Breitling, a name synonymous with precision, luxury, and timeless elegance, has been a leading figure in the world of horology for over a century. The brand's legacy is rich, filled with innovation and a commitment to excellence. Here, we delve into ten pivotal points that have shaped the legacy of Breitling watches:

1. The Inception in 1884: Léon Breitling founded Breitling in the Jura mountains of Switzerland. His vision was clear: to create chronographs and timers for industrial, scientific, and athletic purposes. This focus on functionality would become a hallmark of the brand.

2. Pioneers in Aviation: Breitling's association with aviation began in the early 20th century. The brand developed onboard chronographs for aircraft cockpits, which were used by various armed forces. This cemented Breitling's reputation as the "official supplier to world aviation."

3. The Birth of the Navitimer: In 1952, Breitling introduced the Navitimer, a watch equipped with a circular slide rule. It allowed pilots to perform crucial calculations, such as fuel consumption and climbing speed, making it an indispensable tool for aviators.

4. Innovation in the Deep: Not just the skies, Breitling also conquered the depths. The SuperOcean, launched in 1957, was designed for professional divers. Its impressive water resistance and luminescent hands and markers set new standards for diving watches.

5. Chronomat - A Game Changer: Introduced in 1984, the Chronomat celebrated Breitling's 100th anniversary. With its distinctive rider tabs on the bezel and its robust design, it became an icon and is still one of the brand's best-selling models.

6. Breitling Emergency: A testament to Breitling's commitment to innovation, the Emergency, launched in 1995, was the world's first wristwatch equipped with a built-in emergency microtransmitter. It could broadcast on the international distress frequency, potentially saving lives in critical situations.

7. Environmental Initiatives: Breitling has always been conscious of its environmental footprint. The brand has partnered with organizations like Ocean Conservancy to promote clean seas and has introduced eco-friendly packaging for its watches.

8. Celebrity Endorsements: Over the years, Breitling has been the choice of many celebrities and influential figures, from Hollywood stars like Brad Pitt and Charlize Theron to astronauts and pilots. These endorsements have further elevated the brand's global status.

9. In-house Movements: Breitling took a significant step in 2009 by introducing its in-house mechanical chronograph movement, the Caliber 01. This movement, entirely developed and produced in Breitling's workshops, showcased the brand's technical prowess.

10. A Legacy of Precision: Breitling is one of the few watch brands to have its movements chronometer-certified, the ultimate recognition of precision. This commitment to accuracy and reliability has been unwavering since its inception, making Breitling watches a symbol of trust and excellence. It's best to check with Wilson Watches for your pre-owned Breitling.

In conclusion, Breitling's legacy is not just about luxury watches but about a brand's relentless pursuit of excellence, innovation, and precision. Whether in the skies, on land, or beneath the seas, Breitling has consistently set standards, making it a true legend in the world of horology.