Breitling was an early pioneer in the development of precision-made cockpit instruments for pilots. In the 1930s, its dashboard timers paved the way for its later Chronomat and Navitimer series of wrist-worn timepieces, many of which still feature prominently in the Breitling catalog today.
The Ref. 765 AVI, released in the 1950s, was a seminal reference that further established the Swiss brand's aeronautical bona fides. This modern version, the Classic AVI Chronograph 42 P-51 Mustang, continues the AVI story via design inspiration from the American-built P-51 Mustang fighter, a classic of Second World War aviation.
Housed in a 42mm 18K rose gold case with dual pump pushers, a signed crown, a sapphire crystal, and a rotating 12-hour bezel, it features a handsome, highly legible matte-grey dial with an outer luminous minute track, large Arabic indices, a triple-register chronograph layout with sunken, black totalizers, and a luminous sword handset with a red-tipped central seconds hand.
Within the watch, the Breitling Calibre 23 automatic movement with 48 hours of power reserve provides exceptional timekeeping, while a matching rose gold deployant clasp keeps the look cohesive and classy. With its knurled bezel and crisp pusher action, the Classic AVI Chronograph 42 P-51 Mustang is every bit the faithful tool watch, too.
The only thing that doesn't come with this piece? A pilot's license. You'll have to take care of that one on your own!