The Breitling Calibre 73 is a fascinating example of horological engineering, a movement that stands apart from its more common counterparts due to its distinctive date-setting mechanism. Unlike most modern watches with their convenient quickset date function, the Calibre 73 employs a purely mechanical approach, offering a glimpse into a more traditional, albeit slightly more involved, method of adjusting the date. This article will delve into the intricacies of the Calibre 73, comparing and contrasting it with other Breitling movements, particularly the more widely known Calibre 13, and exploring its presence within the broader context of Breitling’s prestigious Navitimer and Chronomat lines. We will also touch upon the market value and availability of watches featuring this unique movement.
The Calibre 73's primary function, of course, is to accurately measure and display time. Its hour, minute, and seconds hands function flawlessly, just as they do in countless other automatic movements. However, the date complication is where the Calibre 73 distinguishes itself. Instead of the common quickset mechanism, which allows for rapid adjustment of the date via the crown, the Calibre 73 relies on a more traditional, step-by-step approach. This means that to advance the date, one must repeatedly adjust the time, typically advancing the hour hand until the desired date is reached. While this might seem cumbersome compared to the instantaneous adjustment of a quickset date, it’s a testament to the watchmaker's dedication to a purely mechanical solution, adding a certain charm and a touch of old-world craftsmanship. This method also avoids the potential complexities and vulnerabilities inherent in a quickset mechanism, contributing to the overall robustness of the movement.
This deliberate omission of a quickset date is not a flaw, but rather a design choice that reflects a particular philosophy. It speaks to a desire to maintain a certain level of mechanical purity, prioritizing the integrity of the movement over the convenience afforded by modern date-setting mechanisms. This contrasts sharply with the more commonly found quickset date feature present in many modern automatic movements, including Breitling's own Calibre 13.
The Breitling Calibre 13, a workhorse movement used in many of Breitling's iconic chronograph watches, presents a stark contrast to the Calibre 73. The Calibre 13 is an automatic chronograph movement known for its reliability and performance. It incorporates a quickset date function, making date adjustment a simple and straightforward process. Watches featuring the Calibre 13, such as the Breitling 13 automatic chronograph and the Breitling Chronometre Navitimer B13356, are widely appreciated for their blend of precision and ease of use. The difference in date-setting mechanisms highlights the diverse range of approaches Breitling has taken in its movement design, catering to different preferences and priorities.
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