Origins and period
Saint-Imier, Switzerland; later La Chaux-de-Fonds and Grenchen
Founded by Léon Breitling in 1884
Abbady Watches A–Z archive · Research page
Breitling
This page has been created in the permanent archive and is ready for verified history, watch photographs, model identification, and collector information.
Abbady photographic archive
Breitling photographs
Archive photographs are captioned only from details visible in the image. Exact references and production dates remain open until case, movement, and serial markings can be compared.
Breitling in watchmaking
Léon Breitling founded a workshop specializing in chronographs and precision counters in 1884. Successive generations refined independent chronograph pushers, cockpit instruments, and wrist chronographs; the Navitimer’s circular slide rule and the Superocean dive line made professional aviation and sport central to the brand.
Landmark dates
- Founding and first production
- Important movement or model launch
- Expansion, merger, revival, or modern milestone
Known for
Chronomat, Navitimer, Superocean, Top Time, Emergency, aviation instruments, chronograph development, and the modern manufacture Calibre B01.
Movements and innovation
Calibres, escapements, case construction, water resistance, electronic or quartz development, manufacturing methods, patents, and specialist suppliers.
Identification checklist
- Reference and serial numbers
- Movement calibre and jewel count
- Case material and dimensions
- Dial, hands, crown, crystal, bracelet, and inscriptions
Preservation guidance
Service considerations, originality, replacement parts, water-resistance assumptions, safe storage, and details that should be documented before restoration.
References and credits
Official manufacturer history, museum or archive sources, technical sheets, books, catalogues, advertisements, image credits, and provenance notes.