Breitling has released two new "Navitimer B02 Chronograph 41 Cosmonaute" models, with a limited production of 362 units. This timepiece faithfully recreates the "Navitimer Cosmonaute" worn by astronaut Scott Carpenter on May 24, 1962, during his Mercury-Atlas 7 mission, while incorporating subtle updates to evoke a modern-retro aesthetic.

In the 1960s, Breitling's Navitimer was already an undisputed pilot's watch. However, global attention rapidly shifted from air travel to space exploration, and watch manufacturers began competing to develop the world's first wristwatch for astronauts.

On May 24, 1962, Breitling officially earned the title of "First Swiss wristwatch in space" when astronaut Scott Carpenter orbited the Earth three times wearing the "Navitimer Cosmonaute" on his Mercury-Atlas 7 mission. This timepiece was manufactured to Carpenter's personal specifications, adding a 24-hour dial to distinguish day and night in space to the iconic pilot's watch he had seen during his time as an aviator.

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of that mission, Breitling has unveiled the original "Navitimer Cosmonaute" worn by Carpenter, alongside its modern tribute, the new "Navitimer B02 Chronograph 41 Cosmonaute."

This new model is available in two variations: an all-black dial paired with either a black alligator leather strap or a seven-row stainless steel bracelet. It faithfully reproduces the original aesthetic while subtly exuding a modern-retro flair through refined updates. Key features include an elegant platinum bezel, Breitling's signature circular slide rule for performing mathematical calculations, the International Federation of Pilots' "wings" logo, three chronograph sub-dials, and the 24-hour display inherited from the original. The Breitling Manufacture Caliber B02 movement, developed specifically for these functions, is visible through the sapphire crystal case back.

Furthermore, the caliber's bridges are adorned with special engravings, including replicas of Carpenter's insignia, the Mercury 7 mission patch, the orbital path of his three Earth orbits, and the rocket's space capsule uniform badge, celebrating the 60th anniversary. As a final touch, the case back is engraved with the mission date and the phrase "First Swiss wristwatch in space," with a limited production of 362 units.

Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling, stated, "When we unveiled the new Navitimer design this year, everyone asked, 'What about the Cosmonaute?' Today, I am incredibly pleased to finally present two Cosmonautes: the one Scott Carpenter wore in space, which we are revealing for the first time, and a 60th-anniversary limited edition, a tribute to this historic pioneer." The original watch worn by Carpenter, rendered irreparable after prolonged exposure to seawater upon his return to Earth, had been kept in storage and not publicly displayed for many years. However, to mark the 60th anniversary and the launch of the reissue, its current state has now been revealed.