Breitling has had an eventful 2023 in total, capping off generational updates to nearly every one of their collections. No, we didn’t get a new Areospace (fingers crossed for ‘24 on that one), but we have seen a step forward in connecting their classic nameplates, from the Avenger, to the Avi, to the Superocean, each to more modern footing upon which they are starting to build. They are ending the year on the Superocean Heritage, with a new capsule collection inspired by the Scottish Highlands, bringing a slew of new tones and textures to the classic diver in the process. But this isn’t the only reason that Breitling is on a lot of minds as we approach the holiday season.
We’ve already discussed the bigger news from Breitling, which will reverberate well into 2024 and beyond, and that is their connection to the reemergence of the Universal Geneva name. This monumental move is, for many, the biggest story of the year, and quite a surprise at that. As capable as Breitling has been at repositioning themselves in a manner that celebrates and builds on their past, there is some serious contrast between these two brands, and what has proved effective for Breitling will likely not be the turn-key solution for Universal Geneve. That said, Breitling can exercise a deft hand when needed, and the Superocean Heritage is likely the best example of that.
This latest capsule collection features 4 new colorways of the Superocean Heritage ‘57 dive watch, all meant to evoke the feeling of a stroll through the Scottish Highlands in the northwest region of Scotland. Think muted earth tones and rich tweed textures, and Breitling has placed this watch in a very specific vibe that suits the watch rather well. Each of the dial colors is carried through to the wide and low bezel insert, and they each get gold accents throughout the dial and bezel. The accenting fabric straps that come with the watch here complete the package, picking up tones and textures you’d find in a tweed jacket suitable for the climate of the Highlands. Steel mesh bracelets come as standard, making these watches more broadly approachable throughout the year.
The steel cases of these new Superocean Heritage ’57 references represent a departure from the existing ‘57 models, in that the case size has been reduced from 42mm, to 38mm in diameter, and just 9.35mm in thickness. This is a welcome change as the flared bezel offers plenty of presence on the wrist from a visual perspective, so this new case size should look and feel about right in the sweet spot for many. This is a case size we’d love to see across a wider selection of Superocean Heritage colorways.
Within these watches resides the Breitling Caliber 10, an ETA 2892-A2 variation, allowing for the svelte dimensions and should keep the watch broadly and easily serviceable into the foreseeable future. The price, which is inclusive of both steel and fabric strap options, is $6,250. Breitling.