Breitling’s automotive racing team welcomes its newest member: the Top Time B01 Ford Thunderbird. It is the fourth model to join the 1960s-inspired Top Time Classic Cars collection. With its prominent tail fin, rock-solid construction, and luxury features, the Ford Thunderbird, first unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in 1954, made automotive history. The convertible promised fun driving for extended joyrides that fitted the new feeling of freedom that blossomed in that era. Today, the two first generations, “Classic Bird” (1955-1957) and “Square Bird” (1958-1960) are particularly sought after.
The new Breitling Top Time B01 Classic Cars Collection_CMYK (from left to right: Top Time B01 Ford Mustang, Top Time B01 Ford Thunderbird, Top Time B01 Shelby Cobra, Top Time B01 Chevrolet Corvette)
The new Breitling Replica Top Time B01 Classic Cars Collection from left to right: Top Time B01 Ford Mustang, Top Time B01 Ford Thunderbird, Top Time B01 Shelby Cobra, Top Time B01 Chevrolet Corvette
The Thunderbirds served as a template for the new addition to the Top Time Classic Car line, which Breitling introduced as a Capsule Collection in 2021. It pays homage to the 1960s Top Time Chronograph, a child of Willy Breitling, and consists of three motorsport chronographs inspired respectively by the Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Mustang, and Shelby Cobra. While the first generation sported colorful dials in red, blue, and green, the Top Time B01 Ford Thunderbird is more subdued with a white, naturally luminescent dial.
02_Breitling Top Time B01 Ford Thunderbird_Ref. AB01766A1A1X1_CMYK
The red racing-style leather strap and the color-coordinated chronograph hands, as well as a partial section on the tachymeter scale, add a radiant splash. Also on board are the square, slightly rounded sub dials in tricompax layout, reminiscent of dashboard instruments. They are slightly recessed and emphasize the expressive retro look. Below the twelve, the Thunderbird logo is applied in petrol green. The lettering above the twelve-hour counter refers to the Top Time origin. As with its predecessors, the design of the dial is balanced and is highly recognizable.
02_Breitling Top Time B01 Ford Thunderbird_Ref. AB01766A1A1X1_CMYK
This also applies to the Top Time-style stainless steel case, which is now pressure-tested to ten bar with a narrow bezel that surrounds the wide dial and is essential for a true motorsport replica watches. The chronograph pushers, too, are stylishly mushroom-shaped and underscore the vintage charm. However, in line with current trends, Breitling introduces a new diameter to the collection with the Thunderbird, measuring 41 mm.
Breitling Top Time B01 Ford Thunderbird_caseback_Ref. AB01766A1A1X1_CMYK
Breitling Top Time B01 Ford Thunderbird case back
Whereas the previously available chronographs were powered by Breitling’s caliber 41 and 25, both Sellita-based, Breitling’s prestige movement, the B01, now runs as a powerful engine under the hood. Introduced in 2009, the manufacture caliber scores with a COSC chronometer certificate and a power autonomy of 70 hours. This self-winding movement features a column wheel control and a vertical clutch. Thanks to all these features, Breitling can provide a five-year warranty on its prestige caliber. It goes without saying that the B01 is revealed in all its beauty through the sapphire crystal case back, including the Ford Tunderbird logo, emblematic of the enthusiasm for history and timekeeping.
In 2018, Omega introduced its then-latest Seamaster Diver 300M – larger, and in new materials, ceramic and titanium, rendering it more scratch-resistant and lighter in weight. In this feature from the WatchTime archives, we delve into the depths of the timepiece and its Master Chronometer movement.
To mark the 25th anniversary of the Seamaster Diver 300M in 2018, Omega made a huge splash by issuing a new version – updated and modernized with higher quality features and more functionality than ever before, and still at a fair price (click here for a review of that watch). This watch was first introduced as a steel model with a varnished dial, an ETA-based Omega Caliber 2500 and a folding clasp with a divers’ extension that cost around $3,500. The newer generation offers a laser-cut ceramic dial, the super-modern in-house 8800 movement and an improved clasp with additional quick-action extension at a price of $5,200. Unchanged, of course, are the skeletonized sword-shaped hands, water resistance to 300 meters, a helium-escape valve at 10 o’clock and a metal bracelet. The overall diameter of the watch was enlarged from 41 to 42 mm.
