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Lot #4364

Breitling Unitime Worldtimer 1-260 Gold Plated

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Introduction

Designed for pilots, in keeping with so many other iconic chronograph models from Breitling, the Unitime was launched in the 1950s and inspired by the Breitling 765 ‘AVI’ that preceded it and was launched in 1953. With its predecessor, the 765, being the inspiration for several pilot-issued chronographs that entered the market soon after it like the Breguet Type XX, it is no surprise that the Unitime features the same design language given the design’s prior success. Offered as a member of the Unitime family, the watch that we have here is the Unitime Worldtimer ref. 1-260 from the mid-1950s. Featuring a robust 37mm gold-plated stainless steel case, a legible dial design with a two-tone grey and black 24-hour ring that encircles its applied indices and subtle world map, the resulting display is decidedly luxurious and understated, with it resembling that of other iconic mid-century worldtimers from the likes of Patek Philippe and so on.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

V 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$3,000 – $5,000

The Details

Brand

Breitling

Dimensions

37mm

Model

Unitimer Worldtimer

Movement

Automatic cal. Felsa 711

Reference

1-260

Bracelet

Leather strap

Year

Circa 1955

Condition

Excellent

Material

Gold-plated stainless steel

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

Silver

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Boasting a silver dial with a two-tone grey and black 24-hour ring to delineate between its time display and two rows of city names, the Unitime Worldtimer's display is classical and wonderfully timeless.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

With its large 37mm case and faceted lugs, the Unitime Worldtimer was a huge watch for the 1950s, but as a result it is the perfect size for today's fashion.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT
TIMING MACHINE READOUT

This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.

Condition

Overall excellent condition. The gold-plated case has some light scratches and small nicks, as expected of a watch of this vintage. The gold plating remains in excellent condition overall. The steel case back shows light scratches but retains very well-defined engravings. The bezel has gentle wear, with some plating loss around the edges, and the B-logo winding crown also shows light wear on its edges. The dial has minor surface spotting, while the hands remain very clean. The watch is fitted with a brown leather strap and steel buckle, both in excellent condition.

Our Perspective

An iconic piece of mid-century Breitling design, the Unitime Worldtimer is a wonderful example of the brand's impressive craftsmanship and horological output.

Eric Ku

Co-founder