The Breitling Navitimer, a watch synonymous with aviation history and sophisticated design, boasts a legacy spanning decades. Within that legacy, the reference A13022 holds a special place, often associated with earlier models and coveted by collectors. While the reference number itself doesn't directly identify the crystal, understanding the context of the A13022 – specifically its association with older Navitimer models – helps us understand the type of crystal typically found within. This article will explore the Breitling crystal A13022 (understood as the crystal commonly found in Breitling Navitimer A13022 watches), its characteristics, and the broader context of the watch itself, touching upon related models like the Breitling B13352 Chronomat Chronometer and offering insights into pricing.
Deciphering the A13022: Context and Significance
The Breitling Navitimer A13022 isn't a designation found on the watch's dial. Instead, it's a reference number used internally by Breitling or within the collector community to identify a specific iteration, likely an older model of the Navitimer. These older models, often referred to as "old Navitimer Breitling" or "Breitling old Navitimer A13022," are highly sought after for their vintage appeal and often represent a specific era in Breitling's manufacturing history. Precisely pinpointing the exact specifications associated with A13022 requires further investigation using serial numbers and potentially contacting Breitling directly or consulting expert watch collectors. However, the reference number provides a starting point for identifying a specific generation of Navitimer.
The significance of understanding the A13022 lies in its connection to the type of crystal used. Older Breitling Navitimers, including those potentially associated with A13022, were more commonly equipped with acrylic crystals or, increasingly towards the later years of production of that specific generation, sapphire crystals. Acrylic crystals, while more susceptible to scratches, offered a unique vintage charm and a softer, warmer appearance than the modern, harder sapphire crystals. Sapphire crystals, on the other hand, are significantly more scratch-resistant and provide superior protection for the watch's dial and movement. Determining whether an A13022 Navitimer features an acrylic or sapphire crystal requires a visual inspection or access to the watch's service history.
The Breitling Crystal: Acrylic vs. Sapphire
The choice of crystal material significantly impacts the overall experience of owning a Breitling Navitimer. Let's delve deeper into the characteristics of each:
Acrylic Crystals:
* Scratch Resistance: Relatively low. Acrylic is prone to scratching, especially with daily wear. This is a characteristic many collectors appreciate as it adds to the watch's patina and tells a story of its history.
* Durability: While prone to scratches, acrylic crystals are generally quite durable and can withstand impacts better than sapphire in some cases. They are also less likely to shatter upon impact.
* Appearance: Acrylic crystals typically offer a warmer, slightly more yellowish tint compared to the clarity of sapphire. This subtle warmth contributes to the vintage aesthetic of older Navitimers.
* Repair: Scratches on acrylic crystals can often be buffed out or polished, restoring some of their clarity. However, deep scratches might require a complete crystal replacement.
Sapphire Crystals:
current url:https://gnoras.c673n.com/guide/breitling-crystal-a13022-91856