We asked Breitling boss Georges Kern to admit what his favourite is

How would you go about choosing your favourite child? Well, that’s pretty much what Andrew made Breitling’s CEO do immediately after meeting him. Georges Kern took over the Breitling brand in 2017 and has since helped remind the watch world why it is one of the most legendary and respected names in watchmaking. After a time when Breitling, like many other brands in the 90s and early 2000s, were moving towards bigger and louder designs, the throughline to Breitling's heritage and roots became more and more vague. As with any good mechanical watch, eventually, an overhaul is needed. So, yes, Andrew got Mr. Kern to pick his favourites. But along the way the duo explore how Kern turned the tides, returning to the roots of the brand in a manner where we have a modern Breitling better informed by the brand's past.
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[@CroRaven84]

Breitling did a total 180 degree turn for the better, many of their new pieces are astonishingly beautiful. Fantastic job!

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Yeah, but you can still get the Breitling V1 Alpha pieces if you want em - the new Night Mission Avenger is total Breitling V1.

[@ItBetterBeFast]

Old ones were better

[@livinLUX88]

Breitling is becoming my favorite watch brand. This dude is really good addition to the company. You can tell he’s doing things with a freshness. Going to find the biggest collector just shows you what this man is really about. Ground work. Connecting with the people.

[@Anton-gx9lh]

I work at a Breitling Boutique and it’s amazing to see more video’s popping up about this amazing brand! Thank you!

[@watchfred3865]

thanks for the kind words; quite a journey indeed. And, quoting Georges: "It's only the beginning!"

[@Timeandtidewatches]

What an honour, @watchfred in the house! You must remember me for many years pre-Kern being a fanboy on your Insta account - so many stunning Breitling models that at that time were gathering dust. Thank you for opening GK's eyes, and giving Breitling this super exciting new lease on life - Andrew

[@aDocandhisWatch]

What a story!! And you’re a legend @watchfred .. this is exactly what brands need to do, learn and listen to their best supporters and collectors 👍🏻 they don’t need to reinvent the wheel, They need to find the best wheel that they already made!! 🙌🏻

[@watchfred3865]

@@aDocandhisWatch thank you!

[@matthewhelm3035]

I really am impressed where George Kern has taken Breitling. Visionary leadership. Outstanding interview. Great job Andrew. Cheers

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Thanks Matthew, much appreciated

[@GeorgesKern-fw8qe]

Thank you Andrew for the great interview and thank you for the nice comments of the/your community here. Merry Christmas to all.

[@AC-mk5ov]

The man himself!! I own quite a lot of watches, Rolex, Omega, Panerai, IWC, etc. But Breitling really holds my heart. From my first Breitling - an older Superocean Steelfish, to the beautiful newer ones I own -- the olive-green new Superocean inspired by the slow motion of the 50's, the beautiful Chronomat GMT, and my favorite Superocean Heritage II in the stunning blue color on a mesh bracelet (though the green you like looks amazing as well).. these are amazing watches. My only hope is to see the creativity continue, and maybe get more of the Kenissi movements across the entire lineup.

[@Makta972]

Man that Superocean heritage is superb. Very elegant

[@KamilOlaf]

Love the longer content. The way Breitling has moved forward in the last couple of years is amazing. I would love to own any of these watches. Great to witness this development.

[@carlmc9775]

The super ocean heritage with the greenface and silver strap is exquisite.

[@mrb317]

This video completely changed my view of Breitling. I am actually going to consider the brand for my next purchase

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Meeting GK changed my view, too. But most of all, that salmon Datora, and then the pistachio chrono, then the Premier line in general, then, then.... - Andrew

[@adeanh1]

THis is a masterclass in how to do Branding correctly. He recognized that Breitling had been insular and then brought in the community. Other brands that did this evenutually became the market leaders (Harley Davidson, Lego).

[@ollik8192]

Fashion or not, you have genuine and top notch watchmaking, engineering and craftsmanship involved here.

