Breitling Blackbird

Breitling presented the first Blackbird in 1995. The design and reference numbers (Ref. A13350, Ref. A13050, Ref. A13353) of this first edition indicate that the Blackbird belongs to the Chronomat line and is, therefore, also a member of the Breitling Windrider watch family. The kinship between the Chronomat series is also evident in the Reiter-bezel as well as in the black watch face. In order to emphasize the noteworthy status of this first edition, the Breitling dial is transcribed with the red writing, “Serie Speciale”, and the name, “Breitling Blackbird Automatic” at three o’clock. From the very beginning, the Blackbird was created with a functional purpose - thus its design is kept technical and simple.

The Blackbird was named after the famous military aeroplane Lockheed SR-71 “Blackbird”. The strategic reconnaissance aircraft was operated by the U.S. Air Force from 1966 until 1998 - today, the aircraft can only be admired in museums. The fearless spirit of the SR-71 is embodied in all wristwatches from the Breitling Blackbird series. The Blackbird Lancaster edition (Ref. A13353) - launched in 2001 and limited to 60 watches - commemorates another aircraft. Breitling presented the watch to mark the 60th anniversary of the British WWII heavy bomber Avro Lancaster that first took flight in 1941. Today, the first generation of the Blackbird, as well as the Lancaster special edition, can only be purchased second-hand - nonetheless, these watches are undoubtedly a highlight in Breitling history.

The matte case of the Breitling Blackbird radiates robustness and distinguishes the timepiece from other Chronomat models. Case, crown, horns, and bracelet - all metal parts of the watch are provided with a matte finish. This special feature also encompasses the later generations of the Breitling Blackbird including the Blackbird with a large date display launched in 2007 (Ref. A44395), and the special edition with red accents on the dial presented in 2012 (Ref. A33360). Supporters of Breitling are simply delighted by the precise automatic movement with a chronograph function, the robust case, and the striking black watch face. Today, the two models are no longer in production but can still be found on the second-hand market.

The earlier models, the later special editions, or the new Avenger - those who want to complete a black-on-black ensemble can find an exceptional match with the Breitling Blackbird. The Blackbird, which is a member of the Chronomat family (e.g. Ref. A13350, Ref. A44359, Ref. A44360), can only be purchased second-hand. The prices for these models vary, and with special editions like the Lancaster Edition (Ref. A13353) that are hard to come by, the higher prices are justified. Those who invest in a Breitling Chronomat Blackbird can be sure to have purchased a reliable and exceptionally precise watch. The appeal of the Breitling Avenger Blackbird (Ref. V1731010) lies in its robustness and precision - making it popular with watch enthusiasts in spite of its youthful existence.