The year 1969 marked a pivotal moment in horological history. It witnessed the simultaneous launch of several automatic chronograph movements, a technological feat that had eluded watchmakers for decades. Among these groundbreaking achievements was the Breitling Chrono-Matic, specifically the reference 2110, featuring the legendary caliber 11 movement. This article will delve deep into the intricacies of the Breitling 2110 movement, exploring its origins, design, significance, and its enduring legacy within the world of vintage chronographs.
1969 Breitling Chrono-Matic (Ref. 2110): A Design Icon
The Breitling Chrono-Matic reference 2110 isn't just a watch; it's a testament to innovative engineering and sophisticated design. Housed in a 38.2mm case – a size considered relatively modern even by today's standards – the 2110 exudes a timeless elegance. Its bi-color bezel, typically a combination of stainless steel and gold, adds a touch of luxury and visual interest, perfectly complementing the crisp, legible dial. The dial itself, usually featuring three sub-dials for chronograph functions (seconds, minutes, and hours), displays a clear and functional layout, a hallmark of Breitling's commitment to practicality. The combination of the relatively compact case size and the sophisticated features makes the 2110 a highly sought-after piece among collectors.
The appeal of the 2110 extends beyond its aesthetics. Its automatic movement, a rarity in chronographs at the time, offered a level of convenience previously unavailable. No longer did one need to manually wind the chronograph mechanism; the automatic winding system, powered by the wearer's wrist movements, ensured that the watch was always ready for action. This feature, coupled with its robust construction and reliable performance, solidified the 2110's position as a true pioneer in the world of automatic chronographs.
The Heart of the Matter: The Caliber 11 Movement
The true star of the Breitling 2110 is its movement, the legendary caliber 11. This wasn't a movement solely conceived and manufactured by Breitling. Instead, it represents a collaborative effort, a testament to the spirit of innovation that characterized the late 1960s watchmaking landscape. The caliber 11 is based on the Buren caliber 1282, a groundbreaking automatic chronograph movement featuring a unique micro-rotor.
The use of a micro-rotor, significantly smaller than the traditional oscillating weight found in most automatic movements, was a crucial element in the caliber 11's design. This allowed for a slimmer profile, crucial for integrating the complex chronograph mechanism into a reasonably sized watch case. The micro-rotor's efficient winding mechanism ensured reliable power reserve, further enhancing the practicality of the automatic chronograph.
However, the Buren 1282 wasn't simply adopted wholesale. Breitling, along with other brands participating in the collaborative effort (including Hamilton, Heuer, and Dubois-Dépraz), significantly modified and refined the base movement. This collaborative approach led to a family of similar yet distinct movements, each reflecting the individual brand's design philosophy and manufacturing expertise. The caliber 11, as implemented in the Breitling 2110, showcases the brand's commitment to precision and robust performance.
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