[@ArnaudK67]

Great interview Andrew. Less conventional which makes it interesting ! And congrat’s to GK for the Tremendous work they’ve done with his team in only 6 years ! Hats off

[@jamburton]

"TT, amazing video once again! Your content really shines a light on bands that might slip under the radar for collectors and enthusiasts. Keep up the fantastic work, and thanks for consistently delivering insights into the brands!"

[@Timeandtidewatches]

This is so kind, thank you 🙏🏻

[@aDocandhisWatch]

Excellent video!! Big fan of Breitling and Georges Kern 🙌🏻 my favorite Breitling has to be the Navitimer 806 Reissue in red gold. One of my favorite watches, period.. thanks for this wonderful video Andrew 👍🏻👏🏻

[@superfast30]

I wasn't a fan of his work at IWC but he's done a great job at Breitling. Some great releases!

[@thegorn]

Yogic breathing?

[@jimt7292]

He has done a great job since taking over. I love the Colt and wear it as much as any of my higher end watches.

[@michaelriera6277]

Same here . My Marine Blue Colt 41 with the winged Breitling logo and detailed dial will always be a part of mu collection.

[@philc1773]

Me too! My wife bought me a colt chrono a73380 20 years ago! Blue dial on the professional Ii bracelet. It captured my attention then and i consider Breitling my brand. I'm glad he discontinued the Colt and kept the Avenger but in history the Colt and more importantly the Chronomat, saved the company!

[@markriobr]

Bought one on 1995, since had on my wrist leaving the store. It went over some hard and mild times. Surfing,Skiing, diving and more. Well still here next to me, running like when I bought, not a single scratch on the glass, sapphire or any other name people call. The Colt is Breitiling working horse. Have it for a bit over 30 years and and no sign of fatigue. My Chronomat from 88, which was my baby got stolen. Was my second expensive watch and the only one was planned. The first one was a Ferrari bought in a city call Ancona on the Adriatic sea . Was only 22 years old visiting a friend in N Y, went to meet him at his job and go for a happy hour in a special bar. Went him asked the girl at the reception, so walking to his office i Hear. Models have to go to the other direction. Said cool I'm not one.my friend work on this side. She came up to me looked head to toes a few times, and two days later was signing a contract, it happen 8 months before buying my Ferrari. Just like that was making good money and going to Europe back to N Y, home in L A. Was like my dream came true, travelling the world earning real money. Went out to buy a nice coat, went in the boutique paid for it and left. Stop on the corner turn my head when saw the watch, walk to take a good look at it. Liked and went in, asked how much, U$ 950 in 86 was not cheap. A 22 Brazilian with money in his pocket thought, I want got the money pay and lets go, so I did. Did not know never seen a Breitling, if I did a Chono with the leather bracelet and the marks on gold was 450 over. Five months later felt riding my motorcycle, not even a single drop of blood, scratch on me and the bike. When had my arms around to lift it up saw the watch, was a goner. Around 16 months ago was reading one of these comments, a guy was talking like a kid, His watch a Rolex would be at the shop in a couple of days. He paid 60 thou pounds for it, went on saying i know i did the right thing. Much better than buy a Porsche, money well invested. Had to ask him, good happy for you, now tell me how many Porsches do you have and models? I never had one drive my Audi A4, buy a 911 is not a good investment. When you drive out the dealer you just lost 20%, true but you will have lots of fun driving. Are you wearing your watch now? No is in my safe. See people paying millions and for terrible looking watches, tacky. I despise people that pay that much for a tool. I was never too rich bad had my moments, sold a Rolex my father gave me before he passed away. Now never sold the two he had some kind of special feeling for, one is an Omega constellation his father bought before coming back from the II War he fought in Italy, later he gave to my dad. The other a Mido 60 multifort. Sell everything, apartment, paints, car even my socks buy my nice Sailboat and sail away

[@bloodshot6]

Great episode. I went to the Breitling boutique in D.C. It was a great experience. The new Navitimers are amazing. Seeing the dials in person 🔥

[@attila2246]

Breitling definitely on the up. The new Navitimer took my grail and brought it to a new level of beauty. Wearing the reverse panda as one of my dailies and get compliments all the time. Can’t wait to see what Breitling release next.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

🙌

[@brianyee5504]

Beautiful job with the production of this video/ interview with Mr. Kern. I was in the watch business and was always “Rolex centric”. Breitling was never on my radar as a watch brand I could really embrace…until Mr. Kern took the helm. I now have one in my collection and it definitely won’t be my last.

