The Breitling Montbrillant, named after the street in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, where Breitling established its workshops, represents a significant chapter in the brand's rich history of aviation chronographs. It's a watch that seamlessly blends historical aesthetics with modern technology, making it a coveted piece for collectors and watch enthusiasts alike. Understanding the "Neupreis" – the new price – of a Breitling Montbrillant requires navigating the various models, materials, complications, and limited editions within the collection. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Breitling Montbrillant prices, exploring different variations and shedding light on factors that influence their value.
A Brief History: The Montbrillant Legacy
Before diving into specific prices, it's crucial to appreciate the Montbrillant's heritage. The collection draws inspiration from the classic Breitling Navitimer, incorporating the iconic circular slide rule bezel used for performing crucial flight calculations. This bezel, combined with the chronograph functions, positions the Montbrillant firmly within Breitling's aviation-centric identity. However, the Montbrillant distinguished itself with unique design elements, often featuring more elaborate dials, different case materials, and a broader range of complications compared to the standard Navitimer. It represents a more refined and arguably dressier interpretation of the aviation chronograph.
Breitling Montbrillant Price: A General Overview
The price of a Breitling Montbrillant varies considerably depending on several factors. As a general guideline, you can expect to find prices ranging from approximately $3,200 USD to $10,500 USD. This is a broad range, and the specific price will depend on:
* Material: Stainless steel models are typically at the lower end of the price spectrum, while models crafted from gold (especially rose gold) command significantly higher prices.
* Complications: Time-only models (though rare in the Montbrillant collection) would be the most affordable. Chronographs are standard, but more complex complications like perpetual calendars, annual calendars, or moon phase indicators will increase the price.
* Movement: While most Montbrillant models use automatic movements, the specific movement and its finishing can influence the price. Chronometer-certified movements, indicating superior accuracy and reliability, often add to the value.
* Limited Editions: Limited edition models, produced in smaller quantities and often featuring unique design elements or historical significance, are generally more expensive due to their exclusivity and collectibility.
* Condition: For pre-owned watches, the condition plays a significant role. A watch in mint condition with original box and papers will fetch a higher price than one with significant wear and tear.
* Retailer/Source: Prices can vary depending on whether you are purchasing from an authorized dealer, a reputable online retailer, or a private seller.breitling montbrillant neupreis
Exploring Specific Montbrillant Models and Their Prices
To provide a more detailed understanding of pricing, let's examine some specific Montbrillant models and their approximate price ranges:
1. Breitling Montbrillant Chronometre (A41370):
This classic model features a stainless steel case, a chronograph function, and the iconic circular slide rule bezel. It typically houses a Breitling Caliber 41 automatic movement, which is COSC-certified as a chronometer. The dial is usually silvered or black with contrasting subdials.
* Estimated New Price (Discontinued): When new, these models would have retailed in the range of $5,000 - $7,000 USD, depending on the dial variation and bracelet/strap.
* Estimated Pre-Owned Price: Pre-owned prices for well-maintained examples typically range from $3,000 - $5,000 USD.
2. Breitling Montbrillant Datora (A21330):
The Montbrillant Datora is a more complex model, adding a full calendar complication to the chronograph function. It displays the day, date, month, and moon phase. This complication significantly increases the watch's functionality and collectibility. The "Datora" designation refers to the full calendar feature. The Breitling Montbrillant Datora movement is typically a modified ETA 2892-A2 base with a Dubois Dépraz module to handle the calendar functions.
* Estimated New Price (Discontinued): The Montbrillant Datora commanded a higher price point when new, typically ranging from $6,000 - $8,500 USD, depending on the material and dial configuration.
* Estimated Pre-Owned Price: Pre-owned Datora models can be found in the range of $4,000 - $6,500 USD, depending on condition and completeness of the set (box, papers, etc.).
3. Breitling Montbrillant 1461 Jours (A19350):