Breitling, a name synonymous with aviation-inspired timepieces and rugged durability, has a long and complex history intertwined with the renowned Swiss movement manufacturer ETA. While Breitling is increasingly known for its in-house movements, a significant portion of its legacy, and indeed a substantial number of its current models, rely on modified ETA calibers. Understanding this relationship is crucial to appreciating the brand's history and the quality of its watches, particularly those featuring the Breitling Caliber 17, often found within the popular Breitling Superocean B17 collection.
This article delves deep into the specifics of Breitling's use of ETA movements, focusing on the Caliber 17, its origins, modifications, performance, and place within the broader context of Breitling's horological journey. We will explore the common misconceptions surrounding the "in-house" nature of this caliber, examining its base ETA 2824-2 or Sellita SW200-1 origins and the value proposition it offers in the context of the Superocean B17.
Breitling Caliber 17 Movement: A Closer Look
The Breitling Caliber 17 is not, strictly speaking, an in-house movement. This is a crucial point to understand. While Breitling extensively modifies and enhances the base movement, its foundation lies in the widely respected ETA 2824-2 or the functionally equivalent Sellita SW200-1. Both are automatic, self-winding mechanical movements known for their robustness and reliability. This is a key factor contributing to the Superocean B17's reputation for durability.
The Caliber 17 boasts a size of 11.5''' lignes, a standard dimension for this type of movement. The crucial difference lies in Breitling's modifications. These modifications aren't simply cosmetic; they significantly impact the movement's performance and functionality. Breitling's watchmakers enhance the base movement with features crucial for its integration into a Breitling watch, optimizing it for the specific requirements of the Superocean B17. These modifications often include:
* COSC Certification: One of the most significant enhancements is the inclusion of the prestigious Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC) certification. This rigorous testing process ensures the movement meets strict accuracy standards, guaranteeing a high level of precision. This is a significant upgrade over the standard ETA 2824-2 or Sellita SW200-1, which are not automatically COSC-certified. The COSC certification dramatically elevates the Caliber 17's perceived value and places it in a higher tier of watch movements.
* Finishing and Decoration: Breitling often applies its own unique finishing touches to the Caliber 17, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. This can include perlage, Côtes de Genève, and other decorative elements that add visual sophistication to the movement, often visible through the display caseback of the Superocean B17.
* Specific Functionality: Depending on the specific Superocean B17 model, additional modifications might be implemented to support specific complications, although the Caliber 17 itself primarily focuses on timekeeping accuracy.
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