[@darrenc5563]

Since 2022 I have added 3 b01 breitlings to my collection. The boutique experience was my favorite part of the journey.

[@pistonburner6448]

What I'd like to hear him explain is what his long stint with the WEF was all about and what involvement he still has with that organisation and the people involved.

[@17.06.Copper]

Good question as I too want to know. I can tell you that the entire company is set up on SalesForce and that Salesfores is apart of WEF. High chance that the customer data base is being sold in some regards to them for data collection.

[@edwintreffers]

I love Breitling, very nice to see you doing a video on the brand 🥳👍🏻 They do make some really nice watches !!!

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Hard to deny now the diversity is there

[@chubbs1448]

Haha you can tell Andrew is a giddy kid meeting his idol in this video 😂 their mutual passion feeds of each other and it's awesome to watch. I was a fan of Breitling my entire life growing up and just never thought I'd be able to afford one. After some hard work, I was able to graduate law school and was really angling to make that childhood dream a reality. One day, my fiance and I were in a store and a blue Super Ocean chronograph just really spoke to me. Not having ever spent that amount of money on anything before, I wanted to think it over before pulling the trigger. Seeing how much I was in love with the watch, however, my fiance got it for me on the spot as an engagement gift, and it means so much more to me because of it. For the brand to mean so much to me, and then to see it in the passionate hands of Herr Kern just make me feel lime these memories are well taken care of. It feels like they get the gravity of what they're working with and respect it tremendously.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Andrew here, god I was excited in this video - guilty as charged!

[@robertcraigo6394]

Great Video Andrew! You really brought out the George's passion and future for Breitling. Great journalism.

[@racingr3553]

Love this video! Great idea for the top 5. From a proudly Navitimer owner

[@Timeandtidewatches]

And winner of todays contest 🏆

[@Eric_Nielsen]

That was a distinct pleasure to watch. Thank you.

[@andrewd7586]

George Kerns was very forthcoming & accommodating with his love of the brand he represents Andrew. I loved how he knew exactly where his stock was too! And you mate were like a kid in a lollie shop.😍🤤🤣 Fantastic viewing! All the best to you, your family & Marcus & co over Christmas & New Year!👏🏼🍻👍🏼😎

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Appreciate the kind (true) words 🍭

[@mortgagemartin3987]

I have become a huge fan of all these new breitling designs, i do feel the retail price is high but every watch they are currently producing is fantastic, i think they are leading the way.

[@seaweed719]

Can’t wait to see Breitling rising to the next huge brand.

[@cocoyc495]

Love the interior design on Breitling boutiques. Very warm and comfortable ambiance that makes you want to hang out. May other boutiques feel harsh and sterile. Thanks for sharing. Great content as usual.

[@chadlampe4026]

Great vid. Looking forward to the next ones.

[@jeanmr3325]

Can you please tell me where the store is located? Thanks

[@tschoy9388]

A lot of Breitling appeared in Hong Kong TV, I love it. Thank you.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Pleasure

[@thegorn]

A high-pressure gig talking to "the man" but the plucky Aussies pulled it off and delivered a great interview. I've never crushed on that salmon Navi before, but my watch feels are getting all turgid over it now.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

High praise Gorn, thank you man

[@drnick40]

Breitling is one of the fastest growing watch brands. And for a very good reason. Gorgeous watches!

[@FlyinColorz]

Silver dial premier is unbelievable. Such a classic timepiece.

