Breitling – a new benchmark in the art of watchmaking

Breitling was founded in 1884 by Léon Breitling in Saint-Imier and is now one of the leading Swiss watch manufacturers. As an innovative pioneer, the company is considered the inventor of the modern chronograph and a benchmark in functional timepieces for navigation. In the 1930s, Breitling began focusing more on aviation, developing instruments and watches tailored to pilots. This connection to aviation gradually became a cornerstone of the brand’s identity. Breitling’s breakthrough in this field came in 1952 with the launch of the Navitimer, a standout model equipped with a slide rule allowing pilots to perform navigation calculations directly on the wrist. 

Though now part of a larger corporate group, Breitling retains the spirit of an independent family business. The brand remains deeply rooted in its heritage, continuing to honor and preserve its legacy. In recent years, Breitling has also focused on sustainability, working to reduce its environmental impact by using recycled materials and eco-friendly packaging. These values help define Breitling as a forward-thinking force in the luxury watch market. 

As a relaxed, inclusive, and sustainable luxury brand, Breitling is setting new standards. Today, it operates over 200 retail locations worldwide, all designed in an industrial loft style. Breitling’s collections are perfect for air, land, and sea activities, each featuring the brand’s signature modern-retro aesthetic. The outstanding quality of each movement is confirmed by its COSC certification, and Breitling remains one of the few independent watchmakers to produce its own in-house calibers. By blending classic watchmaking with modern innovation, Breitling stays true to its history while always looking ahead.

In 2024, Breitling celebrates its 140th anniversary. Through the campaign “140 Years of Firsts,” the brand honors historic milestones that shaped the watchmaking world. Throughout the year, Breitling will share famous and lesser-known stories behind the innovations that changed everything – and the people who envisioned and perfected them.