Brand: Breitling
Model: Navitimer
Reference: 1806
Year: 1970s
Movement: Automatic, Breitling Cal. 11
Case: Stainless steel, round with a rotating bezel
Dimensions: Diameter 48 mm, thickness 13 mm
Dial: Original, black with white sub-dials for the chronograph, tritium (radium) markers and numerals
Functions: Chronograph with sub-dials for seconds (at 3 o'clock) and minutes (at 9 o'clock)
Date: Positioned at 6 o'clock
Condition: Good overall condition with visible signs of wear on the case, dial, and crystal in good condition, tritium showing slight aging
Strap: Generic textile, brown nylon with yellow stripes, in good condition
Case Back: Engraved with the Iraqi Air Force logo, a distinctive feature that makes this watch a collector’s item
Water Resistance: Water-resistant
Service: January 2023
The Breitling Navitimer Ref. 1806 from the 1970s is one of the most legendary watches from the Swiss brand, known for its dual function as a precise chronograph and calculation tool. This timepiece is powered by the Breitling Cal. 11 automatic movement, based on the Valjoux 7730, highly regarded for its durability and reliability over time. The movement was recently serviced in January 2023, ensuring optimal performance.
With a 48 mm diameter and a 13 mm thickness, the stainless steel case of the Navitimer 1806 is substantial, making it a standout feature of this model. The black dial is adorned with white sub-dials for seconds and minutes. The markers and numerals are treated with tritium (radium), which has aged to a slight yellowish tone over the years, giving the watch a unique vintage charm.
The case back is engraved with the Iraqi Air Force logo, a distinctive feature that makes this watch particularly attractive to military watch collectors. This logo represents a direct connection to the Iraqi Air Force, who used this model in the 1970s.
The strap, made of brown nylon with yellow stripes, is not original but complements the watch’s design perfectly, adding a sporty and functional touch. The case, while showing some signs of wear, is in good overall condition, maintaining its historical value. The glass is in excellent condition with minor signs of use that do not affect visibility.
In summary, the Breitling Navitimer 1806 is a piece of horological history, a perfect blend of functionality and design, making it a coveted object for true vintage and military watches.