On May 24th 1962, astronaut Scott Carpenter orbited the Earth three times aboard the Aurora 7 space capsule. Accompanying him on his mission was a Breitling Navitimer equipped with a 24 hour scale. This watch was later released to honor this great achievement for both man and horology. For 2013, Breitling gave this watch a face lift and unveiled the Navitimer Cosmonaute Black Steel Limited Edition.
This model comes in a limited numbered series of 1000 pieces over Breitling’s vast distribution network of more than 300 point of sales. The case comes in stainless steel, which is treated with carbon to produce the brand’s patented Black Steel. The case also features a 43mm diameter and rides high on the wrist with a case height of 13.85mm. The main crown is of the push/pull variety and carries two gaskets, which maintain the water resistance of 30 meters (3 ATM) on this watch. The iconic notched bidirectional bezel operates the slide rule which is located on the flange or internal bezel.
The circular slide rule is featured an all Breitling Navitimer models and are used by aeronautical professionals to calculate any rule of three equation. Slide rules first entered Breitling’s designs back in 1942 but are best known for their presence on the original Navitimer, which is the world’s oldest chronograph still in production.
The main feature on the dial remains the 24 hour graduated scale which is important in space exploration as the difference between night and day is paramount. All of the chronograph subdials feature a red indicator, inclusive of the small seconds counter at 9 o’clock. This chronograph can time events up to 12 hours. Breitling uses Super-LumiNova to maintain readability in the depths of outer space. At the 4:30 position resides a neat date aperture.
Running this precise timepiece is an in house made manual wound mechanical movement Calibre 02. This movement carries a power reserve of 70 hours and it alternates at an incessant 28,800 VpH (4 Hz). The Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute Black Steel Limited Edition is outfitted with an Ocean Racer black rubber strap, and is secured with a Black Steel folding clasp. This model like all other Breitling watches enjoys a two year international guarantee.