Modern Materials For the newer models, Omega took the next step. The Seamaster Diver 300M is now available as a scratch-resistant and more lightweight model in ceramic and titanium. This watch, which we tested, is available on a rubber strap with a ceramic prong buckle or on a NATO strap with a brushed buckle and a titanium loop. (For either version, watch fans must accept a considerable jump in price, to $8,100.) The newest edition has a 43.5-mm case and a nicely balanced dial, omitting the date indication at 6 o’clock. Also, the stylized waves are not laser cut into a polished dial but now stand out in relief with alternating polished and matte surfaces.
Ceramic characterizes the entire design. Not only does the dial have polished and matte sections, so does the case with its ergonomically shaped lugs. Particularly pleasing is that Omega uses the same ceramic material for the prong buckle and also for the curving shapes of the case.
The rubber strap attaches seamlessly to the case and continues the fluid lines of the lugs. Running along its length are three wide matte strips and two raised strips with a brushed- finish look. The material appears at first to be quite thin, but once it’s on, the strap feels great, and despite the large case size, the watch fits perfectly, even on narrow wrists. The strap material may feel uncomfortable on really warm days – even Omega has yet to discover anything to prevent perspiration.
High Quality Overall Every component – from the ceramic dial and brushed titanium hands, the ceramic and titanium case, and even the rubber strap with its ceramic buckle – displays the highest quality and reminds us that Omega Replica has long been a top brand among watch manufacturers.
Turning the watch over reveals even more of its superior quality. The first thing you may notice is the engraved lettering, “Diver 300M,” which is always centered thanks to a patented bayonet closure known as the Naiad lock. Then your eye may be drawn to the polished wavelike notches along the edge of the caseback that encircle the brushed inner ring. And then you’re rewarded with a view of the beating heart of the watch – the accurate, individually decorated and fully antimagnetic in-house 8806 movement.
This variation of the 8800 caliber has no date indication. The technical advantages remain the same – the oscillating weight winds the watch in both directions to provide an above-average power reserve of 55 hours. The silicon hairspring ensures very good rate results even when subjected to the effects of fluctuating temperatures and impacts. The balance wheel is fastened more securely beneath a bridge so that, thanks to poising weights, the oscillating system “breathes” freely. And last but not least, the Omega co-axial escapement with its multilevel pallets and escape wheel ensures a consistent transfer of impulse for even better rate results.
Master Chronometer All the constructive advantages of the company’s own in-house movements meant that Omega was no longer satisfied with the rate tests conducted by the official Swiss testing agency COSC. For the past several years, Omega has subjected its watches to additional testing by METAS, the Swiss national metrology institute. Here, the fully assembled timepieces undergo tests for functional reliability, rate results, water resistance, power reserve and resistance to extreme magnetic fields of 15,000 gauss.
A watch that passes all of these tests is certified by METAS as a Master Chronometer. Due to the large number of watches Omega produces, the testing agency has established an office in the Omega building in Bienne. The independence of the tests, ensured by both contractual partners, is guaranteed at all times.
And our test watch? It performed as promised, both on the timing machine and on the wrist. The electronic test showed a rate of +3.8 seconds per day and only +3 seconds on the wrist. Values in the individual positions showed only a 2-second deviation – something that very few watch brands have achieved in our tests.
Over and Under Water Anyone who wants to wear the Seamaster Diver 300M as an everyday watch will be thrilled with its comfortable feel, the accuracy of the in-house movement, and the fact that the ceramic prong buckle remains completely free of scratches even after weeks of wear. Our real-life test in the early summer months showed that it is reliable and comfortable to wear while swimming, playing tennis and biking.
And anyone who actually dives with a luxury watch will appreciate the brightly glowing luminescent coating, the high degree of water resistance (to a depth of 300 meters), and the scratch-resistant case material that neither coral nor the metal parts of the diving equipment can harm.
Of course, the watch is only suitable for warm diving locations where no wet suit is needed because of its standard-length rubber strap. And when you don’t need to wear diving gloves, the polished surfaces on the rotating bezel are less of an issue. While even a diving titan cannot do everything, this one can still do quite a lot.
Bob’s Watches is proud to offer a lifelong collection of Navy memorabilia, including a ref. 1675 Pepsi Rolex GMT- Master, from Thomas Francis Finley Jr., a United States Navy veteran who served for 28 years and retired as a Navy Captain.
