In 1953, Breitling introduced the 765 AVI Co-Pilot s and the brand added a first Yachting version (reference 765-Yachting-CP) in 1966, followed by a second one with a newly designed handset the next year. More versions followed in the following years such as the slightly bigger reference 7650 Yachting (1969), which was later changed to reference 7660 (1970). All these models used a Venus cal. 178 movement. In 1969 Breitling presented the Chrono-Matic, and a yacht model was in the lineup with reference 7651. The yacht madel was made in very limited quantities because the market of yacht racers was rather limited. All these chrono-matic were powered by a calibre 11 one of the first automatic chronograph movements with a date window at 6 o’clock and the crown at 9 o’clock created in a joint venture between Breitling and Heuer/Buren-Leonidas. Finally, they introduced reference 7652-Yachting version available, fitted again with a Venus 178.
These Breitling Chrono-matic were made in rather small quantities between 1969 and 1974, while all of them were chronographs they were made in a multitude of variations. Each variation had a specific usage for navigation on Air, Sea or Land. Today they make great collector's watches. They are still rare and affordable, a combination that never remains for long. Grab them while you can!
How to use a Yachting Chronograph: The bezel of this Breitling has two red sectors separated by a white sector. Each sector is equivalent to 5 minutes. If the race is due to start in 15 minutes, set the figure 15 opposite the (center) minute hand. This hand will show on the bezel the minutes remaining before the starting signal. If there are 10 minutes to go before starting signal, set figure 10 opposite the minute hand.
