Breitling Chronomat Ref. B13050 automatic 39 mm circa 2000

A legendary chronograph

In 1984, Breitling's 100th anniversary was fast approaching, and the president at the time, Ernest Schneider, wanted to mark this memorable occasion! Indeed, since its inception, the brand has been known for its chronographs, which have set the standard for the industry. Breitling timepieces were coveted by sports enthusiasts, athletes and aviation pioneers. The brand never ceased to rethink and optimize its watches, creating numerous patents, some of which are still in use today. It was therefore necessary to launch a new watch that would revolutionize the industry and bring the mechanical chronograph back to center stage, proving that it is still capable of attracting a casual and trendy clientele.

It's worth remembering that at the time, the trend was for flat watches giving only the time, and mainly powered by quartz movements. Ernest Schneider's decision to launch an imposing mechanical chronograph was a bold one. The watch had to embody the brand's philosophy to perfection. It was decided to take the Frecce Tricolori chronograph as the perfect starting point. It was a resounding success, from sportsmen to businessmen, from actors to jet-setters, everyone wore the Chronomat and appreciated its sporty-chic look that really set it apart from the competition of the time.

A little vintage touch that makes all the difference on the wrist in terms of style!

What you need to know

The Chronomat we present today is one of the last truly retro models in this collection launched in the 1980s. With its straight lugs, slim proportions and charmingly retro two-tone aesthetic, this watch sends us straight back to the 90s with its sporty-chic style. Since its launch, the Chronomat collection has been best known for Breitling's signature ratcheting bezel, with its four protruding “riders”. This look was designed to help pilots grasp the bezel more easily when wearing gloves, and also protect its sapphire crystal.

As for the details: on the wrist, the watch measures 40.5 mm by 15 mm, its steel case in very good condition is embellished with gold screws, a domed crown surrounded by a crown protector and a pair of matching rounded pushers. The dial, like the case, has a distinct retro appeal.

Fittingly, this declination features a rare black “guilloché” dial in the center, with gorgeous gold sub-dials! Very few models have been released in this version.

The 6-9-12 vertical chronograph configuration and date at 3 o'clock is a no-brainer for watch enthusiasts! Indeed, the Breitling 13 automatic caliber, based on the famous ETA 7750, offers renowned reliability that will defy the tests of time for many decades to come.

The package

This Breitling watch is in excellent condition and works perfectly. It will be delivered with its bakelite case. For a perfect look, we've fitted it with a new Breitling leather strap mounted on a pin buckle. It has been authenticated and checked by our watchmakers, and as such benefits from the Lepage Vintage 1-year warranty.