Breitling has been positioning itself as the go-to watchmaker for aviation and automotive enthusiasts alike, with releases like the Super AVI chronograph collection and Top Time Classic Cars Capsule Collection, respectively. Not restricted to four wheels, Breitling has delved into the world of two-wheelers before, previously teaming up with British brand Norton Motorcycles on a series of Premier Chronographs and Australian custom motorcycle shop Deus Ex Machina on a Top Time release.
Now, the Swiss watch manufacturer has teamed up with British motorcycle brand Triumph on both a Top Time Triumph watch as well as a limited-edition release of 270 co-branded motorcycles, with the release also marking the latter’s 120th anniversary. Inspired by 1960s cafe racer subculture. Inspired by 1960s cafe racer subculture, both the timepiece and motorcycle draw from the retro-chic stylings both brands have embraced.
“Triumph’s heritage and modern-retro aesthetic are just two of the many things we have in common,” said Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling. “Their blending of tradition with technology is completely in sync with what we do.”
For their inaugural collaboration, the Breitling Top Time Triumph watch takes on an ice-blue dial with a brushed finish that features a bow-tie motif (nicknamed ‘the Zorro dial’ by Top Time collectors). The ice-blue hue references both a blue Triumph Thunderbird 6T from 1951 and a rare blue-dial Breitling Top Time Ref. 815 from the 1970s.
Coinciding with the Top Time Triumph launch, Triumph is releasing 270 co-branded motorcycles – titled the Speed Twin Breitling Limited Edition – whose owners will have the opportunity to purchase a special version of the Top Time Triumph watch, this iteration featuring a sunray dial and an engraved caseback with the individual number of the bike. Like the standard Top Time Triumph, the owner’s edition also takes form in ice-blue.
Both watches have a 41mm case size and are fitted on an understated racing-themed leather strap that lets the dial do the talking. Breitling and Triumph logos sit subtly at 12 and 6 oçlock; oversized mushroom pushers allow for easy control of the chronograph’s stop-start and reset functions; and a high contrast tachymeter scale provides clear legibility of speed readings. Flip the watch over and you’ll find the caseback etched with a detailed sketch of Triumph’s parallel-twin engine.
“This collaboration is born out of a shared philosophy of bold and original design,” said Nick Bloor, CEO of Triumph, of the partnership. “The Top Time Triumph brings that uncompromising style and craftsmanship together.”
Words by John Deckard