We initially got in contact with Tom over the summer regarding his GMT Master and when we heard the extraordinary story we knew it needed to be told. That is why we created the Apollo 14 Ocean Recovery auction, featuring a vintage Rolex 1675 among other special items. The auction is organized as a single-lot auction to showcase this amazing story and piece of history and, in the process, find a new guardian for his priceless collection.
Tom joined the Navy in October 1966 and piloted the H3 helicopter throughout his career. He was involved with various special operations, including the retrieval of the astronauts from Apollo 14 after splashing down in the South Pacific Ocean on February 9, 1971.
Tom served a crucial role in the recovery of the Apollo 14 mission as he was the co-pilot of the helicopter that picked up the astronauts. Apollo 14 was the eighth crewed mission by the United States and the third to land on the Moon. The prime crew members were Alan B. Shepard Jr., Edgar D. Mitchell, and Stuart A. Roosa. It was on this mission that a famous video was recorded, depicting NASA astronaut Alan Shepard hitting a golf ball from the lunar surface using a makeshift club.
After splashing down in the South Pacific, the astronauts were transported by Tom’s helicopter to the USS New Orleans, which was the prime recovery vessel. From the USS New Orleans, the astronauts were then flown by Tom and his crew to Pago-Pago in American Samoa.
Tom is now a volunteer at the USS Midway in San Diego and has been a docent for the last 17 years and an instructor on the ship for the last 15 years. He has logged nearly 8,000 volunteer hours aboard. Tom is ready to part with these possessions he has cared for over the last decades and for them to have a new caretaker.
We recently visited Tom onsite at the USS Midway, where an HS3 Helicopter similar to the one he flew during the Apollo 14 recovery mission is parked. It was an honor to interview him about this lot aboard the prestigious ship.
A Watch and Jacket: Symbols of a Career in the Skies
Tom’s vintage Rolex GMT Master and flight jacket are among the most stand-out items in this lot. However, he is also parting with other remarkable items associated with his Navy career, including photos of him wearing the watch, which is clearly recognizable as a famous Rolex Pepsi GMT, as well as other photos Tom took himself with his Kodak Instamatic camera on the day of the recovery.
The original aviator’s flight book Tom used to log his missions also outlines the Apollo 14 recovery assignment, which he has so kindly tabbed to make it easier for its new owner to find. The mission is distinguished by the code “IPO,” which stands for “Foreign Search & Rescue Special Operation.” Tom’s role during the mission is detailed even further in the accompanying flight schedule from that day.
Cruise books are like yearbooks, traditionally produced by US Navy ships after long deployments. The cruise book made for the USS New Orleans where Tom Finley was stationed, also called “The Moon Book,” is a unique piece of history that only adds to the value and collectability of this entire lot. Both of his photos in the book are marked off for easy reference.
Omega watches are known for their exceptional craftsmanship, precision, and timeless appeal. However, their steep price tags often place them out of reach for many watch enthusiasts. Replica Omega watches offer a more accessible option, allowing individuals to experience the allure of owning a luxury timepiece without breaking the bank. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the popularity of replica Omega watches, their attention to detail, the ethical considerations involved, and their impact on the watch industry.
Accessible Luxury Replica Omega watches provide an opportunity for individuals to enjoy the luxury and prestige associated with the Omega brand at a more affordable price. These replicas offer a similar design aesthetic to the original watches, allowing watch enthusiasts to experience the elegance and style that Omega is renowned for without the high price tag.
Attention to Detail Manufacturers of replica Omega watches strive to replicate the intricate details found in authentic Omega timepieces. From the design of the case and dial to the movement and functionality of the watch, replicas aim to closely resemble the originals. While they may not possess the same level of craftsmanship as genuine Omegas, replicas still capture the essence of the brand’s iconic designs.
Varied Quality and Selection It is important to note that the quality and selection of replica Omega watches can vary greatly. Some manufacturers invest in high-quality materials and craftsmanship, providing replicas that closely resemble the original watches in terms of both appearance and performance. However, others may produce lower-quality replicas, compromising on materials and accuracy. It is crucial for buyers to research and choose reputable manufacturers to ensure a satisfactory product.
Ethical Considerations The replica watch industry faces ethical concerns due to copyright infringement and intellectual property violations. Omega invests significant resources into research, development, and innovation to create their distinctive timepieces. Replicas that imitate these designs without permission pose a challenge to the intellectual property rights of the original creators. It is important for consumers to be aware of these ethical implications when purchasing replica Omega watches.
