Breitling watches, renowned for their precision and aviation heritage, often feature a complex array of dials, scales, and hands. Understanding these elements is key to appreciating the functionality and rich history embedded within these timepieces. This article will delve into the meaning and usage of the various dials found on Breitling watches, focusing particularly on the iconic Navitimer and its variations, but also touching upon features common across the brand's diverse collection. We'll cover the tachymeter, the slide rule bezel, and other key components, helping you decipher the information presented on your Breitling wristwatch.
The Tachymeter Scale: Measuring Speed and Distance
One of the most prominent features on many Breitling chronographs, including the Navitimer and Chronomat, is the tachymeter scale. This scale, typically found on the rehaut (the inner bezel), is a circular scale with markings ranging from 500 to 60, sometimes even extending further. It's not a dial in the strictest sense, as it doesn't move independently, but it's a crucial element for measuring speed.
The tachymeter works in conjunction with the chronograph's second hand. To use it, start the chronograph when an event begins (e.g., passing a marker on a track). Stop the chronograph after exactly one minute. The point on the tachymeter scale where the second hand stops indicates the speed in units per hour. For example, if the second hand stops at the "100" mark, the speed is 100 units per hour (e.g., 100 kilometers per hour, 100 miles per hour, etc., depending on the units used for measuring distance).
It's crucial to understand that the tachymeter is calibrated for a specific measurement duration – one minute. If you time an event for a different duration, the result will be incorrect. Furthermore, the accuracy of the tachymeter reading depends on the accuracy of the chronograph movement.
The Slide Rule Bezel: A Pilot's Essential Tool
The Breitling Navitimer is particularly famous for its bidirectional rotating slide rule bezel. Unlike the fixed tachymeter scale, this bezel is actively involved in calculations. This ingenious feature, inspired by aviation needs, allows for quick computations without the need for a separate calculator. The bezel comprises several scales, each with a specific purpose:
* Inner Scale (often marked with numbers): This scale is generally used in conjunction with the other scales for various calculations. It provides reference points for the other scales' functions.
* Outer Scale (often marked with units): This scale is typically used to determine units of measurement. It is context-dependent, meaning the units (e.g., kilometers, miles, nautical miles) will depend on the specific calculation being performed.
* Conversion Scales: These scales facilitate conversions between different units of measurement. For example, converting kilometers to miles or gallons to liters. The exact scales and their functions will vary depending on the specific Navitimer model.
The slide rule bezel is used by aligning the desired values on different scales. By rotating the bezel, the user can perform a variety of calculations, including:
* Speed and Distance: Calculating speed based on distance and time, or vice versa.
* Fuel Consumption: Determining fuel consumption based on distance and fuel usage.
* Currency Conversion: Converting between different currencies (though the accuracy depends on the exchange rate used).
* Proportions and Ratios: Solving problems involving proportions and ratios.
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