1969 Breitling Navitimer Ref. 806 'Big Eyes' dial Unpolished

In the early 1950s, Breitling recognized the need for a watch that could assist pilots in performing complex calculations in-flight, such as fuel consumption, distance, and speed. To meet these needs, Breitling partnered with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), a group that represented general aviation pilots in the U.S. The collaboration helped the brand create the first Navitimer in 1954.

 

The Navitimer 806 was the original reference of this watch. It featured a sliding rule on the bezel, a circular scale designed to help pilots perform essential calculations without the need for additional tools. The watch combined these features with a chronograph, allowing for the recording of time over various intervals, another crucial function for aviators.

 

The design of the watch was bold and functional, with a distinctive black dial and contrasting white sub-dials, giving it a clean yet technical look. The AOPA logo appeared on the dial, underscoring its association with aviation. However, in 1965, Breitling replaced the AOPA logo with the "twin jet" logo, which depicted two aircraft flying in formation. This change marked a shift in the branding strategy, although the watch itself retained its status as a premium pilot's tool. The "twin jet" logo continued to be used on the Navitimer for many years thereafter.

 

Except for a few rare early models powered by the Valjoux 72, the Breitling Navitimer 806 was typically fitted with the highly regarded 17-jewel Venus 178 movement until production ended around 1972-1973. Interestingly, the Venus 178 was discontinued in 1966, which suggests that Breitling had a significant stockpile of the movement.

 

The Navitimer 806 was made in several variations, including stainless steel, gold, and gold-plated versions.

 

There is a version of the Breitling Navitimer 806 known as the "Big Eye". This variant, which appeared in the late 1960s, is distinguished by its larger sub-dials, making the chronograph functions easier to read. The size of these sub-dials earned it the nickname "Big Eye".

 

This particular version is highly sought after by collectors due to its unique design and its place in the history of the Navitimer series.

 

In 2019, Breitling released a re-edition of the Navitimer 806, bringing the original design back to life with updated technology while maintaining the watch’s historical appeal.

Offered for sale here is Breitling Navitimer Ref. 803 with ‘Big Eye’ dial from circa 1969.

 

The third generation ‘Big Eye’ dial features the numbers 10 and 60 in red remains in great condition, with a deep black glossy dial and white or ‘reverse panda’ subregisters. It shows only light signs of wear. The original and untouched lume hour markers show a dark yellow patina hue. The original hands have aged a few shades lighter. Both dial and hands react to UV at the same pace.

 

The stainless steel case remains unpolished, featuring thick and with very sharp edges. This is extremely important when collecting such pieces as the case lugs have many case facets. It shows normal signs of wear for its age. The case back remains in the same condition. The bezel is also preserved with sharp edges.

 

The original flat, acrylic crystal remains in great shape with only minor marks that could be easily buffed away.

 

The watch is running well and keeping time, although service history is unknown.

 

It comes suited on an original Breitling handmade leather strap with Breitling stainless steel buckle.

 

Macros of dial and case are available under request.