[@respectablylate3081]

Congrats on a very cool episode from Sydney, Australia!

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Aussie Aussie Aussie!

[@youwebz]

Their aviation line(s) need some serious updates but the work they are putting in is paying off.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

They're getting there with the Aviation updates, slowly and surely. Good to see the in-house chrono rolling out.

[@youwebz]

@@Timeandtidewatches agreed. Thanks for a great interview Andrew! I was only at that boutique yesterday evening - wish I had seen you two. As an Airline Pilot currently looking for a new timepiece, it is mildly frustrating to wait for something I will invest in. How can I get a role with them being a consultant / adviser? 🙏 Having said that, the Navitimers are beautiful, GK was great and Andrew your passion and presence is excellent. Onya bloke 🥃

[@redletterl78]

Not been drawn to Breitling designs much (or the price tag!) but the clarity and lighting in this video really showed these watches off brilliantly.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Marcus wins again !

[@joewhite6875]

Yeah Marcus is a legend

[@Anonymouslyme1]

Great episode!

[@followyourpassion8378]

It is incredible, how one man can change a whole brand. I am so happy, that I can still get great Breitling watches, like a K13356, in mint condition on the pre-owned market.

[@michaelriera6277]

Fantastic interview, fantastic brand, love Breitling! I hope Kerns and Partners don’t divert resources and attention away from Breitling towards Universal Geneve.

[@jrlim7615]

Recently attended a Breitling event and was introduced to the navitimer chronograph 46. Stunning looking watch in rose gold and green dial. Am wondering if Breitling will add the GMT function to the Navitimer chronograph 46 sometime in the future? That would make it the perfect travel companion.

[@serifdincer208]

Breitling is killing it lately very nice looking Watches iam thinking of Buying the gmt chronomat in green

[@kongywkelvin]

Marcus killing it with the production value on this video, and hilarious to see Andrew geeking out with GK! Breitling is a great brand and of personal significance to me - I received a B01 Chronomat 44 from my ex-boss when I left the company so there's a whole bunch of emotions linked to it that are difficult to express. Suffice it to say that it reminds me of the value of hard work and the promise of what we can achieve when given the opportunity to do so... Bravo, Breitling!

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Great story man, thank you - and yes, I enjoyed this one! Andrew + Marcus

[@MA89.]

Fantastic interview. Great questions Andrew. Need to take another look at Breitling.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Thank you thank you, GK was very open minded which made it great.

[@jessemaxwell8815]

Such a challenge! And such a good and rapid response. What a wonderful brand and story of the brand.

[@9er..]

Breitling, for me, is a great and amazing journey of fighting the status quo. I’m the first to admit I struggle with the addiction of what’s being fed to me via multiple( 👑 related ) content. It’s almost like politics…I’m being told to care…but deep down….I just don’t give a damn. I guess the number of Breitlings in my collection vs…….( you know who I’m talking about), should speak for itself. Excellent content guys.

[@philc1773]

Great video. I've been a fan for 20 years. Breitling is my watch brand. I have loved what Georges has done but I still maintain my favourite is pre Kern and my 2004 Chronomat Evo b13356 black dial, on the pilot bracelet gets the most wear!

[@Timeandtidewatches]

🙌

[@jonbravo6262]

@andrewmcutchen1738 , You ‘talked’ George on a journey! Great boldness, ENERGY🔥🦘, dapper cravat - ensemble🤩

[@JA-mq9ti]

Breitling is an amazing brand. The superocean heritage ii with the green dial is phenomenal.

[@bcbnewman1]

I am going to buy one just because of spending 16 minutes with the fabulous CEO. Inspiring.

[@greatheartedgadfly]

Breitling are beautiful creations. It is very hard to decide which one I want. There's so many great choices. Nice video.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

🙌 agree, think Premier, but also that bullet bracelet Chronomat

[@robcameron9351]

The silver dial does have a depth to it, very nice.

