In the early 1980s, Breitling's Ernest Schneider was approached by the Italian Frecce Tricolori Jet team for a new chronograph. The chronograph was to be elegant, sturdy, and mechanical, as the elite aerobatics team wanted an analog display. Schneider, a pilot himself, understood the importance of legibility and comfort on the wrist. He discovered that some pilots sometimes returned with broken watch crystals, leading to the creation of the Chronomat, an iconic signature mark.
The Chronomat was presented to the Italian Jet Team in 1983, and pilots immediately saw its appeal. The black dial bears the patrol's emblem, three arrows in the colors of the country's flag above the inscription "P.A.N frecce tricolori."
As the 100th anniversary of Breitling approached, Schneider wanted to launch a new watch that would revolutionize the industry and put the mechanical chronograph back at center stage. The Chronomat retained the design elements that made its precursor a faithful companion of Italian Jet Pilots one year before, including the signature rider tabs, smooth and streamlined case, and iconic "Rouleaux" bracelet.
The Chronomat event also featured a yachting version and a version specifically designed for the Renault F1 Team. A two-tone version with gold rider tabs, crown, and pushers added a luxurious flair. The Chronomat was worn by various individuals, from sportsmen to businessmen, actors, and jetsetters, making it a symbol of style.
