The world of vintage chronographs is a complex and fascinating landscape, populated by iconic movements and legendary brands. Within this landscape, the Breitling Navitimer equipped with the Valjoux 72 movement holds a unique and highly coveted position. Unlike some of its more prolific chronograph brethren, the Valjoux 72-powered Breitling hasn't achieved fame through ubiquitous production. Instead, its importance, as noted by watch expert George Koullapis, is "by dint of sheer time served and genuine rarity." This article will delve deep into the history, characteristics, and significance of the Breitling Valjoux 72, exploring its various iterations and its enduring appeal to collectors.
Valjoux 72: A Revolution in Watchmaking
The Valjoux 72 itself represents a significant step forward in chronograph technology. While not as widely known as some of its Valjoux counterparts like the 7730 or 7750, the 72 boasts a unique architecture and features that set it apart. Developed during a period of intense innovation in watchmaking, the Valjoux 72 showcased a high level of sophistication for its time. Its column-wheel mechanism, a hallmark of high-quality chronographs, ensured precise and reliable operation. This contrasts with the cam-actuated systems found in some less expensive chronographs, which often suffered from less precise actuation and increased wear. The column wheel's smooth, sequential operation contributed to a superior feel and enhanced longevity.
One of the key features differentiating the Valjoux 72 was its compact design. This allowed it to be integrated into a range of watch cases, contributing to the versatility of the movement. Its relatively small size, compared to later, more integrated chronographs, is a testament to the ingenuity of its design. This compact nature is a significant factor in the desirability of the Breitling Navitimers that house it, contributing to their elegant and refined aesthetic. The Valjoux 72 wasn't just about size; it was about efficiency. Its design minimized the number of parts, reducing the risk of malfunction and simplifying maintenance.
Willy Breitling and the Valjoux 72 VZH
The partnership between Breitling and the Valjoux 72 is inextricably linked to the legacy of Willy Breitling. Willy, grandson of the company founder Léon Breitling, was instrumental in shaping Breitling's identity as a purveyor of high-quality, functional chronographs. His influence is clearly visible in the choice of the Valjoux 72 for the Navitimer. The resulting timepieces, often denoted as "VZH" (a reference to a specific Breitling internal reference number and sometimes mistakenly attributed solely to the movement itself), represent a pinnacle of Willy Breitling's era. The "VZH" designation adds another layer of intrigue and desirability to these already rare watches.
The Willy Breitling 72 VZH models are highly sought after by collectors. Their rarity stems from several factors. Firstly, the Valjoux 72 itself was never a mass-produced movement. Secondly, Breitling's production runs for these specific models were relatively limited. Finally, the passage of time has taken its toll, with many examples lost or damaged over the decades. These factors combine to create a highly exclusive market for these vintage timepieces. The combination of the robust Valjoux 72 and Breitling's iconic Navitimer design resulted in a watch that was both practical and aesthetically pleasing, further contributing to its enduring appeal.
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