Breitling, a brand synonymous with aviation and precision, has always been a torchbearer of its illustrious heritage. The Navitimer, the Chronomat, the SuperOcean, and the Premier – these iconic collections have consistently paid homage to Breitling’s significant historical models. While embracing the timeless design cues from its past, Breitling continually evolves, incorporating modern and sophisticated movements, including the groundbreaking in-house B01 movement.
The Avenger collection, on the other hand, is a more recent phenomenon, introduced in 2001. It’s a distinctively modern interpretation of Breitling’s legacy. Although it draws inspiration from Breitling’s older collections, the Avenger maintains a youthful and utilitarian edge that sets it apart.
Breitling’s latest move in 2023 is aimed at refining and refreshing the Avenger range. The collection now features a more streamlined selection of case diameters and models, as well as an array of exciting new colors and materials. In this article, we’ll delve into the 2023 Breitling Avenger collection, breaking down the updates and offerings across its three primary formats: the 44mm chronograph, the 44mm automatic GMT, and the 42mm three-hander.
Breitling Avenger B01 Chronograph 44 & B01 Chronograph 44 Night Mission
The centerpiece of the new Avenger collection is the Avenger B01 Chronograph 44, powered by Breitling’s in-house B01 movement. This represents a slight consolidation of the range, as it’s available in a 44mm case, compared to the previous 43 or 45mm options. Breitling, known for its larger timepieces, has embraced a more approachable size without sacrificing its signature style.
The core models feature matte-colored dials in blue, green, black, or sand, complemented by black azuraged subdials and a date window at 6 o’clock. The sand model stands out as particularly striking. The Avenger’s bezel has also been revamped, with 5-second increments now added alongside the 15-second indicators on the bezel’s “rider tabs.” Circular studs on the bezel resemble the design of the current-generation Super Chronomat.
What’s truly remarkable are the two new B01 Chronograph 44 Night Mission models. In a departure from the previous Night Missions with black DLC titanium cases, these models feature black ceramic cases, a first for Breitling, along with forged carbon fiber dials. These models now also incorporate the B01 movement.
The Night Mission models have seen a significant reduction in size, with the previous generation at a whopping 48mm in diameter. The new 44mm case size not only adds practicality but also, with the use of ceramic, reduces weight. The Breitling Avenger B01 Chronograph 44 Night Mission undoubtedly takes the spotlight in this collection, both visually and technically.
Breitling Avenger Automatic GMT 44
The Avenger Automatic GMT 44 offers two models, available in blue or black. It features a redesigned bezel with 24-hour markers, enhancing its functionality compared to previous Avenger GMT models that shared the time-only and chronograph’s timing bezel design. Regrettably, the Night Mission version of the GMT has been discontinued.
With a 44mm case, slightly smaller than the previous 45mm, the Breitling Avenger Automatic GMT 44 is powered by the Breitling Calibre 32, based on the ETA 2893-2. Like all the new Avengers (excluding the Night Missions), it offers options for a color-matched military leather strap or a three-row bracelet.
Breitling Avenger Automatic 42
The smallest member of the new Avenger collection, the Automatic 42, has seen its case size reduced by 1mm. It’s available in black, green, or blue, offering a more focused color range compared to previous generations of three-handed Avengers. This model is equipped with Breitling’s Caliber 17, based on the venerable ETA 2824-2.
These are all available now from anywhere you can grab a Breitling with prices starting at A$6,390.
