Introducing The Breitling Transocean Chronograph Edition

November 03, 2014

We like good Breitling, and the new Transocean Chronograph doesn't disappoint. This model hankers for its roots a bit more than its predecessor with a vintage-feeling scheme and a simpler dial layout. Best of all, and unlike the earlier model, the Transocean Chronograph features a sapphire case back to showcase manufacture wares. The new model starts off with a 43 mm case (foreshadowing whats inside) in highly-polished stainless steel with steeply curved lugs. Like most Breitlings, youre bound to feel every millimeter of it. The dial has what Breitling calls twinzone silver dcor," but its more along the lines of champagne in color. The tachymeter scale (probably excessive on this watch) is still on the outer perimeter of the dial, only this time a darker disc highlights the applied hour markers and date window at 6 oclock. Is the date window necessary? It probably is if youre a pilot or someone along those lines, but we're not sure of how many Breitling owners actually fall into that category. The important thing is that the date is no longer between 4 and 5 oclock like in the original limited edition release?and that its no longer within a square window like in the Transocean Chronograph 38 (which we reviewed for A?Week On The Wrist). These semantics have quite a bit of sway on balanced design. A centered, slender date on a narrower disc makes the window a more inclusive element (kind of like it did on this Longines 24-hour mono-pusher) as opposed to it being an afterthought.The new Transocean also loses the hour register at 6 oclock. Youre now limited to a 30-minute register at 3 o'clock, which wont record a complete transcontinental race, but will still time burgers on a grill. All is still well. Inside the Transocean you will find the self-winding manufacture COSC caliber B01, which beats at 28,800 vph with at least 70 hours of power reserve, an appreciable feature. The movement will be visible thanks to a double back clasp cover. The cover can also be inscribed, adding special value as a keepsake.The mesh bracelet on which Breitling released this model may not work for everyone, and thats okay, because theyre also offering it on Barenia and crocodile leather straps. The new Transocean Chronograph will be limited to 2,000 pieces at a price of $9,695.For more on Breitling and the new Transocean Chronograph Edition, click here.