Breitling is making a big splash with the launch of three new versions of its legendary Avenger B01 Chronograph Night Mission. These exceptional watches, designed in collaboration with elite squadrons of the American naval aviation, combine technical performance with bold military design. Discover these timepieces that will turn heads well beyond the cockpit.
Three Avenger B01s in the colors of the American naval aviation elite
Breitling unveils a trio of Avenger B01 Chronograph 44 Night Mission specially created for:
These new editions are part of the long tradition of collaboration between Breitling and the armed forces, while capitalizing on the recent redesign of the Avenger collection launched in November 2023.
A robust design adapted to military requirements
The three models share the following features:
Each watch proudly displays its squadron emblem at 9 o'clock, providing a personalized and exclusive touch.
Color combinations that affirm the identity of each squadron
The contrast between the matte black ceramic case and the bright colours of the dials creates a striking visual impact, perfectly in line with the military spirit of these watches.
The B01 caliber: Swiss precision in the service of military excellence
At the heart of these Avenger B01 beats the Breitling 01 manufacture caliber, a COSC-certified automatic chronograph movement that offers:
This movement, manufactured in the Breitling Chronométrie workshops in La Chaux-de-Fonds, embodies Swiss watchmaking excellence and meets the strictest precision requirements.
An aeronautical heritage that takes flight
Breitling's history with aviation dates back to the 1930s. In 1938, Willy Breitling founded the Huit Aviation department, dedicated to creating ever more precise and reliable on-board instruments for the nascent military aviation industry.
Although the Avenger only appeared in the Breitling collection in 2001, it quickly established itself as the brand’s quintessential military watch. These new editions continue that legacy while adapting it to the needs of modern naval forces.
An exclusivity accessible to both civilians and military personnel
Unlike some Breitling military editions that remain confidential, these three new Avenger B01s are available both to members of the squadrons concerned and to the general public. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a watch with an authentic military design, worn by the elite of the American naval aviation.
A pricing positioning that raises questions
These new Avenger B01s are priced at £8,200 (around €9,400 or $10,200), a £550 increase over last year's Night Mission edition, and £250 over the Red Arrows edition that launched in May.
This price change, apparently not justified by major technical changes, could raise questions among collectors and fans of the brand.
The Return of Wings: A Call to Purists
A point of debate among Breitling aficionados concerns the logo used on these new Avengers. The current stylized “B,” while emblematic of the brand, does not fit the history of the Avenger collection.
Many enthusiasts are advocating for the return of the winged logo, introduced in 1985 and more in line with the Avenger's origins in the 2000s. This change would not only bring historical consistency, but also improve the visual balance of the dial.
These new Breitling Avenger B01 Chronograph 44 Night Mission for the American Naval Aviation embody the encounter between Swiss watchmaking excellence and the prestige of the military elite. They offer watch enthusiasts the rare opportunity to wear on their wrist a genuine aeronautical instrument, full of history and performance.
Whether you are a pilot, a military aviation enthusiast or simply a fan of watches with a strong character, these Avenger B01s will undoubtedly seduce you with their robust design, their chronometric precision and their aura of exclusivity.
It remains to be seen whether Breitling will heed the call of purists to return the winged logo to the Avenger. In the meantime, these three new editions are already shaping up to be coveted collector's items, witnesses to a unique collaboration between Swiss watchmaking and American naval aviation.
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