Why So Underrated? The Breitling Navitimer: 9 Things You Need To Know

When it comes to luxury chronographs, why do the Rolex Daytona and Omega Speedmaster get all the attention? The Breitling Navitimer predates both, and in many ways has a far more illustrious history of impressive innovations and often overlooked accomplishments.
Why then is the Navitimer so underrated? And what makes it so special? Why am I so fascinated by them and eager to collect them over other iconic chronographs? And with such a profoundly important legacy behind the Navitimer, why is it far better value and more affordable than its rivals from Omega and Rolex?
Today I take an in-depth look at 9 crucial things every watch enthusiast should know about one of my most beloved Swiss chronographs. From being chosen as "the" pilot watch by the AOPA, to its adventures in space, world-changing design, trendsetting features, famous wearers, and even some bizarre moments in the brand's darkest days, this video is essential Gentry viewing for any watch lover out there.
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[@gcf7175]

TGV's editing skills are next level.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much 🙏🙏 Best regards, TGV

[@najk]

Is TGV really editing all by himself?

[@larsstougaard7097]

@@najk maybe 🤔

[@TechnoLawyer]

@@najk He is. He's a professional video editor for his "real" job. That I know, because he's said it. What I don't know is whether KZbin got him into video editing or whether he was a video editor who got into filming for KZbin.

[@AK-rq1cz]

I'm never going to buy this watch, but I can listen to you tell me the history of any watch all day. Your production quality and narration is off the charts.

[@dhn1337]

It’scrazy how much interest you can get in a watch that I had no interest in before with a good story and history.

[@PatagonianWarrior]

never say never...

[@simoncrooke1644]

I love these 'history of the watch' reviews TGV. No one, that I've come across, really does this better than you. An excellent watch and beautifully finished but too busy for my old eyes.

[@oscarosullivan4513]

Think it is better than reviews

[@simoncrooke1644]

@@oscarosullivan4513 Yeah, I wasn't sure what else to call it. It isn't really a review, more a watch history lesson.

[@oscarosullivan4513]

@@simoncrooke1644 I remeber the this $395 titanium pilots watch is the best era. Watchbox era was his Phil Collins era

[@TheCameltotem]

Ahh the Breitling Navitimer! You know I actually never cared about watches until one day when I was at an airport and I saw this ad with Travolta and the Navitimer. I was starstruck, how is it possible a watch can look THAT good!? I didn't even knew what it cost but what I did knew was that I must have it. It took me some years of saving but oh boy oh boy was it worth it. I had it for two years now and to this very day I still smile whenever I look down at it. An absolute icon that brings me a lot of joy!

[@ashleysmith89]

I love my Sinn 903 and appreciate your segment discussing its place in the Navitimer's history.

[@clydewakefield7349]

One of my first "big" watch purchases was my Breitling Old Navitimer II and it hasn't left my collection since 😀. Such a unique piece and conversation starter. Great video as always TGV

[@chronocommander007]

The Navitimer is my number one chronograph of all time. I'm especially partial to the Cosmonaute Blacksteel. Thanks for the presentation!

[@OrinVII]

Just recieved my Navitimer (AB0120) and I cannot put into words how humbled I am to own this beautiful timepiece. Thanks for this video bro! Keep up the great work!!!

[@jayammons3834]

“Will I ever use these complications?” “That’s not the point!” ❤️

[@SchizoFenikChannel]

Bought the blue A23322 last year and have not looked back. The fact that so many people dislike the Navitimer makes me love it even more. Great video celebrating a true icon!

[@iksanderrr]

My favourite watch. I inherited my grandfather's version and recently got it serviced by Breitling. Lovely watch in my opinion.

[@fsilletta]

The Navitimer is how I found your page! I wanted to get my first luxury watch to mark my son's birth. A friend's store had a used rattrapante 45 for sale, and I loved the look of it. I turned to KZbin for reviews,and yours was the first link. I have been wearing it almost every day since. The perfect everyday watch imo.

