Breitling SuperOcean

Nautical Chronographs inhabit a strange space on the vintage timepiece spectrum. Most divers rely on a rotating bezel to calculate how much time is remaining for their dive. Topside timepieces, like Heuer's Skipper models and various yacht timers often utilize small, hard-to-read chrono subdials which are sub-optimal in choppy conditions.  Thus, the notion of developing a chronograph--most usually employed in the fields of aviation or racing--with a highly legible central minute hand was genius. 

And yet Breitling did. In 1965 Breitling released the Superocean Reference 2005. It replaced the earlier Superocean references released in the 1950s--the Reference 1004 (which did not feature a chronograph) and the chronograph Reference 807. The Reference 2005--also called the "Slow Moving Chronograph"--is one of the most desirable vintage Breitlings ever produced, an unbelievably rare find on the market. In fact, it's so rare that this is only the third we've been able to offer in our four years of operation. 

What makes this such a special piece is the functionality and layout of the chronograph feature: a minutes-only counter with a large, luminous central sweep hand.  Because it only counts minutes, it is difficult to know whether or not it is running with just a glance. 

To solve this problem, the dial features a circular aperture just about the 6:00 position.  When the chronograph isn't activated, this circle appears black and blends in with the rest of the dial. When engaged, the window turns white (now a more patinated, creamy white) to indicate to the wearer that the function is operating. And when stopped, a smaller dot appears, which reverts to black when reset. 

This incredibly unusual and highly sought-after timepiece is powered by a modified high-grade Venus 188 Manual Winding chronograph movement. Aside from its technical innovations, it possesses killer looks in a highly desirable color-way--white on black, and housed in a case that at 40mm was large in its day but well sized for the modern wrist.

Built to be a bullet-proof tool watch, the SuperOcean is sort of like Breitling's sensible middle ground; aesthetically simple and sleek, mechanically highly functional - the kind of vintage timepiece just about every collector can appreciate.  

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.