Why This Watch Matters

Breitling's Premier is a beautiful chronograph perfectly suited for all occasions. 

The Full Story

Vintage Breitling chronographs have become a collecting genre unto themselves. Even without considering the company's most well known watch, the slide-rule equipped Navitimer, the brand has more vintage chronograph deep cuts than perhaps any other Swiss brand. 

While sport chronographs like the Breitling Chronomat and Top Time are some of the better known offerings, Breitling also produced the elegant Premier line for years and produce the Premier line today. Today's example comes from the Premier line during the 1940s. Made of pink gold, the watch features a non-lume dial with Art Deco style numerals and a three-register layout in the classic configuration. The case is a solid 35mm with rectangular chronograph buttons and a manually wound Venus 178 under the hood. We paired it with a playful sea blue calfskin strap to give it a fun and casual vibe, but if you throw it on a black shell-cordovan strap, you'll have a properly formal look. 

The Fine Print

Maker: Breitling 
Model: Premier 
Reference: 787
Year: 1945
Case No: 607654
Material: 18k Pink gold 
Dimensions: 35mm diameter; 11mm thickness 
Crystal: Plexiglass 
Lume: No
Caliber: Manual winding Venus 178 
Bracelet/Strap:  
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: No 

What we Love and What You Should Know

This Breitling is in nice, honest condition. The case is strong with scratches, the bevels are clearly visible. The case number on the caseback is fully visible and the reference number below it is partially visible, showing some signs of wear. The chronograph pushers also show signs of wear. The nine o'clock side of the case shows signs of being opened. The dial has developed patina throughout with wear around the edges. The crystal has some scratches.