The original Breitling Chronomat is a classic from 1984, with a distinctive design that—like so many from the era—shows its age today. Fortunately, there is now a contemporary version in the new Chronomat B01, which smartens it up considerably while retaining its key identifying features. These include a bezel with prominent tabs, with the ones at 3 and 9 o’clock being swappable for the user’s choice of counting up or down; and an integrated steel Rouleaux bracelet notable for its tubular links. The result, delivered in a steel 42 mm case, is a refined, cleaner take on the old-school sports watch that has its own place in Breitling’s modern-retro line-up. The in-house automatic chronograph calibre within is COSC-certified and has a power reserve of 70 hours.
The new Chronomat collection includes in a variety of case and dial choices, headlined by an execution with red gold accents that includes the bezel (RM49,900) in a choice of blue and red dial. Those looking for a statement piece will be drawn to the version with a full red gold case (RM83,800) that swaps the bracelet for a rubber strap.
