Introduced: 1998
Purpose / Inspiration: Developed as a professional multifunction chronograph for pilots, the B-1 was designed to be a true flight instrument on the wrist—combining digital versatility with Breitling’s bold analog identity. It was the forerunner to today’s Professional line.
Designer: Created under the Schneider family era, with a focus on practical aviation utility. Later refined into the Chronospace line.
Materials & Features:
- 43mm stainless steel case, bi-directional rotating bezel with slide rule scale.
- Dual LCD displays with backlight, paired with analog hands—controlled via multi-function crown and pushers.
- Functions included: chronograph, countdown timer, alarm, UTC, dual time zone, calendar, and audible alerts.
- Powered by the Breitling Caliber B78 (based on ETA Thermoline SuperQuartz)—ultra-accurate and temp-compensated.
Discontinuation Status: Discontinued in 2006, replaced by the Airwolf, and later Chronospace. Still prized by collectors for its function-forward tool-watch appeal.
Pilot-Built, Not Just Pilot-Inspired: Designed for those who fly—not those who just want to look like they do.
Brains + Brawn: SuperQuartz tech hidden inside a tough-as-nails steel case.
Analog-Digital Done Right: Nothing flashy—just a cockpit’s worth of tools in one wristwatch.
The Pre-Smartwatch Smart Tool: It didn’t need Bluetooth. It needed to work—every single time.