[@peterkull8354]

Whow, a Rattrapante as an every day watch 👍

[@raoufrumjaun8356]

I worked for a mortgage broker whilst studying for my law degree: they gave us little bonuses every month if we hit our targets; I didn't spend a single penny of it as it all went into the watch fund which ended with my beloved Navitimer purchase. That was 16 years ago and the Navi was something I'd coveted since the early 90s. Great video to an even greater watch!

[@TomasWatchReviews]

what a beautiful watch. One of those things where you don't need a phone when you sit on the toilet, the watch on the wrist is enough to keep you captivated :D

[@TinTin-ov6cg]

You are indeed correct, I find myself just staring at mine and admiring it or fiddling with the bezel..lovely watch!

[@jezg084]

I own a 1962 Navitimer 806 AOPA dial. Absolutely amazing watch and by far my favourite in my collection. Only issue is the radium paint on the markers :(

[@neoneu5702]

I always loved the Navitimer, it's definitely one of my 3 grail watches next to the Explorer I and the Lange Zeitwerk

[@davidmcclain8851]

I love the Navitimer, it is highly underrated. I have a World but I really want one with the B01 movement. I have a Transocean with that movement and absolutely love it. I love what Breitling has been doing over the last few years under George Kern.

[@jacobelx5841]

I remember seeing huge displays of Navitimer hung at the biggest mall in town when I was a teenager and it has been the no. 1 iconic luxury watch to me ever since. I never thought twice about getting it as my very first luxury timepiece when I grew up to afford one. While my Speedy and SeaD are “acquired” tastes the Navitimer was 100% pure love at first sight. If I could save only one watch from fire today it will be the Navitimer. (Btw mine is a limited edition from 2014)

[@americanlegendswatches]

I was just at an AD yesterday seeing some navitimers in person. I have to say the Breitling collection stood out more for its beauty than the other collections the jeweler had--omega, tudor, etc.

[@zillsburyy1]

i wonder if TGV secretly loves his SEIKO FLIGHTY more

[@henkvandebeek7921]

I thought the same myself!

[@gaidinkamei8462]

He does, watch his past videos.

[@DeadlyMuffinCat]

Just wanted to say I very much appreciate the quality of your videos and all the editing work that goes into them. This video has such a professional documentary quality to it. I very much appreciate your attention to detail and find these videos that are rich with history such a wonderful thing to watch as I unwind after a day of work. Thank you for helping expand my Horological knowledge as a relatively new comer in collecting watches. Cheers!

[@cubex68]

Navitimer was my grail before TGV made a video on his blue dial Navitimer severed years ago. I was fortunate to acquire my A23322 a few years ago and it’s still the favorite watch in my collection:)

[@williambrady7135]

I love diver and pilot watches, and I'm always drawn to a blue watch face.

[@Ossory88]

Ok.

[@stevepapa]

My Koumbaro picked up a Navitimer and I can't wait to review it!

[@theurbangentry]

Niiiiice, I look forward to hearing your thoughts on them. Thank you Steve, enjoy! Best regards, TGV

[@luke003d]

Definitely an interesting watch

[@ALPHADUNIT]

Woah can't wait for that

[@bingerslaroo2249]

I have to be honest, the navi isn't a watch for me, however after watching this and understanding more of the history behind it I do appreciate the watch and the role it has played.

[@Ed-ig7fj]

B.L., like the rest of us, you are learning about watches, and that is great. We don't need to buy them all!

[@Alias_Anybody]

I'd say it's a) because Breitling just doesn't have the same level of prestige (any more) and b) just because it's so incredibly busy compared to a speedmaster. Like, the Citizen Nighthawk for example is also controversial.

[@jimlittle5769]

This is exactly why.

[@Bemjji]

Yea I’ve tried on a Navitimer and I love it, but to a non watch person it looks ridiculous.

[@jimlittle5769]

@@Bemjji I think even some watch people find it to be too busy. I know I do.

[@larsstougaard7097]

I agree the whole way from point a to point b 👍

[@peterkull8354]

For me it´s a bit watch porn. Just toooo much of the good thing , But I like it - especially this crazy 24 hour dial.

[@Ishabu7]

Thank you TGV for another great video! I love the Breitling Navitimer! Thank you again! Stay healthy and well! Nick.

