BreitlingOrbiter 3 Emergency

KEY FACTS

• 703/1999 of the Titanium Breitling Emergency Orbiter 3
• Offered by an established trade seller based in Brussels, Belgium
• Presented with its box, warranty papers, original stamped Breitling book, emergency swing tag, service records, and bezel protector
• Also included in the lot are the frequency tester, screwdriver, and a commemorative poster for the famous balloon journey
• Graded ‘A’ for condition by the vendor who reports the watch to be in good working order

FUNCTIONS

• Time, chronograph, GMT, and a frequency distress beacon
• Features an analogue-digital dial
• Powered by a Breitling quartz chronometer-certified movement

SUMMARY

The Emergency range from Breitling is known as a robust tool watch built for pilots, navigators and explorers. The Orbiter 3 was released back in 2000 and commemorates the first nonstop round-the-world flight in a balloon. 1999 were made in titanium, with just 20 yellow gold and 20 white gold example produced, the one presented here is number 703 of the titanium ones. 

On the dial, the distinctive analogue-digital orientation is seen on a black dial with an Orbiter 3 logo at the 9 o’clock position. The bi-directional bezel is marked with compass bearings and can be used in conjunction with the analogue hands to assist the wearer with navigation. Inside the case is a Breitling quartz chronometer-certified movement that offers the wearer a range of functions relevant to outdoor activities and is accurate to 15 seconds per year. 

Not only is this a rare example, but its importance within the aviation world makes this watch a truly collectable watch. At the time of the flight, the Orbiter 3 also set the record for the longest distance un-refueled flight (25,360 mi or 40,813 km) of any aircraft in aviation history.

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Any watch not covered by a current sales or service warranty should be considered as potentially requiring a service, even if in full working order on the date of purchase.

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