Breitling Top Time B01 Tribute to Aston Martin DB5

Breitling has introduced a series of limited edition Top Time B01 chronographs dedicated to the legendary Aston Martin DB5.

This collection of three models, inspired by automotive themes, stands out with its cushion-shaped case featuring fine Art Deco engravings at the corners. Combined with pump pusher buttons, the design embodies the character of the 1960s, fully aligning with the spirit of the renowned British grand tourer Aston Martin.

Collection Variants and Design Features

The collection includes three variations: a fully stainless steel case, a steel case with a platinum bezel, and a top-tier version in 18-karat red gold. The steel model features a silver dial with contrasting black square subdials (a square with rounded corners), the second version combines a black dial with a high-polished platinum bezel. The top model in red gold stands out with a black onyx dial with gold details. All three models feature a reference to the classic DB5's steering wheel on the wooden inner ring of the dial.

Breitling and Aston Martin Partnership

Since the beginning of 2024, when Breitling took charge of the partnership with Aston Martin, only one joint model has been released - the titanium Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 Aston Martin Formula One Team. Limited to 1959 pieces, it sold out quickly and currently trades at a premium on the secondary market. Despite doubts about the reality of such a limitation, demand confirmed its success. Given this, the introduction of a new model dedicated not to Formula 1 but to the iconic Aston Martin road cars, particularly the DB5, seems like a logical step.

It's worth noting that Aston Martin is facing challenges in the Formula 1 2026 season: the AMR26 car, driven by Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, spends most of the season at the back of the pack. The team earned its only point at the controversial Monaco Grand Prix, where a series of penalties for speeding in the pit lane were later questioned due to calibration issues with the control system. In such conditions, focusing on Aston Martin's rich heritage of road cars seems safer and more promising.

History of Collaboration and Connection with Motorsport

Breitling is no novice in motorsport: the brand had a long partnership with Bentley, including participation in Bentley Speed 8's victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2003. With Aston Martin, the collaboration is broader - covering both road cars and the Formula 1 team. Returning to the DB5 of 1963 is an obvious starting point. The silver DB5 made of birch wood became famous for its roles in the James Bond films "Goldfinger" (1964) and "Thunderball" (1965). The latter film is especially important for Breitling, whose watches also received notable screen time.

Breitling Top Time B01 Chronograph 41 Tribute to Aston Martin DB5

In the film "Thunderball," James Bond wears a modified Breitling Top Time watch equipped with a Geiger counter by Q Branch. These were the first gadget watches in the franchise, not just an accessory. In the same film, SPECTRE agent Angelo Palazzi wears a Breitling Navitimer ref. 806, assuming the identity of a murdered pilot. Although Breitling does not officially link the new models to Bond films, it is hard not to recall "Thunderball," given the DB5's and Top Time's shared screen fame.

The new watches feature a 41 mm cushion-shaped case with a thickness of 13.8 mm. Due to the increased size and broader metal surfaces, they appear larger than last year's limited models with a 38 mm diameter. Pump pusher buttons add visual weight. Nevertheless, the watches remain comfortable to wear, although they have lost the compact charm of the original 36 mm Top Time ref. 2002 models from the 1960s.

Dial Design and Functionality

The dial is distinguished by its clarity and simplicity. Two chronograph counters are symmetrically placed at the 6 and 9 o'clock positions, and the absence of a date window maintains balance. The square-shaped subdials mirror the case shape. The steel models are understated, with a silver or black sunburst dial and concentric black counters. The version with a platinum bezel adds shine without becoming ostentatious. The absence of bright accents maintains the elegance characteristic of the DB5. The hour and minute hands, along with the indices, are baton-shaped with Super-LumiNova inserts for visibility in the dark.

Critique of the Wooden Chapter Ring and the Gold Version

The tachymetric chapter ring with a wooden insert evokes mixed feelings. The wooden element seems unnecessary - the inscription "Aston Martin DB5" already emphasizes the connection to the car. Adding a wood effect distracts from the successful dial design. A contrasting chapter ring without extra details, like in last year's limited Martini Racing series, would be preferable.

The gold model handles this task better. The warm tones of the wood harmonize with the gold bezel and details. Gold applied indices, hands, and subdial frames complement the black onyx dial - the first instance of Breitling using this natural stone. A limited edition of 250 pieces underscores the watch's status as a luxurious collectible. In contrast, the steel models better reflect the grand touring spirit that the DB5 embodied at its debut in the 1960s.

Movement and Technical Specifications

All three models are equipped with the automatic Breitling B01 caliber certified by COSC. The movement operates at a frequency of 4 Hz and has a power reserve of 70 hours. Through the sapphire case back, the rotor engraved with the Aston Martin logo is visible. The steel model's rotor is rhodium-plated, while the platinum and gold versions have an 18-karat red gold rotor.

The release is limited to 1022 pieces for the steel model, 315 for the version with a platinum bezel, and 250 for the gold model. Interestingly, only the gold version has individual numbering on the case back (e.g., "001/250"). The others are marked standardly: "One of 315" or "One of 1022".

Final Specifications, Impressions, and Prices

Each model is delivered on a calfskin strap with gradient coloring and a beige lining reminiscent of classic car upholstery. The steel versions feature steel deployant clasps, and the gold version has a gold buckle. Water resistance is 100 meters, despite the lack of a screw-down crown. However, these watches are more suited for driving than diving.

Of the three models, I prefer the steel one with a silver dial. To enhance the automotive theme, I would replace the strap with a black perforated racing strap. The main wish remains a version without the wooden chapter ring and more compact dimensions, similar to last year's 38 mm models.

Prices start at €10,500 / US$11,400 / £8,650 for the steel model with a silver dial, €16,500 / US$18,600 / £14,400 for the version with a platinum bezel, and reach €40,500 / US$41,500 / £35,100 for the gold limited edition with a black onyx dial. Which one would you choose? Share in the comments and visit the Breitling website for details.

Watch Technical Specifications