THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: BREITLING
MODEL: 806
YEAR: 1966
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 41mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: MANUAL WIND

By now, it’s hardly a secret that we love vintage Navitimers here at Falco. They are among the most unique, beautiful, and historically important watches of the mid-century period, yet remain somewhat overlooked in today’s market compared to other vintage sports chronographs from brands like Heuer, Rolex, and Omega.

Originally developed in 1952, the earliest Navitimers were produced exclusively for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). These early models were powered by the renowned Valjoux 72 movement and featured an all-black dial with the AOPA logo. Produced for only a year, these so-called “pre-806” models are as rare as hen’s teeth. In 1956, Breitling introduced the reference 806, now powered by the Venus 178 movement: a configuration that would remain in use until the early 1970s.

The present example dates to 1966 and features a “reverse panda” dial, milled-edge bezel, and “twin-jet” layout—arguably the most iconic and recognisable iteration of the Navitimer. However, instead of the more commonly seen stainless steel case with a black and white dial, this watch features a rare 18K gold-capped case paired with a black gilt dial, and it's glorious.

The case have remained untouched throughout its life, with extensive oxidation to the gold that we love to see. The small-eye “twin-jet” dial complements the gold-capped case beautifully: the gilt printing remains sharp, the tritium lume has aged to a rich creamy hue, and the subdials have developed a deep champagne tone. There are some marks present on the subdials and bezel.

The watch has recently been serviced and is running beautifully at +3 s/d, 282 amplitude, with a 0.2 ms beat error. Celebrating its sixtieth birthday this year, this lovely 806 is looking good as ever.