Breitling
*Unpolished* 1960s Breitling Top Time Chronograph Gold Plate (Ref. 2008) W/ Box & Papers
While Breitling is probably best known for aviation-related watches like the iconic Navitimer, the brand was actually founded in 1884, almost 20 years before the Wright brothers ever took their first flight. Leon Breitling's first watches were of the pocket variety, as was de rigueur of the time, before the brand transitioned into wristwatches in 1914, and released one of the first wrist-worn chronographs just a year later.
Fast-forward a few decades, and in 1964, Breitling released the Top Time. Designed to be the watch for the "next generation", it catered to the younger and more rebellious demographic of the 1960s, and at a lower price point than their more specialized timepieces.
SPECS
| Stock # |
BRTTT2008
|
|
| Brand | Breitling | |
| Style | Top Time Chronograph | |
| Model | 2008 | |
| Serial | N/A | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Gold Plate / Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Silver W/ Black Sub-Dials | |
| Millimeters | 38 | |
| Strap | 2pc Handmade Leather Strap |
CASE & BRACELET
The charming oversized, cushion-style gold-plated case is exceptionally well-preserved and believed to remain unpolished, with crisp edges and factory finishing throughout. There is wear present in the bottom right corner of the case, while the rest of the case exhibits minimal signs of use. The trapezoidal pushers and Breitling-branded crown are original to the watch. The case back retains the factory markings in deep and full present conditions. The era-correct gold-plated "Moblot" mesh bracelet is not signed Breitling, but is likely original to the watch. The bracelet will accommodate between a 6-inch and an 8-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The matte black, reverse-panda dial, with silver sub-dials, is in exceptional vintage condition, displaying no notable damage and only nominal elements of age. The tritium lume plots have achieved a charming cream patina, with no degradation present under UV light inspection. The original tritium gold hands match the dial patina and show no degradation under UV light.
ACCESSORIES
The watch comes with its original clamshell Breitling box, as well as the hang tag and Breitling international guarantee papers, though they remain never filled out. The watch is keeping time and functioning correctly, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be purchased upon request.