Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the operation, maintenance, and care of your Breitling Navitimer 1 Chronograph Automatic Men's Watch. Designed for precision and functionality, this timepiece combines classic aviation aesthetics with advanced horological engineering. Please read this manual carefully to ensure proper use and longevity of your watch.
Watch Components

Image: Front view of the Breitling Navitimer 1 Chronograph Automatic Watch. It features a polished stainless steel case, a black dial with three silver sub-dials, luminescent hands, and index hour markers. The bidirectional rotating bezel has a circular aviation slide rule. The watch is fitted with a black leather strap with white stitching.
- Case: Polished stainless steel, 46mm in diameter.
- Bezel: Polished bidirectional rotating stainless steel bezel with circular aviation slide rule.
- Dial: Black dial with silver sub-dials for chronograph functions and small seconds.
- Hands & Markers: Luminescent hands and index hour markers for visibility.
- Crown: Non screw-locked crown with 2 gaskets, located at 3 o'clock.
- Pushers: Chronograph pushers located at 2 and 4 o'clock.
- Strap: Black leather strap with crocodile pattern and stainless steel deployment buckle.
- Crystal: Cambered scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides.
- Case Back: Sapphire crystal exhibition case back, revealing the movement.
Setup
Setting the Time and Date
- Winding: As an automatic watch, it winds with wrist movement. If the watch has stopped, gently wind it manually by turning the crown clockwise approximately 30-40 times while it is in its normal, pushed-in position.
- Setting the Date: Pull the crown out to the first position. Turn the crown clockwise or counter-clockwise to set the date. The date is displayed in a dial aperture between 4 and 5 o'clock. Avoid setting the date between 9 PM and 3 AM, as this can damage the movement.
- Setting the Time: Pull the crown out to the second position. The small seconds hand at 9 o'clock will stop. Turn the crown to move the hour and minute hands to the desired time. Push the crown back in to restart the watch and ensure water resistance.
Operating the Watch
Chronograph Function
The chronograph allows for precise timing of events.
- Start: Press the upper pusher (at 2 o'clock) to start the large central chronograph seconds hand.
- Stop: Press the upper pusher again to stop the chronograph. The elapsed time will be indicated by the central seconds hand, the 30-minute counter (at 3 o'clock), and the 12-hour counter (at 6 o'clock).
- Reset: After stopping, press the lower pusher (at 4 o'clock) to reset all chronograph hands to zero.
Circular Aviation Slide Rule
The Navitimer's signature feature is its circular slide rule, integrated into the bezel and dial, enabling various aviation-related calculations.
- Principle: The slide rule consists of a fixed scale on the dial and a rotating scale on the bezel. Calculations are performed by aligning values on these two scales.
- Multiplication/Division: To multiply, align the '10' (or 'BASE') on the rotating scale with the first number on the fixed scale. Read the product on the fixed scale opposite the second number on the rotating scale. For division, align the divisor on the rotating scale with the dividend on the fixed scale. The quotient is read on the fixed scale opposite the '10' (or 'BASE') on the rotating scale.
- Speed/Distance/Fuel Consumption: The slide rule can be used for more complex calculations such as converting units, calculating average speed, distance covered, or fuel consumption. Refer to specialized aviation slide rule guides for detailed instructions on these advanced functions.
Maintenance
Cleaning Your Watch
To maintain the appearance of your watch, clean the case and metal bracelet regularly with a soft, damp cloth. For leather straps, avoid excessive moisture and harsh chemicals. Ensure the crown is fully pushed in before cleaning.
Water Resistance
Your Breitling Navitimer is water resistant to 30 meters (100 feet). This rating means the watch is suitable for splashes or brief immersion in water, but not for swimming, showering, or diving. Always ensure the crown is fully pushed in to maintain water resistance. Avoid operating the pushers or crown when the watch is wet or submerged.
Servicing
For optimal performance and longevity, it is recommended to have your Breitling watch serviced by an authorized service center every 3-5 years. Regular servicing ensures the movement remains lubricated and accurate, and seals are checked for water resistance.
Troubleshooting
- Watch Not Running: If the watch has stopped, ensure it is sufficiently wound. Wear it regularly or manually wind it as described in the 'Setup' section.
- Date Not Changing: Check if the time is set correctly (AM/PM). If the date changes at noon, you may need to advance the time by 12 hours. Ensure you are not setting the date during the forbidden period (9 PM - 3 AM).
- Chronograph Hands Not Resetting to Zero: This may indicate a need for servicing or a minor adjustment. Do not attempt to force the hands. Contact an authorized service center.
- Condensation Under Crystal: If you notice condensation, this indicates a loss of water resistance. Immediately take the watch to an authorized service center to prevent further damage to the movement.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AB012721-BG78-442X |
| Movement | Breitling Caliber 01, Self-Winding Automatic, COSC Chronometer Certified |
| Power Reserve | Approx. 70 hours |
| Vibrations Per Hour | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 47 |
| Case Material | Polished Stainless Steel |
| Case Diameter | 46mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.51mm |
| Weight | 103.95g |
| Crystal | Cambered Scratch-Resistant Sapphire, Glareproofed on Both Sides |
| Case Back | Sapphire Crystal Exhibition |
| Crown | Non Screw-Locked, 2 Gaskets |
| Strap Material | Black Leather with Crocodile Pattern |
| Clasp Type | Stainless Steel Deployment Buckle |
| Water Resistance | 30 meters / 100 feet |
| Functions | Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds, Date, Chronograph, Slide Rule |
Warranty and Support
Your Breitling Navitimer watch is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. For detailed information regarding warranty terms, conditions, and duration, please refer to the official Breitling warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Breitling website. For technical support, repairs, or genuine spare parts, please contact an authorized Breitling service center.