[@garethsigrist8714]

I’ve got such a soft spot for the Navitiner. It’s easy to forget that Breitling were such innovators and were the first to settle on the layout of the chronograph which has become the accepted standard. I’m a life long rock n roller and always associated the Navitimer with Slash who is the guitarist for Guns n Roses. It was only later when I got into watches that I looked again and realised it wasn’t a Navitimer at all but a Chronomat! Another fantastic show, as always 👏👏👏👏

[@cmnderbob]

Awesome as always, thank you TGV. You're the best.

[@kennethMblake]

Looking forward to hearing how the Navitimer is worth being on the grail list. I was just watching, TGV, some of your older videos and I must say that your presentation has evolved considerably. The neon intro is reflective of the era that we grew up in (yay 90s). I must say that I love the nostalgic touch (I have only watched one minute and I'm already gushing!). In short: great intro, good sir!

[@michaelgeorge1469]

One of my favorite watches in my collection. Thanks for video!

[@goldtoothjacko]

T, A wonderful insight into this iconic watch. Superb my friend. Best as always . Matthew

[@alvinmick218]

Terrific video! I especially appreciated the history of the navitimer and I definitely love the look of it.

[@ORflycaster]

Another great history lesson TGV, thank you! They’re always so well researched, written and produced. I could watch them almost continuously.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much! Best regards, TGV

[@davidmichienzi101]

Love the Navitimer, last time I was in New York I went to the breitling shop at Maceys just to see it first hand👍☺😊

[@michaelriera6277]

Hah!!! I did the same at Macy’s Herald Square store.

[@trwilliams22]

Thanks, TGV! As always, fun and informative.

[@lndyrd]

love TGV's videos that cover the history of the watch with content. A lot of other videos might talk about history while showing the watch beautifully spinning in macro shots, but few bother to dig up the articles, posters, movie content relating to the watch. His videos provoke a feeling in me, the first video i watched from him that I watched many times was the one on Seiko watches and their nicknames

[@kevinwagner4076]

Your channel rules!!! Pure class, intelligence, and respect- the way society used to be. Former Astoria Queens resident here, when I was a kid in the 60’s the Bulova building was just off the grand central across from La Guardia and it has fueled my love for horological history , so does your channel- thank you Tristan!!!!!

[@Robert-yp9fn]

I left Philly 25 years ago and I miss it so much. I know every where you film and it reminds me of home. God Bless love your channel. Cheers

[@Roberto68n]

12:39 oh! I missed that splash down!!! Hahaaa… Greetings from San Juan, Puerto Rico.

[@fapulousboy3228]

Great Video, always stunned by the beautiful intros of yours, masterpiece in of its self everytime.

[@mattys1467]

Great to watch, thank you. The Navitimer is my next grail purchase and I want to get it right. Your input is so helpful.

[@aminutewithbourbon]

Another great video. Love to watch videos about watches and not hype like a lot on youtube lately. Thank you.

[@mikefleissner4415]

Thanks.I only knew how much you like yours.I have been drawn to it ever since.now I understand.cheers

[@daiprice7967]

I have a Navi and it was my grail. In love with the watch. Ref AB0121 all blue dial limited edition. Decided to go for it and buy the watch after becoming a fan of the channel and learning more. Brilliant content as always TGV. 👌😊

[@modmod392]

Amazing content…..so well researched and constructed. 👍Thank you.

[@waltppk]

I've been on a serious Kurt Russell deep dive lately. Criminally underrated and everything he's in is elevated with his presence. Very cool guy wears a very cool watch. Also got to see Miles Davis once in the 80's. Genius.

[@ultraluxeest1991]

Great video as always TGV, your intro is perfect now! I love this watch, After I have the Fortis Amadee-20 I think this is one of my next ones. That shirt screams 80s/90s, I like it! Keep it up mate.

[@fransker13]

You forgot Jerry Seinfeld! He wears Navitimers and Chronomats constantly

[@vincentcaruso5084]

Yes!! I remember seeing his chronomat even back in the Seinfeld show

[@fransker13]

@@vincentcaruso5084 with the rouleau bracelet

[@davidbutgerei8156]

Excellent as always. I appreciate the history and education. Engaging throughout Chap.

