The Breitling Navitimer steals a lot of the limelight, but it's always played second fiddle to the original slide-rule aviators watch - the Breitling Chronomat.  

In point of fact, the Chronomat was actually the second slide-rule watch ever to be produced, patented the same year as the Mimo-Loga, the first pilot's watch to incorporate the slide-rule bezel.  However, the Mimo-Loga enjoyed a very small production run and has never taken on much favor with collectors.  

While the Mimo-Loga beat Breitling to the slid-rule function, Breitling's Chronomat included a chronograph feature with a 45-minute minute counter - a highly useful complication for any pilot of the era - and a manufacturing quality that many feel outshined the competition.

Originally coming in steel and plated cases with square pushers, the Chronomat was a sizable piece that set itself apart as a sturdy and reliable co-pilot throughout the war and became so well received that it led to the production of the civilian-grade Navitimer in 1954.

This example, with its clean white dial with red accents and matching minute-counting and chronograph sweep hand, is a stellar 1970s expression, hallmarked by the block Breitling logo and round chronograph pushers.  And weighing in at just over 36mm, it makes for an excellent wear without being too bulky.  In excellent condition and running perfectly, this one is sure to make you look twice at vintage pilots watches on which modern-day Breitling has built itself.