Breitling's Top Time model B31 streamlines its chronograph registers, adopting a more minimalist and compact design.
Breitling has unveiled a new addition to its Top Time collection, the Top Time B31. This timepiece is a contemporary reinterpretation of the iconic Top Time chronograph line, featuring Breitling's first in-house three-hand movement, the B31 caliber.
A Modern Movement with a Rich Heritage
The B31 caliber operates at 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) and boasts an impressive 78-hour power reserve. The movement is COSC Chronometer certified, ensuring high precision, and is decorated modestly with Geneva Stripes and perlage. The watch is backed by a 5-year warranty due to being an in-house movement.
The new Top Time B31 models, particularly the 38mm versions, blend the heritage of the Top Time line with modern technical advances and design cues. Historically, the Top Time line dates back to the 1960s and 1970s and was known for its sporty chronograph watches.
Specifications of Breitling Top Time B31
- Movement: In-house Breitling B31, three-hand (time-only)
- Frequency: 4 Hz (28,800 vph)
- Power reserve: 78 hours
- Certification: COSC Chronometer certified
- Case size: 38mm
- Caseback: Exhibition caseback showing decorated movement
- Warranty: 5 years for the in-house movement
- Style: Retro-modern, balancing vintage inspiration and current trends
Comparison with Rolex Datejust
The Rolex Datejust, a classic luxury watch, is known for its versatile and timeless design. While it shares some similarities with the Top Time B31, such as the COSC Chronometer certification and a focus on precision, it differs in several aspects. The Datejust features a date display, a wider range of case sizes, and a more classic, elegant design.
| Feature | Breitling Top Time B31 | Rolex Datejust | |--------------------------|-----------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------| | Movement | In-house B31 caliber, 4 Hz, 78h power reserve | Rolex automatic calibers (e.g., 3235) with ~70h power reserve | | Chronometer Certification| COSC certified | COSC certified | | Functionality | Time-only (no date) | Time and date display | | Case size | 38mm, retro-inspired proportions | Typically 36mm to 41mm, classic dress/sport style | | Design | Retro-modern, sporty casual | Classic, elegant with iconic fluted bezel option | | Power Reserve | 78 hours | Approx. 70 hours | | Price positioning | Premium, but generally more accessible than Rolex | Luxury, premium segment |
A Vintage-Inspired Watch for Modern Times
The Top Time B31 offers a niche blend of retro style with a technically advanced in-house movement, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts seeking a sporty, vintage-inspired watch with modern technical innovation. The watch is available now on Breitling's website, and can be paired with a three-row stainless steel link bracelet with a lever-operated micro-adjustment system or a perforated racing-style leather strap.
The new Top Time B31 is priced at $5,600 ($5,900 on the steel bracelet), which is over two grand less than the cheapest chronograph Top Time watch. This makes the Top Time B31 a more accessible choice for those looking for a high-quality, vintage-inspired timepiece from Breitling.
[1] Breitling Top Time B31 Official Page [2] Breitling Top Time B31 on WatchTime [3] Breitling Top Time B31 on Hodinkee [4] Breitling Top Time B31 on Fratello Watches
The Top Time B31's blending of modern technical advances and design cues with the heritage of the Top Time line creates a unique style that appeals to both vintage enthusiasts and modern watch collectors. Additionally, this retro-modern watch can be paired not only with a three-row stainless steel link bracelet but also with a home-and-garden-appropriate perforated racing-style leather strap, making it a versatile addition to a varied lifestyle, including technology-focused environments and home-and-garden settings.
