Dedicated to Preserving Aviation Heritage

Breitling, a watch manufacturer headquartered in Switzerland, has solidified its position as a partner in the aviation world. This status was cemented by the development of the "Cockpit Chronograph" in 1931. This timepiece not only enabled accurate flight time calculations but also ensured high levels of durability, shock resistance, vibration resistance, and legibility. In the aviation industry, where reliability is a matter of life and death, Breitling's presence became indispensable.

Breitling has walked alongside aviation since its nascent stages, and consequently, it also dedicates itself to preserving aviation culture. One such initiative is its support for the "Super Constellation Flyers Association." This non-profit organization works to restore and maintain historically significant aircraft, ensuring they can be passed on to future generations. The Breitling DC-3, which has made an appearance in Japan, is one such aircraft that has been restored and preserved.

The Douglas DC-3 is a twin-engine propeller aircraft developed for transcontinental flights across the United States. Its first flight was on December 17, 1935. Its distinguishing features included greater durability, superior fuel efficiency, and extended range compared to other aircraft. Its all-around performance made it popular, leading to the production of approximately 16,000 units by the end of its production in 1942 (military versions until 1945).

Departing Geneva in March 2017

While approximately 150 DC-3s are said to exist today, the Super Constellation Flyers Association moved to acquire one in 2008 to preserve this historically significant aircraft. They obtained the DC-3 HB-IRJ, which made its first flight on March 9, 1940. With the exception of a period of temporary requisition, it has been consistently used as a civilian passenger aircraft. It has logged 74,500 flight hours and is in exceptionally good condition, earning it the moniker "the legend of aviation." After being beautifully repainted and reborn as the Breitling DC-3, it has delighted many aviation enthusiasts by participating in airshows across Europe.

The Breitling DC-3 is now embarking on the "Breitling DC-3 World Tour" in its 77th year. The DC-3's maximum altitude is 4,800 meters, and its speed is 250 km/h. It can fly for about 8 hours without refueling, meaning that crossing the Pacific or Atlantic Ocean is by no means a simple feat.

Although scheduled to return to Geneva in September, a circumnavigation of the globe requires a stop at 54 airports. However, if successful, it will earn the title of the oldest aircraft to have completed a world tour.

Gracefully Soaring Over Kumamoto, Kobe, Fukushima, and Higashimatsushima

While the World Tour's primary objective is the preservation of aviation culture, another project was also underway in Japan: disaster recovery support.

In 2013, the "Breitling Jet Team," an acrobatic flight team using jet aircraft, held an airshow titled "Let's All Look Up at the Sky!" in the disaster-stricken area of Fukushima to bring cheer. This time, children from Kumamoto, Kobe, Fukushima, and Higashimatsushima were invited to board the DC-3, experiencing a taste of travel aboard an aircraft from a bygone era.

Although the altitude was around 400 meters and the speed 250 km/h, differing from modern passenger jets, the experience of smelling the fuel, feeling the vibrations, and hearing the sounds undoubtedly provided a valuable memory. While the program of having children on board was unique to Japan during this World Tour, Captain Francisco Agüero, the driving force behind this tour, expressed his joy at interacting with the children, stating, "It was meaningful to have children who represent the future experience this flight."

A Special Navitimer Limited Edition Arrives This Autumn

Following the tour's conclusion, the "Navitimer Breitling DC-3 Limited Edition" will be released. The Navitimer, born in 1952 with its characteristic onboard rotating slide rule, has been immensely popular among pilots. The Navitimer is a perfect match for the historical significance of the DC-3. Furthermore, this watch is being stored somewhere within the aircraft and is accompanying it on its world tour.

The watch will come with a flight certificate signed by the captain. Limited to 500 pieces worldwide. The case back of the limited edition model will feature an emblem commemorating the "Breitling DC-3 World Tour."