The Breitling Navitimer is an iconic timepiece, a legend in the world of aviation watches and a coveted piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its circular slide rule bezel, instantly recognizable design, and rich history make it a true classic. However, the specific model, the Breitling Navitimer B13356 hand-wound without a date display, presents a unique set of challenges and rewards, leading to a complex relationship for its owner. This article delves into the nuances of this particular watch, exploring its appeal alongside the frustrations it can evoke, drawing on experiences shared online and examining its place within the broader context of the Navitimer lineage.
My own experience with the Navitimer B13356 handaufzug ohne Datumanzeige is one of conflicted admiration. The sheer beauty and mechanical purity of the piece are undeniable. The satisfying feel of winding the movement, the precise click of the bezel, and the elegant simplicity of the dial are a constant source of pleasure. But the lack of a quick-set date function is a significant drawback, a persistent irritant that constantly threatens to overshadow the watch's many virtues. This is a feeling echoed by many owners in online forums and discussions, as we'll see later.
The absence of a quick-set date mechanism means setting the date on the B13356 is a laborious process. One must painstakingly advance the time, hour by hour, until the desired date appears. This is not a quick task, and it becomes especially cumbersome when adjusting the time after a period of inactivity. This is a stark contrast to many modern watches, even mechanical ones, which offer a convenient quick-set date function, streamlining the process considerably. This fundamental difference highlights the divergence between vintage-inspired designs and modern conveniences. The B13356 embraces its heritage, but that heritage comes with a price – a price paid in time and patience.
This inherent inconvenience leads to the central dilemma of owning this particular Navitimer: the constant balancing act between appreciating its vintage charm and enduring the practical limitations. The question of whether to keep the watch constantly running on a watch winder becomes a recurring one. Leaving it unwound means the painstaking date-setting ritual every time it's worn, while keeping it on a winder feels counterintuitive to the spirit of a hand-wound mechanical watch. Many owners, myself included, find themselves caught in this loop, constantly questioning the best approach. The desire to maintain the watch's inherent mechanical beauty and avoid the potential wear and tear associated with constant running clashes with the practicality of having a readily usable timepiece.
current url：https://atygvy.squadlabel.com/news/breitling-navitimer-b13356-handaufzug-ohne-datumanzeige-88745