[@DustandPiers]

Well, great. Now I need a blue Navi. Excellent video - learned a ton about Breitling!

[@nodarikirtadze8220]

Maan, I loved it. TGV your videos are a therapy

[@alexthomson7465]

Never been a Breitling fan so wasn't really in a rush to watch this. Now I have.. I want a Breitling cosmonaught! As usual your content is such high quality! Really great vid! Cheers

[@julianmoss19]

Nice one TGV! Another great video. Thank you!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Julian, this one was really from the heart. Best regards, TGV

[@alvin9007]

Very informative as always. Thanks TGV

[@henkvandebeek7921]

Pure class and so nice to have a watch video again that’s not all about this current hype going on. Great video as always TGV

[@DaveMGmovies]

Fantastic round-up TGV. I learned a great deal. I'm one of those who feel the dial is too busy ... but that's just me. Still a brilliant timepiece.

[@daviegoodtimes]

Love my Breitling B-2. Navitimer dial but with 100m wr and a chunkier modern brushed steel case. Rotating bezel too

[@andyperez343]

Your admiration for the Navitimer is infectious! I just received my Navitimer World (A23422 - purchased on Ebay from a seller in Japan - sound familiar?). I opted for this variant because I wanted the additional GMT complication and preferred the dial layout with the sub-registers at the 6, 9 and 12 positions and the winged Breitling logo at the 3 o'clock. It also came with the beautiful Breitling black leather strap. Thanks very much for your fantastic videos - much appreciated!

[@dustindodge5974]

Always love any video about the navitimer!

[@FixedByDuncan]

Sublime Editing TGV, you have a talent for creating beautiful visuals!.

[@res00xua]

I am thankful that you promote many positive things in addition to watches.

[@BLR653]

Thoroughly researched and very informative. Gave me a lot more respect for the brand. I’ve always preferred the Speedmaster but the Navitimer is beautiful too.

[@alexm2113]

The Navi is a watch that I love to admire from afar, I've learned. I love seeing it in videos like this, seeing photos of it, etc. But I've had one on my wrist before and in person when I look down at it it's just too busy for me. I think many others are in the same boat.

[@joeltome7546]

Another great video, thank you for sharing.

[@millersx9]

I agree, the Navitimer is an iconic watch. Probably underrated. But after this video perhaps a few will change opinion. I also have a 90ies Cosmonaut, automatic. Love it! Great video as usual, thanks TGV 👍

[@keithh2028]

Refinement and sophisticated looks is what I tend to gravitate towards when it comes to chronographs....the Breitling tends to be a bit flashier and heavier handed than the Speedmaster or even the Daytona....which is not to stay it's a bad piece, it's just a bit more in your face than the Rolex and Omegas usually tend to be. Great video TGV....Blessings and continued success my friend! -Keith

[@alanvarela7861]

Magnificent review, Underrated Legend.

[@bytex666]

I just got my grubby mitts on a never before used 1992 Flightmaster 7T34-6A00, which i know is deep into Navitimer territory, hence I'm browsing through your review history. It's kind of hard to read the tiny numbers since there's SO MUCH crammed into there, but I'm starting to get comfy doing simple maths on it. Looking around for more navitimer tutorials (they're easier to find than flighty tutorials for sure), and here we are. Man, the flightmaster, what a piece of ART this watch is when you study it under good light! Breitlings are roughly 20 times above my budget, so I'm mega happy I landed this old flighty in pristine condition. The flighty is like a navtimer x5, which is both good (even cooler) and bad (less legible)

[@IceDree]

Crushes come and go, but the Navitimer rmeains my holy grail, its been on my mind since I first saw it in a magazine ad some 16 years ago. I'll get one one day. As for what I dislike about it, 3 things. 1. The date complication, I'll never understand manufacturers' fixation on putting dates on Chronographs ... especially 4 o'clock windows. 2. The abysmal 30 meters of water resistance. IMHO a 100 meters should be the standard nowadays. 3. I'm not particularly fond of the current bracelet design. Excellent work like always, TVG. The NATO you designed suits it perfectly.