[@watchound.bernardo9738]

This was a pleasant surprise! Are you back to doing your awesome videos for "Time and Tide"? Noticed fewer uploads lately - don't let the AET shenanigans steal the show. Keep rocking!

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Ha never fear, T+T is my home 🏠

[@andrewmcutchen1738]

This one was a total blast - I have waited a decade to get this meeting, and GK's boldness and openness did not disappoint.

[@adamcrossfire4747]

Way cool! Love where Breitling is heading. They’ve gone from giant watches to being hip, retro, cool. The new Navitimer is the best ever imho

[@impexRQ]

Chronomat absolutely- the best chronograph in todays market

[@williamsmith9561]

This new collection is stunning. They deserve success with it as it's an example of listening to what people want.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Getting @watchfred on board, too. Really good moves.

[@williamsmith9561]

Without a doubt. He's the guy with his finger on the pulse.​@Timeandtidewatches

[@frankmai1824]

I wish they kept the numeral 6,9,12 of the last gen super ocean, just work on the finishing and movement and it would have been perfect.

[@blackmd9]

Andrew you're so anxious during this interview I thought you were going to tackle the man. lol

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Pretty fired up, yes indeed, my first interview with GK - nerve wracking and awesome! Andrew

[@kunalkulkarni8]

We need the Datora in that silver dial!

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Good call

[@irawolf]

Wonderful interview with Mr. Kern. His seeking out of @WatchFred (now following) impressed me greatly. His love of the brand comes through in the enticing improvements made to the entire range. Which brings me to your asking him “which are his favorites” felt unfair to the teams creating the watches. I would have preferred he was asked to “highlight worthy attributes of each line”, and thus their designers and engineers. Parents shouldn’t answer which is their favorite child, right?

[@Timeandtidewatches]

100% but it made for some great candid answers and viewing 🍿

[@tizombie]

Excellent video. Now I want to add a Breitling to my collection.

[@m.charron]

I've got a soft spot for Breitling. I'm glad they're going in the right direction.

[@markmcnamara6743]

My first luxury watch was the chronomat 44 with red dial and silver numbers on a pilot bracelet. Cost just over 2k, as I recall. Biggest mistake I made p/x for another Breitling. Should have waited and kept chronomat 😢 Breitling have some g8 quality watches in their lineup. The only concern is that the prices are becoming top heavy. Great content, though, and will be purchasing the new Superocean UK exclusive. The blue grey dial is awesome 😊

[@Breca]

George seems like a cool guy and I like the new offerings Breitling has to offer. The ladies watches look nice too not pure femme watches.

[@jpaulus1982]

Great video and a great brand!

[@robortski]

Great video. Opened my eyes to new Breitling

[@arshute]

Great video Andrew, really interesting.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Thanks a lot 🙌

[@markbowman7240]

breitling are definitely making steps back to the top watch makers with their new releases of late

[@Timeandtidewatches]

The simplicity of the new offering works - Air / Land / Sea - and the Land watches are the real shots in the arm.

[@markbowman7240]

@Timeandtidewatches a great collection of watches and definitely a shot in the arm for breitling fans , and future owners too

[@Timeandtidewatches]

@@markbowman7240 Andrew here, I so badly want one of the Premier models rn

[@markbowman7240]

@Timeandtidewatches andrew , they are a stunning watch , and the history too makes them stand out 🙌

[@markbowman7240]

the pistachio dial .is really cool ..

[@rickythomson808]

I bought a a limited edition B01 navitimer from 2011,I think it was the first outing for the b01 movement limited to 2 thousand pieces,since then I’ve bought and sold many watches but the navitimer ain’t going nowhere.❤

[@razfan]

this was a great video!

