Taking to the skies as a pilot is a dream for many, but becoming a pilot requires a great deal of knowledge and some pretty sophisticated tools. While modern pilots rely on digital equipment and expensive electronics to stay safely above the clouds, sky-faring professionals didn't always have it so easy.
As modern aviation was just beginning to come into its own in the 1940s, watchmaker Breitling released a mobile instrument panel for pilots meant to be worn on the wrist. This device was known as the Breitling Chronomat.
Years after the success of the Chronomat, Brietling partnered with the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (AOPA) to develop and release the Breitling Navitimer. This device not only improved upon the design and function of the Chronomat, but it also set the standard for pilot's watches.
Undergoing Change
During the 1950s and 1960s, the Navitimer's design saw a number of changes, including the introduction of the Valjoux 72 and Venus 178 motors. By the 1970s, the Navitimer included a built-in date window and began introducing quartz displays.
Despite the changes and upgrades, the Navitimer never lost its trademark slide rule bezel. This is one of the reasons why pilots and aviation enthusiasts continued to rely on this powerful watch for many years after. Today, a used Breitling Navitimer is considered both a functional piece of history as well as a collector's item.
Placing Value on a Pre-Owned Breitling Navitimer
The value of a used Breitling Navitimer comes down to a number of factors, including its condition, its rarity, and any historical significance behind the individual piece. Many Navitimers have been used in military aviation operations, and these pieces may be considerably more expensive than a run-of-the-mill piece.
If you have a Navitimer in your possession and you're considering selling it, you're encouraged to do some research before accepting an offer. Because these devices are both historical and collectible, you may need to get several experts from various disciplines to examine your Navitimer to get a sense for its true value.
Author Resource:-
Jeson Clarke is providing info about pre-owned luxury watches, selling, buying, watch repair and services. You can find his thoughts at used luxury watches blog.