The Breitling Chrono-Matic Quartz, often simply referred to as the Breitling Chrono Shark (though this name isn't officially used by Breitling), represents a fascinating chapter in the brand's history. While not as celebrated as some of Breitling's mechanical masterpieces, these quartz chronographs offer a compelling blend of robust functionality, distinctive design, and surprisingly accessible pricing (relative to many other Breitling offerings). This article will delve into the specifics of this often-overlooked model, exploring its movement, design cues, and place within the broader Breitling chronograph landscape. We'll also consider its pricing in relation to other Breitling quartz and chronograph models, referencing relevant price guides and lists.
The Heart of the Beast: The Breitling Caliber B53
The beating heart of the Breitling Chrono-Matic Quartz is the Breitling Caliber B53. This isn't a bespoke Breitling movement in the sense of its completely in-house designs; rather, it's a highly modified and finished version of the ETA 251.262, a robust and reliable quartz chronograph movement widely used in the 1990s. ETA, a Swiss movement manufacturer, produced this base movement, known for its accuracy and durability. However, Breitling's involvement goes beyond simply sourcing the movement. The Caliber B53 represents Breitling's commitment to quality control and brand identity, even within a quartz context. Breitling subjected the ETA 251.262 to rigorous testing and finishing processes, ensuring it met their stringent standards. This included adjustments to the decoration, potentially adding features like perlage or Côtes de Genève, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal and aligning it with Breitling's brand image.
This approach is crucial to understanding the Breitling Chrono-Matic Quartz. While it utilizes a readily available movement, the finishing and quality control elevate it beyond a generic quartz chronograph. This reflects Breitling's philosophy: even when using a sourced movement, the final product must embody the brand's commitment to excellence. The choice of the ETA 251.262 also speaks to practicality. This movement was known for its reliability and relatively low cost, allowing Breitling to produce a robust and functional chronograph at a more accessible price point than many of their mechanical counterparts.
A Legacy of Lineage: Connections to the Chrono Sirius and Beyond
The ETA 251.262 movement wasn't exclusive to the Breitling Chrono-Matic Quartz. It was notably used in another Breitling model from the same era, the Chrono Sirius. This connection underscores the strategic thinking behind Breitling's approach to quartz movements. By utilizing a proven and reliable movement like the ETA 251.262, they could focus on refining the design and functionality of the watch itself, rather than investing heavily in the development of a completely in-house quartz caliber. The Chrono Sirius, sharing the same movement base, showcases a similar design philosophy, although with a distinct aesthetic. Both models reflect Breitling's commitment to providing high-quality, functional timepieces, regardless of the movement type. This contrasts with brands that might have shunned quartz entirely during this period, emphasizing instead the prestige associated with mechanical movements.
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