Breitling’s latest Top Time Classic Cars series is a nod to the iconic American sports cars from the 1950s and 1960s. Originally launched in 2021, the series has been revamped with a new addition to the lineup and significant updates to the existing models for 2023. With their bright colors and automotive-inspired design elements, the Top Time Classic Cars watches represent a lighthearted break from tradition.
Inspired by the classic American cars, the original series consisted of three models, each representing a different car. The series was not limited to a specific number of examples but was produced for only one year. In the latest collection, the Ford Thunderbird edition has been added, featuring a white dial and a bright red strap. The other three models in the lineup are the Ford Mustang edition with a dark green dial, the Chevrolet Corvette version with a bright red dial, and the Shelby Cobra-inspired model with a blue dial and contrasting white registers.
The new generation of Breitling Top Time B01 Classic Cars watches offers a similar shape and profile to their first-generation counterparts. However, the new models have stainless steel cases that measure 41mm in diameter by 13.8mm-thick, slightly larger than the first generation’s 40mm case. A cambered sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment sits above the dial, and a signed winding crown at the 3 o’clock location flanked by two pump-style pushers offers access to the movement. The new Top Time B01 Classic Cars watches have sapphire display casebacks that have the logos of their respective cars printed on the underside surfaces of the display windows.
Powering the new Top Time Classic Cars watches is the Breitling Caliber 01 automatic chronograph movement. An integrated self-winding chronograph that operates with a column wheel and a vertical clutch, the Breitling Cal. 01 runs at a frequency of 28,800vph (4 Hz) while offering users a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The Cal. B01 is also a COSC-certified chronometer, ensuring the new Top Time Classic Cars watches keep time within -4/+6 seconds per day.
The new Breitling Top Time B01 Classic Cars watches are available with the option of either two-piece calfskin leather straps or stainless steel mesh bracelets fitted with butterfly-style folding clasps. The leather straps come in complementary colors for the dials of the watches, with the Ford Thunderbird model receiving a red strap, the Chevrolet Corvette edition fitted with a black strap, and both the Ford Mustang and Shelby Cobra versions receiving dark brown straps. Additionally, all of the leather straps feature Breitling’s signature bright yellow lining and a racing-style perforated pattern on their outer surfaces.
Although the new models are more expensive than their predecessors, most of the price increase is due to the fact that the new models are powered by the Breitling 01 manufacture movement. Additionally, the new generation is joining the collection as a core offering, meaning that those who wish to purchase one should have ample opportunities to secure the specific model they desire.
In conclusion, the Breitling Top Time Classic Cars series pays homage to the classic American sports cars and offers a lighthearted break from tradition with its bright colors and automotive-inspired design elements. For more information on the new Breitling Top Time B01 Classic Cars watches, please visit the brand’s website.
Model: Top Time B01
Reference Numbers: AB01766A1A1X1 (Thunderbird, white), AB01762A1L1X1 (Mustang, green), AB01762A1L1X1 (Corvette, red), AB01763A1C1X1 (Shelby, blue).
Diameter: 41mm
Thickness: 13.8mm
Lug to lug: 50.36mm
Case Material: Steel
Indexes: Applied
Lume: Markers and hands
Water Resistance: 100 meters
Strap/Bracelet: Stainless steel mesh or color-coordinated calfskin leather strap
The Movement
Caliber: Breitling Manufacture Caliber O1 (aka. B01)
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, 12-hour chronograph with central chrono seconds and 1/4th of a second resolution)
Diameter: 30mm
Thickness: 7.2mm
Power Reserve: 70 hours
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 VPH
Chronometer Certified: COSC
Price: 7,550€ (leather), 7,950€ (steel mesh)
