The Breitling Navitimer Super 8 was inspired by the Reference 637, a stopwatch that pilots in the 1930s and 1940s wore strapped to their thighs.
The Navitimer Super 8 expresses the distinctive, practical design elements of the Reference 637 in a big, bold wristwatch that is one of the stars of this year?s collection. Every Breitling watch has a tale to tell, but the story behind this one could fill volumes.
The new Breitling Navitimer Super 8 took its design inspiration from the Reference 637 stopwatch, which was used in the Second World War by bomber pilots and crews. While the Navitimer Super 8 fits comfortably on the wrist, the Reference 637 was strapped to the aviators? thighs for optimal readability and ease of use. Its prominent crown, ideally located at the top of the case, offered ease of maneuverability, even with a gloved hand. The pusher activated the count-up and count-down functions that allowed the aviators to execute their missions with precision. The crown of the Navitimer 8 is positioned on the right side of the case and complements this extraordinary watch?s striking design.  

The Reference 637 was created by Breitling?s Huit Aviation Department, which was established in 1938 by Willy Breitling. He was aware of the strict requirements for military and civil aviation, and the Department?s name ? the French word for ?eight? ? was chosen to reflect the eight days of power reserve offered by onboard clocks and other dashboard instruments. The clocks de...