When Breitling launched the Top Time in the early 1960s, it was meant to be a simpler, more affordable alternative to the brand's higher-end pilot's watch offerings. Aimed at consumers 25 and other, it featured clean lines, an oversized 38mm case in steel or gold, and dials in a kaleidoscopic range of colors, including funky “radio” patterns ideal for the fashion-forward young man (or woman).
The modern Top Time is no different. With its uncluttered dial designs and workhorse movement, it's an ideal entry into the Breitling catalog, which features such famous models as the Chronomat and the Navitimer. For those looking for a simpler chronograph devoid of the Navitimer's multiple timing scales, the Top Time is just the ticket.
This particular Top Time, a Reference AB017623 celebrates the famous Shelby Cobra. Housed in a 41mm stainless steel case with a sapphire crystal, dual pump pushers, and a signed crown, it features a handsome blue sunray dial with the Cobra logo situated at six; an outer multi-color tachymeter scale; a dual-register chronograph with white "squircle" registers; and luminous 'dash' indices. With its bright red accents against a blue and white background, it's a beautiful study in chronograph design, and a cool tribute to one of America's most famous muscle cars.
Powered by Breitling's B01 automatic chronograph movement and fitted to a brown calfskin leather rallye-style strap with a steel folding buckle, the Breitling Top Time Shelby Cobra is the ideal driving watch — though it should do just fine outside a powerful vehicle, as well!