LA PREMIER IS BACK, 80 YEARS AFTER TURNING THE CHRONOGRAPH FROM A UTILITARIAN TO AN ELEGANT WATCH
By Shana Devleschoudere
We are introducing six new Premier models with a traditional design and equipped with the Manufacture Breitling caliber 01. Their launch coincides with the launch of a new book that tells the story of the origin of Breitling's most iconic chronograph.
Re-launched by Breitling in 2021, the Premier Heritage chronograph collection has revived Willy's dream of transforming the functional chronograph into an undeniably elegant object to be worn on the wrist - in his words, "the unmistakable mark of good taste."
All six models are powered by the Breitling Manufacture 01 self-winding caliber, a manufacture movement designed for maximum precision, reliability and functionality. First introduced in 2009, it is considered one of the best chronograph movements in the industry. Like all Breitling mechanical calibers, each has achieved the demanding COSC certification of -4 and +6 seconds per day accuracy.
The latest version of the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01 used in the new Premier chronograph was redesigned in 2022 and features a slimmer profile and a more compact oscillating weight that can be admired through the transparent sapphire crystal case back. The movement is guaranteed for five years and contains a power reserve of over 70 hours. In keeping with Willy's desire to combine functionality and elegance, the Premier watch is now water resistant to 100 m (10 bar).
First Story
The launch of the new Premier B01 Chronograph 42 coincides with the publication of Premier Story, the third part of the Watch Stories series, which traces the history of some of the world's most famous watches. Author Fred Mandelbaum, Breitling's official brand historian and the world's foremost collector of Premier watches, guides readers through Willy Breitling's successful (if often tumultuous) journey to bring the simple chronograph from the cockpits of airplanes to the wrists of the world's style pioneers - a journey that began 80 years ago.
Illustrated with stunning photographs, including rarely seen vintage watches, Premier Story not only tells the story of Premier. It also provides collectors with invaluable resources to help them authenticate vintage models and date pieces by hand shape, logo and serial number. Premier Story is a fascinating - and extremely practical - book that delves into the heart of one of the world's most iconic timepieces.