The Breitling Avi Ref. 765 1953 Re-Edition

Breitling launched the very first Ref. 765 AVI pilots watch in 1953. This aviation timepiece was known as the “Co-Pilot” as it was a favourite among aviators thanks to its awe-inspiring yet understated look. The look of the 1950’s Co-pilot watches drew inspiration from the on-board clocks designed by Breitling’s Huit Aviation Department during the 1930s and 1940s. 

This year, Breitling is honoring this classic timepiece by bringing it back into production with a modern touch, with the release of the AVI Ref. 765 1953 Re-Edition. The AVI Ref. 765 co-exists alongside the Breitling Navitimer; both iconic pilots watches with two different outlooks. The Navitimer is well known for its slide rule and numerous flight calculations that can be done from the watch. The AVI Ref. 765 is best known as having sturdy construction as well as being more simplistic in design, which ultimately gives more superior legibility and proving itself to be just as reliable as an aviation timepiece as the Navitimer is for pilots. 

The Breitling AVI Ref. 765 1953 Re-Edition has a 41.1mm stainless steel case and a bezel which is secured by three screws that are placed precisely in the same locations as the original 1953 AVI Ref. 765. Breitling has taken every step possible so that every minute attention to detail is as close as possible to the original 1953 model. 

The Arabic numerals used on the 2020 Re-edition is the same as the original, with even the hand-applied SuperLuminova having the same colour. The syringe style hour hands along with the domed hesalite crystal have all been shaped precisely the same as the original. The only visual difference from the original 1953 edition, is that the word “Geneve” on the dial is removed on the 2020 re-edition.

The engine behind the AVI Ref. 765 Re-edition is Breitling’s Manufacture Calibre B09. This Calibre B09 is a manually wound mechanical chronograph movement which is created in-house by Breitling. 

The B09 movement powers the three counters in the 3-6-9 layout on the dial, while also giving out a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. Breitling’s calibre B09 movement is based on the brand’s own in-house B01 movement and has been designed with re-editions in mind. Like most other Breitling movements, the B09 calibre is COSC certified. 

Breitling enthusiasts will be keeping a close eye on this one. With the release of the re-edition, its once again a chance to wear a part of history on your wrist. The AVI Ref. 765 1953 Re-edition is limited to 1953 pieces, each of which is engraved “ONE of 1953”. Breitling will also release the AVI Ref. 765 1953 Re-edition in two precious metal variations. The first is made from 18K red gold and will have a limited run of 253 pieces. It will also have engraved “ONE of 253” on the case back. The other precious material is platinum; however, this time, the dial will be changed to blue colour. This impressive piece will only be limited to 153 pieces, with it also getting “ONE of 153” engraved on the case-back.