Breitling 'AOPA' Top Time

When it comes to watches, sometimes simpler is better.

Take the Breitling Top Time, for instance. Produced from 1964 to the 1970s, the Top Time was Breitling’s entry level chronograph line. Less complex and purpose-driven than the Navitimer or Chronomat, the Top Time was sporty without straying too far into “tool watch” territory, and had a price tag to match its stripped-down nature.

However, aesthetically the Top Time is as thoughtfully-executed as anything one would expect from such a behemoth of chronograph design.

Under Willy Breitling’s expert eye, the Top Time was marketed toward the younger consumer—men (and women) 25 and younger.

In his words: “We are sweeping into the field of youth and we are going to speak their language. Our special models [like the Top Time] are particularly suited to the needs of young and active professionals…”

The Top Time’s “bold new lines” and “rare and distinctive air” certainly attracted its intended consumer base (and wasn't hurt by an appearance on Sean Connery’s wrist in 1965’s Thunderball). Though Breitling used its highest-quality movements and materials for its flagship lines, the Top Time was no slouch either. The cases Breitling used for the Top Time were large for the day, at 38mm, and came in a variety of materials, from gold to stainless steel.

And the dials came in a kaleidoscopic range of colors, including funky “radio” patterns in the latter part of the model’s run, ideal for the fashion-forward young man (or woman).

But the most popular dials are perhaps the “panda” or “reverse panda” variants. In fact, it can be said that Breitling came up with the “reverse panda” color scheme in 1957, with the Reference 807 SuperOcean chronograph. This was a look that Breitling used throughout its catalogue, most notably in the Navitimer, but it was also seen frequently on the Top Time.

This particular Reference 810 also features the desirable AOPA logo on the dial, signifying a connection to the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association, the post-war civilian organization that gave rise to a huge increase in civil aviation for both pleasure and privately-owned business. 

A rare combination to be sure, this Ref. 810 enjoys the Top Time namesake but wears a little larger than a Ref. 2002 with its longer lugs and slightly larger (38mm) case, all whilst bearing the historic aviation connection. A better-wearing, vintage chronograph from the still under-sung manufacture is hard to find. 

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.