Breitling’s Heritage Exhibition, a tribute to 140 years of horological innovation, is currently on a worldwide tour, making 55 stops across four continents. The exhibition has now reached Bengaluru, India, offering watch enthusiasts a rare opportunity to explore Breitling’s pioneering contributions to watchmaking firsthand.
Established in 1884, Breitling has long been at the forefront of timekeeping innovation. The brand has been responsible for several groundbreaking advancements, including the invention of the modern chronograph, the development of the first pilot’s watch with a circular slide rule, and the launch of the first Swiss wristwatch into space. Breitling has also introduced the first dive chronograph, co-developed the first automatic chronograph movement, and was the first to achieve 100% COSC-certified movements. Continuing its tradition of excellence, Breitling remains a leader in the industry with modern innovations such as the first traceable watch and a series of in-house movements produced at the Breitling Chronometrie.
In celebration of this legacy, Breitling is marking its anniversary year with the theme “140 Years of Firsts.” The Time Capsule exhibition provides a unique opportunity to witness the brand’s milestone timepieces up close.
Time Capsule: A Journey Through Breitling’s History
The exhibition is set to make 55 stops across North America, Europe, Oceania, and Asia (including the Middle East), offering a curated showcase of Breitling’s most iconic watches. Each piece on display highlights key moments in the brand’s history, pairing vintage models with their modern counterparts.
“We’ve launched Time Capsule to honor our heritage and celebrate our breakthroughs,” said Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling. “Each exhibition is a captivating journey that connects our heritage with the present, allowing guests to witness the evolution and lasting spirit of our brand.”
“The Time Capsule exhibition is more than a showcase—it’s a testament to Breitling’s spirit of innovation and adventure. As India’s leading watch retailer, Ethos is proud to present this landmark event, allowing Indian clientele to explore the groundbreaking creations that have redefined timekeeping,” said Yashovardhan Saboo, Founder & Chairman, Ethos Watches.
Exhibition Highlights
Gaston Breitling’s Mono-Pusher (1915): The first chronograph to separate the stopwatch function from the crown, revolutionizing timekeeping.
Willy Breitling’s Populaires (1937): Inspired by the Kodak Brownie camera, designed for accessibility, this line made chronographs widely available by offering them at an affordable price point.
Cocktail Watches (1940s): Exquisite women’s watches crafted in gold and adorned with gemstones, showcasing Breitling’s dedication to elegance and craftsmanship.
The First Smartwatch (1942): The Chronomat, a groundbreaking watch equipped with a circular slide rule, functioned as an analog calculator and paved the way for future innovations like the Navitimer.
The Navitimer (1952): A revolutionary pilot’s watch featuring a circular slide rule, transforming it into the world’s first wrist-worn flight computer. Adopted by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), it became a favorite among aviators and style icons.
The Cosmonaute (1962): A Navitimer with a 24-hour display, developed at the request of astronaut Scott Carpenter for space travel. It became the first Swiss wristwatch worn in space.
The Chrono-Matic (1969): The result of a top-secret collaboration with Heuer Leonidas, Hamilton Buren, and Dubois-Depraz, this movement was the first chronograph to incorporate an automatic caliber.
The Emergency (1995): The world’s first watch equipped with an international distress beacon, designed to aid in search-and-rescue operations.
An Interactive Experience
Time Capsule is an open-access exhibition designed to engage visitors with Breitling’s history. The displays are housed in vintage-inspired steamer trunks, and guests can scan QR codes to access in-depth information about each timepiece on display.
Time Capsule: The Breitling Heritage Exhibition is currently on display at the Breitling Boutique in Mall of Asia, Bengaluru, until February 28. It will then move to the Breitling Boutique in Palladium Mall, Velachery, Chennai, from March 6 to 13, followed by the Breitling Boutique in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, from March 20 to 25.
