Breitling Transocean Chronograph 1915

While we're die-hard vintage Breitling fans, we can recognize good development when we see it. A couple of months ago we reported on the Breitling Transocean Chronograph. That model hankered for its roots and introduced a vintage theme and a simpler two-register layout. The new Transocean Chronograph 1915 takes that development a step further by introducing a new dial design, new case and, most importantly, a new manufacture caliber. 

The Transocean 1915 starts with a 43 mm by 14.6 mm case in polished stainless steel. Instead of applied indexes like its predecessor, the Transocean 1915 has printed Arabic numerals. Two registers, arabic numerals and a push piece at 2 o'clock – many HODINKEE readers should be thinking "montbrillant" (hence 1915, before Breitling introduced the second pusher in the '30s).

Naturally, we could do without the date, but the narrow window doesn't seem to distract from the dial as much as date windows can. Moreover, maybe you're a pilot or someone who really needs reminding of the date alone. Either way, the numerals, printed second markers, and printed Breitling logo in cursive add up to a motif oriented toward old-school utility. The pusher at 2 o'clock is faceted and contoured to run along the edge of the case, which is a fetching design choice that may enhance functionality.

Inside the Transocean 1915 beats the manufacture caliber B14, which is visible through a sapphire crystal case back. It is a manually wound movement that beats at 28,800 vph with a 70-hour power reserve. In addition to being COSC certified, the B14 is equipped with a two-tiered, double-column wheel system.

As expected, the Transocean 1915 is water resistant to 100 meters. While the model comes on a steel mesh strap, it is also available on a brown crocodile leather band with white stitching. The Transocean Chronograph 1915 is limited to 1,915 pieces with pricing yet to be announced.