[@101lorenzo101]

Nice as always TGV, I am interrested in youre idears about Anold & Son.

[@coachgkap]

This is a nice primer for a soon-to-be Breitling owner, those considering a purchase, or those simply intrigued by horology. Well done, mate.

[@marcelobragaserafim3071]

My name is Marcelo, I'm from Brazil and I love watches, especially Chronos from the 60s and 70s of the brands Omega, Breitling, Heuer, Tissot, Seiko, etc. I have a small collection and its star is a Speedy Mark II racing dial. Of the Breitlings my preference would be the ones from the 70s with the 48mm case. Congratulations for the channel and I follow some You Tube channels, both Brazilian and foreign, and yours is one of the best. hug Marcelo

[@ChevyBM]

I love the Navitimer, I got a 1966 Navitimer 806 and a 2014 Navitimer World. It is weird that they are so underrated, I think the old ones will go up in value within some time!

[@jeremycorrao]

Love the Navi!!! Great video my friend! I hope to get a Navi one day. Cheers!

[@uptheorg]

Great video -- I always have looked the other way when the Navitimer came up even though I knew a little of it's iconic status. I would add that even though I don't think he wore a Navitimer, Jerry Seinfeld notably wore Breitlings on his show and still can be seen wearing them occasionally today.

[@saleendriver]

This was my 2nd Grail Watch......inspired to buy the Navitimer by you TGV. I searched for a while to find the right one, and found it in my Navitimer Twin Sixty. It is still my favorite watch in my collection, despite buying other since I got this one. Its gorgeous, its comfortable, and its brilliant. And I love Kurt Russell.

[@theurbangentry]

I was waiting for your comment! As always, I am honored and humbled. I LOVE your Twin Sixty btw, enjoy it my friend. Thank you for the comment and support, it never goes unnoticed. I hope you had a great July 4th. Best regards, TGV

[@saleendriver]

@@theurbangentry Thank you. I had a great 4th, but now am suffering the effects of Hurricane (yes, it became one this evening) Elsa. But we'll get through it. Onwards, upwards. And if you ever need to review a Twin Sixty, let me know.

[@pvelasquezchilet]

I love Navitimers, specially Cosmonaute models, I already have an A12019

[@pmvarnagis]

Not just the best watch channel, the best channel on KZbin, keep up the great work.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much, you just made my day. Onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@jimmccaig7946]

Everyday a school day. Great show. Would love the Sinn variant someday, but a flighty is on my radar. TGV and MWC have swayed me again 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@britannia2129]

A gorgeous watch - I think Breitling has been hurt by the 2000s era of gaudy, oversized design though, perhaps explaining why so many shun them

[@theurbangentry]

I have to agree, they got waaaaay too bing and flashy, I think they are getting back on track now, well, mostly. Thank you my friend, excellent point. Best regards, TGV

[@mdeamicis]

Yup. Rap videos made clunky, sharp lined, ugly watches part of a tacky and gaudy façade that is quite ridiculous IMO. G shock square for life! I just wish the combi bracelet was more prevalent.

[@oscarosullivan4513]

The emergency watch is an example

[@jankay8569]

@@mdeamicis imagine a grown up wearing a plastic watch. grow up

[@michaelriera6277]

Like the Navitimer, the Emergency is a true tool watch designed and made for professionals completing extreme tasks. It was a revolutionary when first introduced for its communications capabilities and robustness.

[@jcm4549]

TGV another very informative well done vid! I’m starting to warm up to Breitling…🥃⌚️

[@hex8387]

Thanks for mentioning Sicura 😍

[@NormanF62]

The civilian version, in the Citizen at0361-06e makes the slide rule less complicated by enabling it to determine a second time zone apart from your local city by reading off the places from where you currently are. What the Bretling Navitiimer was, it wasn’t just the first chronograph and navigational computational aid, it was the first GMT and world time watch. It literally changed the way people saw time and distance and without it, that watch and the Casio World Time digital watch would have been inconceivable. An invention that has been felt everywhere in every day life.