[@Timeandtidewatches]

This is a great comment! Thank you - Andrew

[@jeanmr3325]

@@Timeandtidewatchescan you please tell me where the store is located? Thanks

[@theloniousmonkiv5982]

The Datora is something special, Pure Class! 🥂

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Thicc but still sexy

[@mramed8448]

The silver is stunning, 40mm...perfect 🔥👍

[@justinbuska3499]

Phenomenal content, great video Andrew! As a proud Navitimer owner, and Breitling being my favorite brand I always look at the Morgan Stanley Swiss watch market cap by revenue each year and am always pleased when I see they move up each year since Kern has taken over. Hopefully they can pass IWC this year and jump to #8.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Thanks Justin, wow, this is some proper barracking going on here from the stands!

[@stevens1041]

Breitling was the watch brand in the early 2000s that brought me into this hobby.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

I remember that era well

[@Thelimey]

Just purchased the B70 orange dial it’s awesome

[@darrenc5563]

Glad to know I have a “George kern” Navitimer in my stable!

[@SpaceG95]

George, I have a question for you and Watch Fred. Is there any plans to bring back the vertical register day/date Navitimer? At least for my generation, that is THE most iconic Breitling Navitimer design.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Good question, a little late, will ask it if we can.

[@SpaceG95]

@@Timeandtidewatches thank you! I'm sure you couldn't argue with that question. 😁

[@brentl.vaneaton6901]

Wow what a shop! Cheers

[@zillsburyy1]

thanks andrew great video

[@skieur9723]

It’s about effing time Breitling got back on enthusiasts’ radars! I love my SuperOcean two tone.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

💀

[@masterwatch]

good video, very interesting.

[@saphna2095]

Thank you for this production:) I just wish Mr. Kern wasn't interrupted as much

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Guilty of being a tad overexcited, my apologies - Andrew

[@saphna2095]

this did not escape me and I like it very much!:D@@Timeandtidewatches

[@x201t]

Well done guys 👍

[@Porchia87]

Bring the superocean in 42 in turquoise or the chronomat 40 in mint green..

[@paulgrady4183]

What a really nice guy 👍

[@gerrypickledunnion7386]

The Navitimer is my choice. It's such a fantastic looking watch with a knock out coloured face, but at £7300 its a little out of my price range unfortunately. Great stuff Andrew. ⌚

[@Timeandtidewatches]

🙌

[@Phil-ci3bd]

Nice cravat- definitely setting a trend!

[@anthonyjackson31]

Premier Chronos are the best Breitling's for sure.

[@jackblah5842]

Please ask George to make the Navi GMT in a traveler version.

[@macaulayholgate1086]

Is this an old video you filmed? No Avenger?

[@Timeandtidewatches]

There's an Avenger in the full video I think??

[@macaulayholgate1086]

Nope just a wait and see comment at the end, also did he give a update on the new Aerospace?

[@lihanou]

Obviously avenger isn’t his fav watch 😂😂

[@magnumbrown]

PIck one favorite: * "proceeds to pick 3 from all watch families"

[@Timeandtidewatches]

To be fair, he does choose one in the end haha

[@donaleeesio]

Correction! The true word you intended for your phrase would be "Authentic" not Classic. Cheers

[@davidthom7127]

That man has the patience of a saint. So rude.

[@josephmarucci3528]

Ascot?

[@Timeandtidewatches]

I'm a Londoner now

[@josephmarucci3528]

Good on you Andrew… Cheers from California

[@Timeandtidewatches]

@@josephmarucci3528 ✌

[@bettersteps]

I have a few life rules. One of these rules is to stay away from talking about the income for another person.

[@Timeandtidewatches]

It’s not his income - it’s Breitling’s revenue.

[@bettersteps]

@@Timeandtidewatches "Mr. four-billion dollar man". Give credit to the company and not the man. Friend. ...love the channel and keep up the good work.

[@benguthrie2263]

Why is the focus and lighting so bad???

[@Timeandtidewatches]

Because you need your eyes checked?? Perfectly in focus to my eyes! Thank for watching- Andrew

[@fearnpol4938]

Where did the stereotype of a brietling wearer being a wife beater come from?

[@paulcornwell5581]

Breitling wants you to pay 5000euros for a Sellita SW200.... madness.

[@mikaiyelmiah8538]

Cosc certified.