The Breitling Cockpit B50 is the latest design released by this venerable Swiss brand. The B50 is not a completely new design as many fans of the brand might notice but it is the first time that this particular watch type is housed in a titanium case. This model is very close to the B52 (a watch that got discontinued in the mid 00’s) in its aesthetics. The B52 though, was made in stainless steel. If I remember correctly the B52 enjoyed a great deal of success as it was not only very functional but was also a rugged looking watch – a winning combination by any standard.
Breitling uses Grade II titanium for its watches, which is known for its hypoallergenic nature, anti-corrosiveness, and tensile strength. The Cockpit B50 is offered in two versons – black titanium, and grey titanium for the case. The bidirectional bezel features markings in degrees. Actually, Breitling offers you a way to discern the North Pole by using the analog hands. The technique varies slightly whether you are in the southern or the northern hemisphere. If you are in the northern hemisphere then point the 12 position in line with the sun. Bisect the distance between the hour hand and the 12 position and that will give you north.
Breitling gives this model a water resistance rating of 100 meters, which makes it good for daily usage and even some light swimming. Bracelet options include the Ocean Racer or the Professional titanium bracelet. The main crown changes the functions with a quick turn and it protected by a twin gaskets that aid in the water resistance. All of this is fitted in a case that measures 46mm across and 16.45mm thick. Despite its large size, the case itself is not that heavy, weighing just over 94 grams.
The black dial features two LCD digital displays – one for the function, and the other the reading. The hands and hour markers carry Super-Lumi-Nova® for nighttime readability. Protecting the dial is a scratch resistant sapphire crystal, which has been glare proofed on both sides.
This model is fitted with an in-house made Breitling Superquartz™ movement caliber B50. Superquartz™ is one of a handful of quartz mechanisms that is eligible for COSC certification, maintaining Breitling’s 100% COSC certification record. Superquartz™ is so spectacularly accurate because it keeps the temperature stable. Functions for the Cockpit B50 include: a chronograph, electronic tachymeter, 2nd time zone, an alarm, military time format, display backlight, and an EOL or End of Life indicator.
TAGS: Bidirectional Bezel, Black DLC Titanium, Breitling, Chronographs, Cockpit B50, COSC, Date, Day, GMT, Men's Watches, Perpetual Calendar, Quartz Watches, Rubber, Sapphire Crystal, Swiss Made, Tachymeter, Titanium, Water Resistant