The Breitling Vintage Chronograph Ref. 1191 stands as a testament to the brand's enduring legacy in the world of horology. This iconic timepiece, a coveted piece amongst collectors and enthusiasts alike, represents a golden era of Breitling design and functionality. Its enduring appeal stems from a perfect blend of classic aesthetics, robust construction, and the undeniable charm of a well-worn, historically significant watch. This article delves deep into the Ref. 1191, exploring its history, design features, variations, and its place within the broader context of vintage Breitling chronograph models currently available on the market, including those offered as certified pre-owned Breitling watches.
A Glimpse into History:
Pinpointing the exact production years of the Breitling Ref. 1191 is a task requiring meticulous research, as Breitling's record-keeping from that era isn't always comprehensively documented. However, based on various examples observed and sold within the vintage Breitling chronograph for sale market, the Ref. 1191 is generally believed to have been produced sometime between the late 1950s and the early 1970s. This period saw Breitling at the peak of its influence, producing robust and reliable chronographs favoured by pilots, adventurers, and professionals demanding precision timekeeping. The Ref. 1191 embodies this spirit perfectly.
Design and Features:
The Breitling Ref. 1191 is immediately recognizable for its distinctive design cues. Its case, typically stainless steel (though some variations might exist), is generally a generous size for its era, lending itself to a substantial and masculine feel on the wrist. The case shape is often described as cushion-shaped or tonneau-shaped, depending on the specific iteration. This unique shape, combined with the prominent pushers and crown, contributes significantly to the watch's overall character.
The dial is arguably the most captivating feature of the Ref. 1191. Depending on the specific example, you’ll find a variety of dial configurations, colours, and finishes. Commonly seen are black, silver, or champagne dials, often featuring contrasting sub-dials for the chronograph functions. These sub-dials, typically positioned at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock, display the running seconds, 30-minute counter, and 12-hour counter respectively. The applied hour markers, often baton-shaped or Arabic numerals, are usually luminous, enhancing readability in low-light conditions. The Breitling logo, frequently accompanied by the words "Breitling" and "Chronograph," is prominently displayed at the 12 o’clock position.
The movement powering the Ref. 1191 is typically a manually wound chronograph calibre. Specific movements varied throughout the production run, but many shared a common heritage with other contemporary Breitling movements. These movements, known for their robust construction and reliability, are highly sought after by collectors for their mechanical integrity and the pleasure of manually winding the watch. The ability to appreciate the tactile connection to the watch's mechanism is a significant part of the appeal of vintage timepieces like the Ref. 1191.
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