Introduced: 1995
Purpose / Inspiration: Designed as the world’s first wristwatch with a built-in personal locator beacon (PLB), the Emergency was made for pilots, adventurers, and search-and-rescue personnel. If you crash, go down, or disappear—this watch could save your life. Literally.
Designer: Developed under Ernest Schneider, in partnership with aerospace and military rescue agencies, after recognizing a real-world need during Breitling’s aviation outreach.
Materials & Features:
- Case: Titanium for lightweight strength, sized at 43mm (original) and 51mm (Emergency II)
- Movement:
- Original Emergency: SuperQuartz (cal. 76), with analog-digital display
- Emergency II (2013): Dual-frequency transmitter (121.5 MHz + 406 MHz), independent rechargeable battery for the beacon, COSC-certified chronometer movement
- Emergency function: Unscrew antenna caps, pull out twin extendable antennas—activates distress signal monitored by Cospas-Sarsat satellite system
- Other features: Chronograph, alarm, dual time zone, countdown timer, digital calendar, backlight
Discontinuation Status:
- Original Emergency: Phased out after 2009
- Emergency II: Still in limited production as of latest data, though supply is tightly controlled due to regulatory and export restrictions
The Only Watch That Could Save Your Life: No metaphor. No hype. Real distress beacon, real rescues.
Worn by Pilots, Soldiers, and Search Teams: Not for style—for survival.
A Tool First, Watch Second: This isn’t jewelry. It’s a rescue plan on your wrist.
Regulated, Certified, Respected: Approved by aviation authorities around the globe.