[@peterkull8354]

Nice history behind this time piece. O&W manufactured Navytimers from original Breitling parts too. Got one !

[@der_maschinenraum1066]

I really love my blue dial A23322 - many thanks for your great video 🤵🏻‍♂️🏁

[@bruceleroy8063]

The Rolex and Omega don't make me go cross-eyed. The Breitling feels like I'm looking at tax code lol.

[@michaelriera6277]

Neither Rolex nor Omega have a watch to assist pilots complete mathematical computations. You completely missed the reason for its existence.The Navitimer is designed for very specific purpose. It is an unapologetic tool watch not for everyone.

[@bruceleroy8063]

@@michaelriera6277 Oh I know. My brain can't deal with all the input. Just one of the many reasons I'm not a pilot lol.

[@wfyu9769]

First: Thank You for this video! Second and so on: My Grail mechanical chronograph is... Yes, the Navitimer!.... I love two his versions: All black version of Cosmonaut and all black 12 h version with annual calendar and moon phases. I don't have this model in my collection at the moment, but I have one his version from Casio and I like it so much. I think this chronograph is underrated in shadow of Daytona and Speedmaster. Possible reason, in my opinion, is his water resistance of only, only 30 meters or 3 atmospheres. But for me, in all other functions, he is the best chronograph!

[@jamessymington2466]

Great video and outstanding watch!

[@fernandogaray4382]

I love the intro of your videos and of course the content but the intro is amazing

[@maximilliannapoleon9498]

As a fellow history nerd, that is so awesome that your just holding a Navitimer outside of Independence Hall!! Watches and history are the best, hope you had a great Independencd Day, TGV! Also I hope to visit Philly one day, I’d love to see Independence Hall and tour the sites of the American founding of the East Coast!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Maximillian, I actually filmed it on July 4th, it only felt right! 😉🥂 You should deffo visit, Philly is so special, it strangely reminds me of London, you will love the Society hill area especially. I had an amazing Independence thank you, I hope you did too. Onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@ABeck92]

The Navi and the Explorer are my grails! Fantastic stuff.

[@Madmax-zc2gk]

Love this video and your narration…I purchased a Breitling classic AVI about 8 months ago and unfortunately, it’s been the most inaccurate watch I’ve ever owned… it’s about 4 min slow per month…I took it in for warranty service and the problem is even worse… I’m thinking that I’m going to exchange it for a Navitimer, since owning a Breitling has always been my dream watch to have in my collection… cheers…

[@drcandor]

Totally enjoyable, informative, an impressive presentation too, thnx. . . :>)

[@frankpentangeli7945]

I own a Navitimer Fighters Edition (panda dial) and I love it! After years of collecting, the Navitimer still has one of my all-time favourite watch designs.

[@theurbangentry]

Beautiful piece, I see why you are so enamored. Enjoy and wear it with pride and thank you for the comment. Best regards, TGV

[@soulofjimi]

Saving up for a blue/Arabic numeral dial A23322. Love the size and the color blue of that particular one. Also love the black eyed blue one... Can’t go wrong with the black cosmonaute either though!!

[@KyokushinFighter229]

Nice vid, TGV. I never knew Miles Davis wore a Navi! I always think of Seinfeld when I see this watch.

[@gerrytemple5044]

One of my favourites is actually the Sinn 103 "Fliegeruhr" (grey dial). Did you make a video on that one too already? Anyway, thanks TGV for another brilliant review. Really enjoyed it! 😎👍🏻

[@jimvonkropsberg399]

I love all 3!!!!!!!!! Hanhart, Speedy & Navi & I had the privilege of owning them. Good Stuff!!!!!!

[@ColinZeal01]

I love my B01 Pan Am, couldn’t stop YouTubing it since seeing it at Baselworld in 2019. Was about to buy another model of B01 but at the last moment I realized that the Pan Am was what I’d been craving for almost a year and a half. Love it. Only annoyance is the lack of the wing logo. Next one will be another GS tho, the pinkish Spring one from last year.