Impact on the Watch Industry The rise in popularity of replica Omega watches has had an impact on the watch industry as a whole. The availability of affordable replicas has created a parallel market, attracting customers who may not have considered owning an authentic Omega due to its high price. This has prompted luxury watch brands to emphasize the exclusivity, heritage, and craftsmanship associated with their products, distinguishing themselves from replicas.
Personal Choice and Enjoyment Ultimately, the decision to purchase a replica Omega watch is a personal one. Some individuals appreciate the opportunity to own a timepiece that resembles an Omega at a more affordable price, allowing them to enjoy the brand’s aesthetics and style. However, others may prioritize owning an authentic luxury watch and value the craftsmanship and prestige associated with it. It is important to acknowledge that replica Omega watches offer an accessible way to experience the allure of a luxury brand, but buyers should consider their own preferences and values before making a purchase.
Replica Omega watches provide a more accessible entry into the world of luxury timepieces, allowing individuals to experience the elegance and design of an Omega watch without the hefty price tag. However, buyers should be mindful of the ethical concerns surrounding replica production and carefully choose reputable manufacturers to ensure a satisfactory product. As the demand for replicas continues, the watch industry will continue to evolve, adapting to maintain the exclusivity and appeal of authentic luxury watches.
This week, the editorial team encounters the Breitling Superocean
Jordy Bellido
What jumped out at me on this Superocean was the great legibility provided by the indexes and hands. Ideal for diving, these almost oversized elements make it possible to read the time at a glance thanks to their substantial dimensions. This is especially important when diving with oxygen tanks, as it allows the wearer to know how much time he or she has left before having to return to the surface. The contrast of the white dial with the dark blue further enhances this legibility. The Superocean is therefore a coherent watch from a practical point of view.
Jean-Christophe Teigner
Superocean, Superwatch. This collection is a success and this watch is really beautiful. Not too imposing compared to the image I had of Breitling replica and especially for a diving watch. It fits very well on the wrist, the time is very readable, and as I mentioned before, it has a really good look. Its price is really very reasonable. The strap is easily adjustable so you won’t have any problems wearing the watch over a wetsuit. It has a water-resistance rating of 300 meters, and pragmatically speaking, you’re not likely to dive to those depths. But it allows you to feel extra secure about its seaworthiness, so don’t hesitate to jump into the water. The work done by the Breitling team is truly remarkable and something you can’t help but notice. We hear how Breitling sent their people into the water to test the watch in real-life conditions with Kelly Slater, the surfing legend. Good for them! In the end, I would have wanted to keep this watch on my wrist longer… but it’s unfortunately already time to pass it on to the next Team Tester.
Brice Lechevalier
Think Superocean, and you feel the fresh air of the Atlantic. This is the watch I would have needed for my holidays in Hossegor and Cap Ferret, on the French Atlantic coast, favoured places for sport-chic par excellence. This new Superocean is immediately endearing (by the way, its adjustable folding clasp is really practical), cheerful, very readable, elegant with a touch of casualness and a nod to vintage with its square minute hand. Breitling had the good idea to issue it in several colours and four sizes (from 36 to 46mm) in order to put it within reach of all wrists. You can’t go wrong with this blue and white version, but I also find the khaki one a great success.
Suzanne Wong
Ok, so this is obviously a dive watch. It comes from Breitling’s well-known Superocean collection, which any serious watch journalist should know intimately. It also has all the aesthetic codes of a dive watch, such as the luminous hands and markers in geometric shapes for easy reading underwater, the rotating bezel with high-friction circumference, sturdy case build and rubber strap. However, its contemporary design and stylish colour palette, paired with its robust construction, makes it the ideal travel companion, whether you’re heading under the waves or over the clouds.
Sophie Furley
The WorldTempus team test started out as a journalist review by our core team at HQ, where each of us wear the watch for 24 hours, take some wrist shots, and share our thoughts in this wonderful weekly article. But the concept has literally taken over the office as everyone from our accountant to our graphic designer pop into the editorial office on a Monday morning to see what we are testing. Even the guys at our sister magazine Skippers have become curious about what we are up to. Why am I telling you all this instead of giving you a review of the new Breitling Superocean? Well, as I am in charge of this column, and the safety of all watches concerned, I have to admit that I lost track of this best replica watch several times as it got past from colleague to colleague around the office. Never have I seen the team so excited to get their hands on a watch and try it on. So, instead of reiterate all the great comments above, I just had to share this story as it is a true test of appreciation from the wider watch world.
