Breitling Superocean Heritage B01 Chronograph 42 Review

One of my favorite chronographs of all time is the Breitling Top Time ref. 810.

This is a magnificent classic from the legendary series of reverse-panda chronographs that Breitling produced in the 1950s-1960s. I could easily compile a list of 5-10 of my favorite Breitling models from that period, so when the brand announces a new chronograph based on a historical model, I pay close attention. In the case of the latest Superocean Heritage B01 Chronograph 42, Breitling pays tribute to the SuperOcean ref. 807 from 1957. This classic diver's chronograph is a favorite among collectors, so it's worth examining its features in detail.

History and Connection with Breitling Top Time ref. 810

Let me briefly return to the Top Time ref. 810. I wrote a passionate letter to Breitling urging them to revive this classic model right after the relaunch of the current Top Time collection. Over four years, the brand has expanded the collection with new models, primarily linked to motorsports, American muscle cars, and classic motorcycles. As a result, modern versions of some of the best vintage references have not appeared in the Top Time lineup. This is why the new Superocean Heritage B01 Chronograph 42 is of even greater interest.

Inspiration from Breitling SuperOcean ref. 807 1957

The SuperOcean series was inspired by Jacques-Yves Cousteau's underwater documentaries and the growing popularity of amateur diving. In 1957, the classic diver SuperOcean ref. 1004 was released. In 2020, Breitling brought this model back into the collection under the name Superocean Heritage '57, and it has remained in the brand's lineup ever since. However, Breitling didn't stop there: in the same year, the diver's chronograph SuperOcean ref. 807 was introduced, making the story particularly interesting.

These watches first introduced the famous reverse-panda dial configuration and became the world's first diver's chronograph. Although both features are considered classics today, they were revolutionary innovations in the late 1950s, especially a chronograph for diving. It is known that additional buttons create potential points for water ingress into the case.

To solve this problem, Willy Breitling turned to the renowned watchmaking firm Huguenin Frères. The company developed double-sealed buttons, allowing the creation of the world's first diver's chronograph. These watches combined high functionality with an attractive design that stood out both on land and underwater.

Features of Breitling Superocean Heritage B01 Chronograph 42

The new Superocean Heritage B01 Chronograph 42 model draws inspiration from the classic SuperOcean ref. 807. In the updated Superocean Heritage lineup presented last year, the reverse-panda dial design appeared for the first time. Previously, Breitling released steel versions with fully blue or green dials, as well as options with a black dial in steel and rose gold. In my opinion, the new model is the best of all four, and possibly one of the best modern diver's chronographs.

Let's take a closer look at the technical specifications. The stainless steel case has a diameter of 42 mm, a thickness of 14.55 mm, a lug-to-lug distance of 49.56 mm, and water resistance up to 200 meters. The screw-down crown and classic-style "pump" buttons emphasize the signature Superocean look. The stainless steel bezel is equipped with a black ceramic insert with increments every five minutes.

The black dial is adorned with luminescent indexes and two silver sub-dials. At the "12 o'clock" position is the brand's signature marker, and at the "6 o'clock" position is a date window. The hour hand is designed as a large arrow, the minute hand in a sword style, and the second hand with a characteristic "lollipop". Completing the look is a stylish mesh bracelet that perfectly matches the design. Breitling also offers the model on a textured black rubber strap, which looks no less impressive.

Breitling's In-House B01 Movement

The watch's back is fitted with the B01 caliber - an automatic chronograph with manual winding and a stop-seconds function. The movement consists of 312 components, operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), and has a power reserve of up to 70 hours. It is COSC-certified and features a column wheel and vertical clutch. This in-house movement is now installed in most Breitling chronographs and has earned recognition in the watch community.

For this diver's chronograph, the B01 is the perfect choice. As Mike noted in the introductory article on the relaunch of the Superocean Heritage collection, a two-register design with a continuous seconds hand and a 30-minute counter was chosen for the Superocean Heritage Chronograph model. Typically, the B01 is equipped with three additional dials, but here the 12-hour counter has been removed, giving the dial a cleaner look without compromising underwater functionality.

Final Impressions of the Breitling Superocean Heritage B01 Chronograph 42

As noted, this is the most stylish of the modern Superocean Heritage chronographs. It has a distinct retro charm compared to the other three models. Additionally, the watch has an interesting history that enhances its historical significance. The new addition to the Breitling Superocean Heritage collection is priced at €9,100 with a black rubber strap and €9,400 with a stainless steel mesh bracelet. For this price, you get one of the most attractive modern diver's chronographs.

Technical Specifications of the Watch

This review reveals the key features and historical significance of the Breitling Superocean Heritage B01 Chronograph 42, making it a sought-after piece among collectors and enthusiasts of quality diver's chronographs.