Breitling’s Top Time racing chronograph evokes the free-spirited era of the 1960s.

BREITLING Top Time

Breitling’s Top Time chronograph is back. The new model revives a particularly bold chronograph design from the 1960s for the modern era.

Text by Kosaku Waseda

Unique Rounded Sub-dials Create a Distinctive Look

Motorsport is etched into Breitling’s DNA. The history of racing chronographs, dating back to the dawn of the automobile, has been passed down through generations, whether on winding rally courses or high-speed circuits. This new model follows that lineage, emerging as an instrument for challengers.

In particular, the lineup of racing chronographs that Breitling offered in the 1960s perfectly captured the free-spirited atmosphere of the era. The newly released Top Time revives the bold details of that time for today.

The two new models, the Top Time B01 Racing Limited Edition and the Top Time B01 Racing Martini Limited Edition, feature cushion-shaped cases reminiscent of vintage models, rounded sub-dials, and distinctive oval "dashboard" dials, creating a style that evokes classic car instrumentation.

Both are chronographs that allow you to experience the thrill and speed of racing on your wrist. The Martini Racing collaboration model, as its name suggests, is a creation born from a partnership with a legend of the racing world.

The case diameter is 38mm. While classic in size, it boasts exquisite proportions that sit comfortably on modern wrists.

Inside beats Breitling’s proud in-house Caliber 01. With a power reserve of approximately 70 hours and COSC chronometer certification, it achieves outstanding precision. Furthermore, it is equipped with easy-to-operate mushroom-shaped pushers, designed for quick and reliable chronograph operation even in the tense moments of a rally.

The Top Time Racing embodies the tension and glory of demanding races. Two color variations are available: the black and white dial is paired with a beige racing strap, while the green and white dial comes with a green leather strap, each asserting a distinct personality.

Both feature perforated straps, reminiscent of vintage driving gloves. Limited to 750 pieces each, with "One of 750" engraved on the case back, they hold significant collector value.

Meanwhile, the Top Time B01 Racing Martini Limited Edition is a coveted piece for motorsport enthusiasts. Boldly featuring the iconic blue, light blue, and red stripes on the dial, it allows you to experience the legend of Martini Racing, which has been a prominent force in racing for over 50 years, right on your wrist.

This model is also limited to 750 pieces, with "One of 750" and "Martini Racing" proudly engraved on the case back.

Regarding this special collaboration, Breitling CEO Georges Kern stated, "The Top Time collection is known for its bold chronographs. With this limited edition, we've added a modern twist to the classic 1960s design, returning to the Top Time's original purpose of timing races and measuring speed."

The revived Top Time is not merely a reissue or an homage to the past. It is a model that fuses modern technology with classic aesthetics, serving as an instrument for those who challenge themselves.