
The Breitling Transocean Chronograph models are everything you need for an elegant and straightforward watch with a pinch of flair. They’ve made a comeback over the last decade, and we’re thrilled with the updated versions.
The latest models are equipped with a number of various complication options, including the classic chronograph mechanism, date window, and calendar, to a more complex moon phase function.
First, let’s look at the Breitling Transocean beginnings.
A Brief History of the Breitling Transocean
A New Release
Breitling released the first Transocean model in 1958. By that time, the brand had established itself as a leader in the pilot watch industry with production of the Navitimer.
Travel by land and sea became more accessible and popular than ever in the 1950’s, and global exploration exploded. Breitling capitalized by releasing the Transocean. The name Transocean pays homage to the rise of international travel.
The Navitimer was for professional and amateur pilots, but the Transocean was for the new generation of travelers. Breitling stepped away from their usual sporty design with the elegant and more formal Transocean.
This first model featured a COSC (Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute) movement and boasted a more conservative, upscale feel.
Breitling retired the Transocean just a few short years after its original release.
The Comeback
Breitling revived the Transocean forty years later in 2010. The updated version kept its vintage roots, but featured contemporary upgrades.
The new Breitling Transocean Chronograph featured a 43 mm case with a 14.35mm thickness.
Then, Breitling released another updated Transocean three years later. This model was much closer related to the original. At least in size with a 38 mm case.
Other upgrades included an all-new, in-house Breitling B01 automatic mechanical movement, a 72-hour power reserve, and a sapphire caseback.
The Transocean has since been released in a variety of models. Breitling released the Transocean Unitime Pilot in 2014, and the Transocean Chronograph 1915 in 2015, plus several others as well.
Breitling Transocean Features
The Breitling Transocean Chronographs remains classy as ever! It comes in a variety of combinations to suit nearly any style or preference.
DIAL
The dial comes in black or white with contrasting sub dials. In addition, there’s one sleek model with a black dial and subdials. We love the monochrome look of that one.
The dials have relatively tame designs compared to other Breitling models., Baton indices, and polished bezels give these timepieces their elegant touch.
CASE
Next, the case is made of stainless steel with a sapphire crystal caseback. Water resistance reaches up to 100 m (330 feet). More details follow:
Case material: Stainless Steel
Caseback: Screwed in (sapphire crystal)
Water resistance: 100 m (330 ft)
Crown: Non screw-locked, two gaskets
Crystal: Convex sapphire crystal, glareproofed both sides
BRACELET
Strap material: Stainless Steel or Black Rubber
MOVEMENT
Caliber: Breitling 01 (Manufacture)
Movement: self-winding mechanical
Power reserve: approx. 70 hrs
Chronograph: 1/4th second, 30 minutes, 12 hours
Vibration: 28,800 v.p.h Jewel 47 jewels
Calendar: Dial aperture
DIMENSIONS
Watch-head Weight: (Approx.) 91.8 g.
Diameter: 43.0 mm
Thickness: 14.3 mm
Height (upper lug tip to lower lug tip): 55.2 mm
Lug width: (in-between lug) 22.0 mm
Final Thoughts on the Breitling Transocean Chronograph
We’re big fans of the Transocean. It’s a straightforward watch that exudes class and elegance. And it basically elevates any attire you pair it with, from jeans and a polo to a three piece suit.
You can find great deals on later model Transocean’s, and even some early models. However the earliest Transocean’s are harder to find.
In summary, we’d recommend a Breitling Transocean Chronographs for any watch collection.
Are you are interested in purchasing your own Transocean? Or another Breitling model? Give us a call or fill out our contact form.
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