The Most Popular In Breitling – The Navitimer, Colt, And Avenger

Tool watches have always had a special place in the watchmaking industry. They have played important roles in shaping modern civilization as we know it. Not only that but in their own way, tool watches have symbolized human excellence many a time. Be it crossing the English Channel, flying across the Atlantic, conquering Mount Everest, visiting the deepest pits of the ocean, or fighting in the most gruesome war that ever took place, tool watches have always signified human valour and courage.

That being said, tool watches of today like the Breitling Navitimer and Chronomat are in a different segment altogether. Although these timepieces do take cues from their legendary ancestors, the present day scenario tool watches are more of fashion accessories than indispensable devices. Nonetheless, they use the same design codes and are equally brilliant as they were half a century ago. Breitling, for one, is a brand that has successfully made this transition. In this discussion, we will go a little deeper and discover some of Breitling’s most popular luxury tool watches.

Breitling Navitimer

Breitling Navitimer is globally known as one of the best aviation watches ever to be made. It was introduced in 1952 in a post-war world and ever since it has managed to hold its ground. The watch is especially known for its famous slide rule bezel that was initially built for the Chronomat for advanced mathematical calculations. Today, this timepiece is available in various iterations and variations. The Navitimer is also a true icon of watchmaking excellence that stands proud in the booming Haute Horlogerie industry.

Breitling Colt

The Breitling Colt is a collection that resonates military style and functionality. The origins of the watch indicate that it was made for armed forces to assist them in harsh conditions. This can be clearly seen in the watch’s overall appearance and built. That being said, the iconic rider tabs on the bezel that were actually added for increased functionality, add a little bit of panache as well.

Breitling Avenger

The Breitling Avenger is a sight to behold. It is bold, stout, and massive. Perhaps the most impressive quality of the watch is its sheer size and masculine vibe. The timepiece was reinvented in 2013 and renamed Avenger II. This re-issue consisted of two chronographs in different sizes, a professional diver’s watch, a timepiece with GMT function, and finally, the Breitling Avenger II Blackbird.

Breitling is home to many other watches that are worth your appreciation. Some honourable mentions are the Chronomat, Superocean Heritage, and Aerospace Evo collections. In conclusion, tool watches will always be an integral part of the brand's identity and the way it approaches matchmaking.

Cartier Tank: A Short Stroll Through History

Cartier has been in the luxury goods industry longer than most of its counterparts. Through years of work and persistence, the brand has established itself as a stalwart in the business. Cartier started off as a jeweller and soon began its watchmaking business. Before anyone knew, it ended up making the first men’s wristwatch ever known. And not for a second think that Cartier left any stones unturned. In an era where marketing was still an idea yet to be born, Cartier made globally renowned inventor/aviator Alberto Santos Dumont endorse its watch.

The watch we will be pondering upon here today, however, is the Cartier Tank. The most successful watch in the history of the brand is the way it is for a reason. The watch exudes class beyond measure. In addition to that, it is widely characterized as a unisex watch. Not that it really matters in the times we live today. You know, feminism and stuff.

Over the years, Cartier has had various versions of the Tank made. Most of these gems made an impact in the Haute Horlogerie industry, while some attained legendary statuses.

Origins

The Cartier Tank saw the light in 1917 when the idea of a watch that celebrated the formidable war machines from the First World War came to mind. The first tank was a simple yet classy rectangular watch with a leather strap. It had nothing fancy about it, and perhaps that is what made it so appealing. Today, one of the most sought after Tank timepieces is the Cartier Tank Anglaise. It is different in many ways than its ancestor, but somewhere down the line it still radiates the same energy.

Popularity

The watch has experienced unprecedented popularity since its inception. There is no particular reason for it, except for the fact that it belongs to a ‘Maison’ that is known for its excellence in luxury goods. For instance, when Tank Americaine was launched, the collection already had a stern grip on the markets. The Cartier Tank MC is another fine example of what the horologist is capable of. The watch was the first Tank reference to be delivered with a manufacture calibre.

Surviving The Quartz Crisis

When the oppression from the East started affecting manufacturers in Switzerland, there seemed no way out. Despite the fightback, it took a good couple of decades for the Swiss watch markets to return to their long lost glory. One brand, however, had different ideas. We all know Cartier also has a background in jewels, which obviously did help it out during this period of turmoil. The other reason for its survival was the ability adapt. The result was the Cartier Tank Solo, a Quartz powered watch that was launched in 2004.

Business is usually a tricky task and determining one’s future is near to impossible. Nevertheless, as it seems, Cartier has done the impossible. It has not only cemented itself in the industry but has managed to do it at the very top.