The Super AVI collection returns to the classic Breitling formula: aviation-inspired oversized watches

Through the past couple of launches, Breitling has grown its collection to include references for a diverse crowd of watch enthusiasts. On top of their staple Navitimer and Superocean collections, you can now also enjoy more dressy watches, retro-styled steel sports watch with a unique bracelet and they even have options for the hardcore outdoorsman. With the latest Breitling Super AVI collection, however, they have gone back to their staples offering a watch that harks back not only to the aviation roots of Breitling but also the oversized case diameters that some fans have come to love.

If you catch yourself thinking that the Super AVI collection looks quite like the legendary Breguet Type XX, that’s because the inspiration for this collection came from the Breitling Ref. 765 AVI, a reference that was created around the same period as the Breguet in 1953. If you quite like the vintage version, in 2020 Breitling did launch a faithful recreation of this watch. The Super AVI collection however takes the spirit of the 765 and updates it with modern design cues.

The four steel models in this collection are chunky, to say the least. 46 mm in diameter and 15.9 mm thick means that it certainly has a commanding presence. On the wrist, however, it sat quite comfortably even despite its size and that was mostly thanks to its relatively shorter lugs. Three references come with a bi-directional polished steel bezel while one is equipped with black ceramic. The colours for each model are inspired by one of four vintage aeroplanes, each chosen for their game-changing role in aviation: P-51 Mustang, Vought F4U Corsair, Curtiss P-40 Warhawk and the de Havilland Mosquito.

All references are equipped with chronograph GMT movements, all the functions a budding pilot needs. The Breitling Manufacture Caliber B04 offers a column wheel, vertical clutch chronograph module and has a power reserve of approximately 70 hours.

The Breitling Super AVI collection starts from MYR 43,800 but for those who like this rugged watch but want to dress it up, there is even an 18k red gold version. Just be prepared to pay quite a hefty sum for a gold watch in 46 mm.