Important Watches: Part I
Important Watches: Part I
Property from a distinguished Texan collector
Breitling
Chronomat, Ref. 769 Pink gold chronograph wristwatch with two-tone dial Circa 1945 | 百年靈 769型號「Chronomat」粉紅金計時腕錶，年份約1945
Auction Closed
May 11, 01:00 PM GMT
Estimate
5,000 - 10,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Property from a distinguished Texan collector
Breitling
Chronomat, Ref. 769
Pink gold chronograph wristwatch with two-tone dial
Circa 1945
百年靈 769型號「Chronomat」粉紅金計時腕錶，年份約1945
Dial: silvered, two-tone
Calibre: manual winding, 17 jewels
Case: 18k pink gold, snap-on back
Case number: 666'259
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: dial and movement
Box: yes
Papers: no
Accessories: Breitling presentation case
The integrated slide-rule function has been an iconic design of Breitling’s aviation watches since 1942. Although best known as part of the Navitimer, it was actually the Chronomat that featured the first application of the calculating device.
The name 'Chronomat' comes from the combination of the two words: chronograph (chrono) and mathematics (mat). The slide rule, at its simplest, is basically a mini-calculator on the watch, allowing the wearer to quickly go through various calculations by simply turning the bezel. The slide rule can determine anything from simple multiplication and division to measuring the distance of a climb or descent, both of which are very useful for a pilot.
The present example has been retained in very attractive condition with extremely sharp lugs and crisp engravings, as well as with a nicely preserved dial.
The name 'Chronomat' comes from the combination of the two words: chronograph (chrono) and mathematics (mat). The slide rule, at its simplest, is basically a mini-calculator on the watch, allowing the wearer to quickly go through various calculations by simply turning the bezel. The slide rule can determine anything from simple multiplication and division to measuring the distance of a climb or descent, both of which are very useful for a pilot.
The present example has been retained in very attractive condition with extremely sharp lugs and crisp engravings, as well as with a nicely preserved dial.