Introducing the new Breitling Premier Duograph 42
Thursday - 08 April 2021
Breitling reinvigorates its classic split-second rattrapante watch from the 1940s with the Premier Duograph 42, offered in two new dial colours and case materials.
What could be better news than the revival of a highly sought-after 1940’s Breitling watch? The Swiss brand unveils two new additions to the Premier watch collection – both of which utilise a new manually-wound movement but are offered in the original no-date format and fit nicely into Breitling’s new vintage-inspired line-up belonging to the Premier Heritage watch collection. The two variants comprise a stainless steel iteration with a sunburst blue dial and a luxurious 18ct rose gold version with an inky black dial.
The first split-seconds chronograph fitted with an in-house movement was the Navitimer Rattrapante watch released just a few years back and whilst the two new Breitling Duograph watches rely also on an in-house movement, they don’t mark the brand’s second in-house rattrapante as such. This is because the Calibre B15 is already a sturdy, tried and tested movement based on the architecture of the B03 movement – a descendant of the original B01 movement. That said, Breitling acquired two patents to develop its rattrapante mechanic back in 2017. Just like the original Duograph, these two new Breitling Premier watches feature a pusher integrated into the 3 o’clock crown, enabling the chronograph seconds hand to be split and re-joined as opposed to the need for any 10 o’clock pusher (a feature often seen in other split-second chronographs on the market). The standard chronograph functions can be started, stopped and reset by the traditional 2 and 4 o’clock pushers – each one having been beautifully curved to create a cushion shape that seamlessly complements the rest of the Duograph’s vintage-inspired design. Giving the wearer the chance to time two events at the same time, the Duograph name was given to Breitling chronographs with the rattrapante complication. The pusher at 2 o’clock activates both the chronograph hands, the crown button stops the second hand and then catches up to the other hand once pushed again.
Cases in traditional steel or Precious 18ct rose gold...
Due to the extra mechanics of the engine, Breitling’s new Premier Duograph watches measure a slightly larger diameter of 42mm compared to older models. Both the 18ct rose gold and stainless steel versions are equipped with 100-meter water resistance and feature the sapphire-backed case for admiring the Manufacture Calibre B15 at work. The front of the case is also equipped with the same strong sapphire crystal glass – glare-proofed on both sides, of course, to promote a clear view into the dial without the undesirable glare from the sun or artificial lighting.
A display true to the original..
The dial of the new Breitling Premier Duograph 42 is classic and loaded with vintage charm. The applied Arabic numerals representing the hour track are joined by the applied Breitling name and the “B” logo taking residence in its usual stance towards the top of the dial. In addition to this, the 3 o’clock counter offers a 30-minute totalizer and is balanced by a small second sub-counter on the opposite side. The Duograph lettering towards the south of the dial is stylized in a different font. Also note, the tracks of the sub-counters are ridged, creating textural contrast against the sunburst effect on both the black and blue dial versions of the Duograph. Both the chronograph second hands on each dial are characterised by different counterweights, enabling each one to be followed carefully. The central minute and hour hands, along with the Arabic numeral hour markers have also been treated with a layer of Super-LumiNova to enhance readability during the night.
A rare view…
The new Breitling Premier Duograph watches are powered by the Manufacture Calibre B15, which offers an impressive 70-hour power reserve and beats to the rhythm of 28,800 vibrations per hour. Interestingly, the arrangement of the traditional gearing and inox steel split-seconds wheel of the rattrapante mechanism is not put on show through the exhibition caseback. Instead, these are placed between the date wheel and mainplate. Traditionally, Rattrapante mechanisms work on a pair of pincers to freeze the central second hand, disengaging the fine-toothed rattrapante wheel - and although performing on the same concept – the insight offered into Breitling’s prestigious manufacture through the watch’s sapphire-backed case certainly demonstrates the Swiss brand’s innovative flair for doing things a very different way. Secondly, the cylindrical pin has been replaced by a lever that acts as a separation system, isolating the stopped wheel from the gear train. As a result, friction is reduced and efficiency is enhanced. Worth the price tag alone just to catch a glimpse of the movement in operation, the Calibre B15 - like all hand-wound movements - offers a more generous view of the engine without the spinning rotor of an automatic movement in its way.
If you’re into your classic chronographs, the new Breitling Premier Duograph won’t disappoint. Held in high regard for its complexity, Breitling rattrapante watches like this will always remain highly coveted collectables. At the same time, either will constitute a unique talking point to wear with your best attire. The stainless steel Breitling Premier Duograph 42 is priced at £7.,700 and completed on a brown alligator leather strap with a steel foldable clasp. The 18ct rose gold Duograph with black dial is presented on a matching black alligator leather strap with an 18ct rose gold folding clasp and is priced at £15,900. For more details, or to explore our exclusive online finance options here at Jura Watches, call a member of our sales team today on 01335 453453.
