The event, which invited approximately 340 guests from Japan, China, South Korea, and various Southeast Asian countries, showcased the brand's story of releasing numerous masterpieces from its founding in 1884 to the present day. Breitling vintage watches owned by Fred Mandelbaum, a world-renowned chronograph collector, were also displayed in various parts of the booth. It was a night that beautifully visualized Breitling's history and tradition, known as a pioneer of pilot watches since developing the world's first chronograph wristwatch with an independent dedicated push-button in 1915.

Yuma“When I started working as a stylist in my 20s, I often used Breitling watches for styling in magazines like POPEYE, for FDG (French Preppy) and Shibuya Casual looks. They were chronographs, pioneers, with a sophisticated military taste that was cool. They were aspirational watches for me back then.”

The editor-in-chief was drawn to the vintage pieces from the 1960s in the brand's history exhibition. He was particularly captivated by the design of the "Superocean" diver's watch, displayed in the booth for 1965, the year of his birth, to the point of staring intently.

Yuma“Tracing the brand's history, it's clear that early models were very function-oriented, as they were favored by pilots and used in aircraft cockpit instruments. From the 1960s onwards, when pop culture flourished, the dials and designs began to show a fashion sensibility, leading to the release of stylish designs and models used in "007" movies. It was fascinating to see how a brand that started with pilot watches evolved over time.”

Page02.Dinner Reception After the Event...

At the dinner reception following the event, Georges Kern, who took over as Breitling's CEO last summer, took the stage. He spoke about the brand's rich heritage and its future endeavors, while also announcing the new "Navitimer 8" collection. He expressed his strong ambition to transform the brand from its image of tough, masculine pilot watches to elegant and luxurious timepieces.

Yuma“Thirty years ago, when I used Breitling watches in my styling, the image of Breitling was that of a tough aviation watch, so pairing it with the street fashion of the time looked cool. It's interesting that they will be releasing more classic and elegant watches from now on. Listening to collectors, Breitling has a great heritage of history and technology. And what I found iconic and fresh again at this event was Breitling's 'B' logo. I'm very much looking forward to their future developments.”