As part of Breitling’s year-long salute to the 100th anniversary of naval aviation, the Swiss watchmaker has produced a special timepiece: the Naval Centennial Limited Edition Airwolf. The first piece of this series has been on a journey that took it across the globe and into space, and will conclude with an auction to benefit the National Flight Academy.
The Limited Edition Airwolf was officially unveiled in January 2011 at the grand opening of Breitling’s flagship boutique in Manhattan. The commemorative timepiece features functions utilized by pilots: 1/100th of a second chronograph with split times, alarm, countdown, 2nd timezone with independent alarm, UTC and perpetual calendar. The NVG-compatible display backlighting system enables night-time read-off and a turbine-shaped caseback serves as a resonance chamber for the alarm.
According to company officials, 500 were produced, with 50 given to the 100th Anniversary of Naval Aviation Foundation, of which Breitling is a Silver National Sponsor. For each additional watch sold, $100 will be donated back to the foundation.
The first piece produced (#1) has spent the year traveling around the globe with naval aviators. On its first and most momentous journey, it traveled beyond the earth’s orbit on a historic flight with the space shuttle Endeavour in May. Commander Mark Kelly wore the watch in space during his and the shuttle’s last flight before retirement.
Breitling will auction the #1 timepiece to benefit the National Flight Academy, whose mission is to inspire students in science, technology, engineering and math through aviation. More information announcing the auction details will be forthcoming.
Throughout the year, Breitling has participated in events and celebrations that tie in with the watchmaker’s long-time affiliation with the world of aviation. The 100th Anniversary of Naval Aviation Foundation is a non-profit organization founded to commemorate the Navy’s historical anniversary and honor and raise awareness for naval aviation.
The Naval Centennial Limited Edition Airwolf will be sold at Breitling’s flagship Manhattan boutique and through its network of authorized retailers (retail price $4,500). For more information: Breitling.com.
