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Breitling is no stranger to a racing inspired watch. Its history with the sport traces back to the debut of its Top Time collection back in 1964. Over the years the brand has most notably worked with Bentley Motors to create automotive-inspired wristwatches and dashboard-style clocks. In addition, we’ve seen Breitling commemorate several iconic models through its Top Time Classic Cars line, like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Corvette, and Shelby Cobra.
Earlier this year, Breitling made a pivot, announcing it was teaming up with Aston Martin and the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team as the official watch partner. The duo’s first timepiece was the limited-edition Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 with a titanium case, carbon-fiber dial, and Aston Martin racing green accents. Now, we get another edition as Breitling gets back to its original racing roots with three new Top Time models that pay tribute to the Aston Martin DB5.
The DB5 hailed from the same era as the original Top Time and was first introduced by Aston Martin in 1963. The model became one of the most iconic cars to grace the silver screen, namely films in the James Bond franchise, and cemented the luxury carmaker’s place in both automotive and pop culture history. Today, the two brands bring this spirit of the 60s into the modern era with the new Top Time B01 Chronograph 41 Tribute to Aston Martin DB5 in a trio of limited editions.
The details of the new designs marry the codes of both makers with both tactile and aesthetic elements. For instance, the cushion-shaped case, grooved corners, and mushroom pushers echo the distinctive profile of the 1960s chronograph. Alternatively, elements like the “squircle” subdials capture the look of classic car dashboard gauges, the wooden inner ring draws on the DB5’s steering wheel, and the hand-colored gradient leather strap reflects the depth and tone of fine automotive upholstery.
The collection consists of three distinct 41mm options in different limited edition runs. The first and most sober is a classic stainless steel with a silver dial that’s closest to the spirit of the original Top Time Ref. 2002 and fittingly produced in a run of just 1,022 pieces. The other two iterations are a bit more extravagant, perfectly balancing the sportiness of the chronograph with the luxuriousness of the DB5. There’s a stainless steel and platinum version with a black lacquer dial, limited to 315 pieces. Last but not least, Breitling presents an 18-karat rose gold edition with an onyx dial, marking the first use of the stone in the brand’s catalog. This style is the most exclusive, offered in only 250 examples.
Powering each of the three designs is the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01. This COSC-certified chronograph movement features a column-wheel architecture and vertical clutch, ensuring both smooth and accurate performance. In addition, the caliber offers a 70-hour power reserve. The B01 is visible in all its glory through an exhibition caseback and is complete with an Aston Martin engraved rotor. For more information, head over directly to Breitling.