Explore underwater worlds with Panerai, brave icy mountain landscapes with Tudor, fear nothing of raging seas with Rolex… there’s still time to pick the watch for your summer adventures from Chronext
In the words of a wise man (whose name escapes me), “if you want to know what your timepiece is capable of, take it outdoors.” Indeed, whoever said a watch should spend its days locked away in a safe? If a Replica Rolex, a Tudor, a Panerai or a Breitling come at a (certain) price, it’s also because these are authentic tools, designed to go where we go and do what we do.
Tested to the limits In addition to vintage, Chronext carries certified pre-owned watches as well as new models, all provided with a 24-month Chronext warranty. Combined with the strict testing protocols in place at brands, you can rest assured that these are remarkably reliable tool watches.
For example, Rolex’s Superlative Chronometer standard, introduced in 2015, tests for water-resistance as well as resistance to shocks, temperature variations and magnetic fields.
At Panerai – a brand with historic ties to professional diving – a watch must be perfectly water-resistant. End of. Its watches are tested to official standards plus a 25% safety margin. The most extreme Submersibles can withstand 250 bar of pressure. To reach this limit, you would need to make a (very probably hypothetical) dive to 2,500 metres.
Ice axe or Sex on the beach? If you’re still searching for the watch that will make this summer the most memorable ever… don’t panic. Chronext has watches ready for delivery in time to make yours the best-dressed wrist on the beach. Take your pick!
Head for distant lands with watches that feature a multiple time zone display. Try the Rolex GMT Master II or the Breitling Transocean Chronograph Unitime.
Make a splash in the pool or swim with the fishes with the Rolex Sea-Dweller, the Rolex Submariner, the Omega Seamaster or the Panerai Luminor.
3. Reach new heights or explore terrae incognitae with chronographs such as the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms on a khaki-brown textile strap, the Omega Speedmaster Professional or the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona.
Conquer extreme environments with the Tudor Black Bay Pro or the Rolex Explorer II, à la Adrian Bark of Bark & Jack in Zermatt, striking a pose in front of (and one day maybe on) the Matterhorn.
While the combinations of watch + activity are virtually endless – this is just a small selection –, the final choice will always come down to that all-important factor: your personal taste!
116520LV, has Rolex ever released this Daytona watch? I searched on Google and found all result pages saying this is a replica. So, I think that Rolex did not make this watch at all, it only exists in replica watch world, just like Daytona II and Sea-Dweller D-Green, I do not know why our watch factories made these replicas whose genuine models do not exist. Whatever, they have rich imagination. Let’s back to this Daytona replica watch, we call it a green lizard because the watch features a green ceramic bezel and green subdials on the white dial. The replica Rolex Daytona is made by BL, which is a very small factory in our market, now they made this Daytona that is unknown in genuine watch field, I think they have some creativity. Maybe next time they will bring us another unexpected surprise.
Replica Rolex Daytona Green Ceramic Bezel
Why did BL factory name this Daytona 116520LV? I think they refer to the name of another Rolex watch, that is Submariner 116610LV, which also has a green ceramic bezel. This greey Daytona has a 40mm case that is measured to be 15mm in thickness, it is made of 316L stainless steel, not 904L stainless steel. I just posted the watch review on my blog and has not sold one, so if the watch has a good response from the market, maybe BL factory will upgrade the case steel material to 904L. Look at the photos, the case has a brushed face alternated with polishing. You can not operate the chronograph buttons unless they are unscrewed. Unfortunately, the back side of the lugs does not have engravings, while each genuine Rolex watch has, now you can see this tiny feature on the latest Daytona replica watches from Noob factory.
Replica Rolex Daytona Crown and Chronograph Buttons
The dial is white, three white subdials have green circles with silver white markers. The three small dials work accurately, they are small seconds hand at 6 o’clock, 30-minute chronograph counter at 3 o’clock and 12-hour chronograph counter at 9 o’clock. I think it will be more popular if the watch has a full green main dial with three silver subdials. Like other Daytona replica watches, this 116520LV also has luminous material being applied on hour markers, hour and minute hands.
Replica Rolex 116520LV Clasp
The bracelet is made of 316L stainless steel, it consists of three sections of links, the middle links are polished, which are contrasting with the brushed links at both sides. With a small screw driver, you can remove or install the links by yourself, it is very simple, just like you do it on a genuine watch. By the way, the replica watch is equipped with an Asia clone 4130 movement, which is based on a Chinese working chronograph movement.
