Breitling, a brand synonymous with aviation watches, has a long and illustrious history of creating timepieces that are both functional and stylish. From the iconic Navitimer to the Superocean,
Breitling watches have been trusted by pilots and adventurers for decades. The Breitling Aerospace B70 Orbiter is the latest addition to the brand's Professional collection, and it is a watch that is sure to appeal to those who appreciate both history and innovation.
The Aerospace B70 Orbiter was created to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the first non-stop balloon circumnavigation of the globe. In 1999, Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones embarked on a daring mission in a balloon called the Breitling Orbiter 3. The balloon defied harsh weather conditions and traveled for 19 days, 21 hours, and 47 minutes, covering 45,633 kilometers before landing in the Egyptian desert. This incredible feat of human achievement was a testament to the power of innovation and the courage of the explorers.
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The Breitling Aerospace B70 Orbiter is a fitting tribute to this historic flight. The watch features a number of design elements that are inspired by the Breitling Orbiter 3 balloon. The most striking of these is the watch's vibrant orange dial, which mirrors the color of the balloon's capsule. The dial is also adorned with the mission logo, adding a touch of history to the timepiece.
But the Breitling Aerospace B70 Orbiter is more than just a pretty face. The watch is also packed with features that make it a valuable tool for pilots and adventurers. The watch is housed in a lightweight titanium case that is both strong and comfortable to wear. The titanium caseback is engraved with a special inscription that commemorates the Breitling Orbiter 3 mission.
One of the most impressive features of the Breitling Aerospace B70 Orbiter is its movement. The watch is powered by the Breitling Manufacture Caliber B70, a COSC-certified SuperQuartz™ movement that is ten times more accurate than standard quartz movements. This movement provides the watch with a wide range of functions, including a 1/100th of a second chronograph, a countdown timer, a second timezone, two alarms, a lap function, and a perpetual calendar.
At the core of the Aerospace B70 Orbiter lies the Breitling Manufacture Caliber B70. This isn't just any quartz movement; it's a highly advanced SuperQuartz™ mechanism. Being COSC-certified means it's been rigorously tested for precision, guaranteeing an incredible accuracy that is ten times greater than regular quartz movements.
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But what does this mean in practical terms? Imagine you're a pilot timing a crucial maneuver, or a world traveler keeping track of different time zones. The Aerospace B70 Orbiter won't just keep time—it will measure it with unparalleled precision.
This caliber also powers an impressive array of features that put the Aerospace B70 Orbiter in a class of its own:
1/100th Second Chronograph: Measure even the most fleeting moments with precision, whether timing laps on a track or split-second decisions in the cockpit. It also includes flyback functionality, allowing for immediate resetting of the chronograph without needing to stop it first.
Countdown Timer: This invaluable tool counts down from a preset time, ideal for timing approaches, fuel calculations, or even the perfect pasta cooking time outside of adventures.
Second Timezone (UTC): Keep track of two time zones simultaneously, a must-have feature for any globe-trotter or pilot navigating multiple time zones.
Two Alarms: Set reminders with distinct tones, ensuring you never miss a critical moment, no matter where in the world you find yourself.
Lap Function: This allows for measuring intermediate times within longer sequences, making it a great tool for athletic training or analyzing any complex task with multiple stages.
Perpetual Calendar: The perpetual calendar automatically adjusts for leap years and varying month lengths. You won't need to fiddle with date settings for years to come.
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Beyond its technical prowess, the Aerospace B70 Orbiter boasts a design that exudes both purpose and spirit. The lightweight titanium case, paired with your choice of either a matching titanium bracelet or sporty black rubber strap, makes it a pleasure to wear even on the longest expeditions.
Visually, the watch is a feast for the eyes. The fiery orange dial, a nod to the iconic balloon, is both eye-catching and functional. It ensures maximum legibility in all conditions, day or night. The combination of analog and digital displays might seem complex at first glance, but Breitling's masterful design keeps everything intuitive. All critical information is easy to access and interpret at a moment's notice.
Finally, the true pièce de résistance lies in the transparent caseback. Here you'll find a genuine fragment of the original Breitling Orbiter 3 balloon. It's a constant reminder of the daring spirit this watch embodies and a connection to a piece of aviation history.
The Aerospace B70 Orbiter holds a significant place within Breitling's extensive catalog. It's part of the Professional collection, timepieces renowned for their functionality and ruggedness. While the Navitimer might be the most recognizable Breitling, the Aerospace has its own dedicated following among pilots and enthusiasts, drawn to its electronic movement and feature-rich design.
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Is the Aerospace B70 Orbiter Right for You? This watch is perfect for those who:
Demand Precision: If split-second accuracy is essential to your pursuits, few watches can rival the Aerospace B70 Orbiter.
Crave Functionality: With its breadth of features, it's a genuine multi-tool for your wrist, ready to tackle timing challenges in the air, on land, or at sea.
Admire Bold Design: The Aerospace isn't subtle, it's an instrument of purpose, and its vibrant colors and capable feel speak to that directly.
Appreciate History: Wearing a piece of the iconic Orbiter 3 balloon is a unique way to connect with a significant moment in aeronautical achievement.
Courtesy of Breitling
The Breitling Aerospace B70 Orbiter is an exceptional timepiece, honoring a historic journey and offering a blend of precision, functionality, and adventurous spirit that is hard to find elsewhere.