Breitling Just Launched a Squadron of New Avenger Night Mission Models
Not all heroes wear capes, and not all Avengers are part of a cinematic universe. Breitling’s Avenger collection was introduced more than two decades ago (well before the similarly-named blockbuster movie franchise, in case you were wondering) and it has since joined other greats like the Navitimer and Chronomat as some of the brand’s most coveted pilot watches. With a case made to absorb knocks with aplomb and a dial designed for maximum legibility, it was created for jet pilots whose elite cockpit skills and occasional death-defying exploits give them more in common with caped crusaders than you might think. “These watches are ready for every challenge, from supersonic flight speeds to difficult operations,” affirms Breitling CEO Georges Kern. “These are some of the most robust watches we make.”
The Avenger collection now numbers more than two dozen variants, including chronographs and GMTs, with case sizes ranging from easy-wearing 42 mm to statement-making 46 mm. Among the many different styles, sizes, and materials on offer, however, the Night Mission models tend to stand out thanks to their sleek matte black cases inspired by the materials used in high-performance aircraft. This season, Breitling has expanded the Avenger Night Mission selection with several new models, each offering a different take on the Avenger’s looks and functionality. With 300 m water resistance and corrosion-resistant construction, each promises to add a dash of cockpit style to your look and — just maybe — make you feel a little bit more like a superhero.
Super Avenger B01 Chronograph 46 Night Mission in Green
Super Avenger B01 Chronograph 46 Night Mission in Green
Super Avenger B01 Chronograph 46 Night Mission in Green
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The new Super Avenger B01 Chronograph 46 Night Mission doesn’t have any superpowers, per se, but it does have an XXL 46 mm case that’s as tough as the Hulk on a bad day. Its case and bezel are made of scratch-resistant ceramic, and the case back, crown, pushers, and buckle are crafted from solid titanium — an aerospace material with the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal. In addition to a khaki green calfskin strap with a hazard yellow lining, the dial features large numerals (an important factor for any true pilot’s watch) and a uniquely mottled carbon surface. While not a true GMT watch, you can still track a second time zone at a glance thanks to the 24-hour rotating bezel. ($12,450)
Avenger B01 Chronograph 42 Night Mission in Sand and Turquoise
Avenger B01 Chronograph 42 Night Mission in Sand and Turquoise
Avenger B01 Chronograph 42 Night Mission in Sand and Turquoise
Avenger B01 Chronograph 42 Night Mission in Sand and Turquoise
Avenger B01 Chronograph 42 Night Mission in Sand and Turquoise
Avenger B01 Chronograph 42 Night Mission in Sand and Turquoise
Avenger B01 Chronograph 42 Night Mission in Sand and Turquoise
Avenger B01 Chronograph 42 Night Mission in Sand and Turquoise
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They may be the smallest members of the Avengers squad, but they’re by far the most eye-catching thanks to their sand and turquoise-coloured military leather straps and — in the case of the turquoise model — a matching blue dial. The Sand model goes a subtler route with khaki-coloured numerals that contrast nicely against the black ceramic case and black dial. Both of these 42 mm models are powered by the Breitling Manufacture Caliber B01, with a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. ($12,200/$11,950)
Avenger Automatic 42 Night Mission in Black
Avenger Automatic 42 Night Mission in Black
Avenger Automatic 42 Night Mission in Black
Avenger Automatic 42 Night Mission in Black
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This might be the subtlest addition to the Avengers lineup, thanks to its mid-sized 42 mm case and monochrome colour scheme, but it’s no less cockpit-worthy than the rest. In addition to its black ceramic case, black carbon dial, and anthracite calfskin strap with contrasting yellow lining, this Avenger adds the functionality of a date window at three o’clock. Behind the dial is an automatic Breitling Caliber 17 movement with a 38-hour power reserve. Like all Breitling movements, it’s COSC-certified for accuracy, reliability, and durability, which is as useful when you’re pulling G’s at 10,000 metres as it is when you’re hustling to make your connection at the airport. ($7,900)
