Breitling is releasing a special edition of its iconic Navitimer watch to pay tribute to the Middle East, a region in which it is cherished as a beloved piece of horological history.

The special edition Navitimer Automatic 41 is being launched exclusively for the Middle East market and has several key features that carves its own space among the esteemed Navitimer family.

Firstly, a striking red dial draws instant attention to the new stainless steel Navitimer and creates a bold first impression with its rich tone. Set against this deep red is a black-tipped central seconds hand and a beautifully clear date window at 6 o’clock. A brand renowned for making watches with supreme readability, Breitling has chosen to coat the watch’s hour markers, and hour and minute hands, with Super-LumiNova. On the caseback of the 41mm piece are the words ‘Middle East Edition’ in a sophisticated font. Inside the elegant case of the Navitimer Automatic 41 is the Breitling Caliber 17, an automatic movement with a power reserve of approximately 38 hours.  The new Navitimer 41 is presented on a brown alligator strap, which adds a vintage feel to the timepiece.

Speaking of the Navitimer Automatic 41 Middle East edition, Aed Adwan, Managing Director, Breitling Middle East, India and Africa said it exudes an adventurous personality. “The Middle East region is a hub for travel and the Navitimer Automatic 41 is an ideal companion for the cosmopolitan traveller,” he said. “We decided to produce this much-loved model in a striking red version for our travel enthusiasts who wish to stand out from the crowd. Its fresh, contemporary look draws much of its inspiration from the iconic Navitimer Ref. 806 and the Reference 66, a three-handed Navitimer we launched back in the 1950s. This watch will never go out of style.”

The Breitling Navitimer first made an appearance in 1952. The iconic chronometer, which celebrated its 70th birthday in 2022, is the cornerstone of the Breitling portfolio and a hugely respected member of the pilot watch hall of fame. What began as a functional tool for pilots to aid navigation became known for its style and distinctive design touches, particularly its circular slide rule on the notched bidirectional bezel.

Breitling CEO Georges Kern explains, “The Navitimer is one of the most recognisable watches ever made and is on collectors’ lists of the greatest watches of all time.”