1984 marked a significant year for Breitling, a year that saw the launch of a watch that would redefine the brand's image and solidify its place in horological history: the Breitling Chronomat. Specifically, the reference 81950, produced between 1984 and 1996, represents a pivotal moment, a design language that would influence generations of Breitling timepieces. This article delves into the specifics of the Breitling Chronomat 81950, exploring its retail and market price, model specifications, historical trends, and its enduring appeal in the context of the broader search terms like "Breitling 1884 watch for sale," "Breitling watch 1884 price," and "Breitling watches 1884 chronometre certifie price." Note that while the title mentions "1984," the significant model discussed, the Chronomat 81950, had a longer production run extending beyond that year. The year 1884 refers to Breitling's founding year, not a specific model year.
The Chronomat 81950: A Design Revolution
Before the Chronomat 81950, Breitling, though respected, lacked a truly iconic, instantly recognizable design. The 81950 changed all that. Its distinctive features – the prominent rider tabs on the bezel, the robust case, and the clear, legible dial – created a watch that was both functional and stylish. This design, conceived by the legendary watch designer, Willy Breitling, aimed to create a tool watch with an undeniable presence. The watch was specifically designed with pilots in mind, carrying over many of the features that defined Breitling's earlier aviation-focused pieces but with a significantly updated aesthetic.
The 81950’s case, typically in stainless steel, offered excellent water resistance for its time. The bezel, with its distinctive rider tabs, allowed for easy manipulation even with gloves on, a crucial feature for pilots. The dial, usually black or silver, featured clear Arabic numerals and highly legible hands, ensuring readability under various lighting conditions. The movement, a high-quality automatic chronograph caliber, often a Venus 178 or a Breitling Caliber 12, provided accurate timekeeping and chronograph functions. The "Chronomat" moniker itself reflects this emphasis on precise time measurement.
Retail and Market Price: A Shifting Landscape
Determining the original retail price of a Breitling Chronomat 81950 is challenging due to the passage of time and currency fluctuations. However, considering similar watches from the era and adjusting for inflation, the original retail price likely fell within a range of several thousand dollars (in today's value).
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