Both known to rely on strength and instincts, parallels are often drawn between the competitive worlds of sports and haute horlogerie. The two enticing fields are often held at a high bar and share the same vision of success few can achieve, making it the perfect arena for formidable partnerships. For luxury watchmaker Breitling, this year marks its debut as the official timepiece partner of the National Football League (NFL). With the level of global prestige both have attained, the strategic multi-year partnership begins with the unveiling of two celebratory collections, the Chronomat Automatic GMT and the Endurance Pro.
As the luxury watchmaker sets foot on the field, its game plan is to carry the heart of the NFL teams through its compelling creations. The first line to be introduced, the Chronomat Automatic GMT 40 NFL Team Editions, is sure to be recognised by fans of the sport with its bold and symbolic dial. Dressed in the winning colours of one’s favourite team, the 40 mm watch features a dual-timezone display that frequent flyers will find essential. The commemorative novelty proudly wears each team’s primary colour on the dial, and secondary colour on the GMT hand, making it a collectible that avid fans will undoubtedly enjoy. As for the dial itself, aside from the date window at the bottom, it is otherwise kept minimalist featuring a 24-hour scale on its border.
Powered by the Breitling Calibre 32, each variation is crafted in the image of each NFL team, including the San Francisco 49ers to the Philadelphia Eagles. With a power reserve of 42 hours, the watch is just as robust as it is durable, what with the water resistance of up to 200 metres. Each of the Chronomat Automatic GMT 40 NFL Team Editions is made of stainless steel and equipped with a sleek rouleaux bracelet to match. The robust cambered sapphire crystal is framed by the Chronomat’s iconic feature, a unidirectional bezel with revolutionary rider tabs that were designed to protect the crystal from damage. On the back, the plate that protects the movement also bears the NFL team logo to fully capture the spirit of each team.
Whilst the first collection to commemorate the partnership between Breitling and the NFL would be suitable for day-to-day use, the second is the perfect companion for those who love sports. Measuring a striking 44 mm in all-titanium, the Endurance Pro NFL Team Editions line is home to the Breitling Calibre 82. Equipped with 1/10th second and 30-minute counters, wearers can rest assure regarding the watch’s longevity, seeing as it has a battery life of up to three or even four years. As for its water resistance, the Endurance Pro NFL Team Editions can withstand up to 10 bars of water exposure.
The Endurance Pro NFL Team Editions is kept largely monochromatic, as seen by the titanium case, black rubber strap, and anthracite dial combination. Regardless, the primary colour of the chosen NFL team is seen on the inner bezel with pulsometer scale, whilst its logo is proudly shown at the bottom counter of the dial. Ideal for outdoor sports and adventures, the timepiece also features a compass function located on its bidirectional bezel.
Fans of Breitling and the NFL would be pleasantly surprised to hear of the exciting events the two have to offer. Going beyond these commemorative timepieces, Breitling is set to liven up NFL events such as the muchanticipated Super Bowl LX and the NFL Honours. In turn, the NFL will also take part in global events that will take place at Breitling’s own boutiques.
