Among the many exceptional squads that are associated with Breitling, the Frecce Tricolori – the Italian airforce aerobatics team – holds a place of its own. In 1983, the brand with the winged B was chosen by the “tricolor arrows” to design their official watch. In doing so, Breitling worked closely with pilots in order to create an authentic aviation chronograph. A year later, in 1984, it was based on this ultra-functional, original and elegant watch, that the brand launched its famous Chronomat – that has since become its star model and was recently reinterpreted.

Almost 30 years later, Breitling is perpetuating these ties by creating for the Frecce Tricolori a special version of the Chronomat 44 customized in the team colors. For devotees of high-flying feats and aviation in general, the firm is also offering a 1,000-piece limited edition with the same exclusive design. Its black dial (like the original 1983 model) bearing silver-toned counters with red hands is distinguished by the team logo emblazoned at 12 o’clock. Composed of three arrows in the red, white and green colors of the Italian flag, it is topped with the inscription “P.A.N frecce tricolori” (P.A.N. standing for Pattuglia Acrobatica Nazionale). The caseback bears the engraved silhouette of the ten Aermacchi aircraft composing the squad. The ultrasturdy steel case and the bezel with black rubber-incrusted numerals feature satinbrushed tops and polished sides. Water-resistant to the exceptional depth of 500 meters (1,650 ft), the watch houses Manufacture Breitling Caliber 01, a highperformance chronograph movement entirely developed and produced by Breitling Replica Super Ocean, and chronometer-certified by the COSC. It is available with a choice of wristbands notably including a new black rubber strap with embossed Breitling signature. The Frecce Tricolori Chronomat 44 and the limited edition were presented during a special event organized at the patrol’s Rivolto airbase in north-east Italy. It was attended by team pilots, a number of Breitling guests, along with members of the military, leading personalities and key representatives of the national press.

Movement: Manufacture Breitling Caliber 01, officially chronometer-certified by the COSC, selfwinding, high-frequency (28,800 vibrations per hour), 47 jewels. Over 70-hour power reserve. 1/4th second chronograph, 30-minute and 12-hour totalizers. Calendar. Case: steel. Water-resistant to 500 meters/50 bars (1,650 ft). Screw-locked crown and pushpieces. Unidirectional ratcheted rotating bezel. Cambered sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides. Diameter: 44 mm. Dial: Onyx black. Strap/bracelet: rubber Diver Pro III (with Replica Breitling Bentley signature) / Pilot.