Breitling has unveiled an extraordinary tribute to aerospace history with the Navitimer B02 Chronograph 41 Cosmonaute Scott Carpenter Centenary, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the pioneering astronaut’s birth.
While the Omega Speedmaster claims fame as the first watch on the moon, it was actually a specially modified Breitling Navitimer that earned the distinction of being the first Swiss timepiece to venture into space, worn by Scott Carpenter during his historic Aurora 7 mission.
First Swiss Watch In Space
The original Cosmonaute emerged from Carpenter’s specific requirements for orbital timekeeping, incorporating unique modifications that differentiated it from terrestrial aviation watches.
Most notably, the timepiece features a 24-hour scale rather than the conventional 12-hour format, eliminating reliance on solar position indicators that become meaningless when orbiting Earth every 90 minutes. This adaptation allowed astronauts to maintain synchronization with ground control without confusion over day and night cycles.
Additional space-specific modifications included a wider bezel with pronounced grip for operation while wearing thick spacesuit gloves, and traditionally a stretch metal bracelet designed to fit over bulky spacesuits. However, this centenary edition embraces terrestrial luxury, pairing a stunning blue alligator leather strap with the blue sunray brushed dial for elegant earthbound wear.
The most striking upgrade lies in the case material—platinum rather than steel, creating an even more exclusive version than 2024’s gold edition. At 41mm diameter and 13mm thick, the platinum case maintains tool watch proportions while elevating the timepiece to luxury status. The blue sunray dial paired with white snailed chronograph subdials and matching slide rule bezel creates a refreshing departure from the black-dominant Navitimer iterations of recent years.
Mechanical Excellence with Historic Tribute
Powering this centenary celebration is Breitling’s manufacture Caliber B02, a manually-wound column-wheel chronograph delivering 70-hour power reserve with COSC chronometer certification.
The beautifully finished movement showcases radial Côtes de Genève emanating from the exposed balance wheel, while special engravings commemorate Carpenter’s historic achievement with references to “Aurora 7” and “3 orbits around the Earth.”
The exhibition caseback features additional inscriptions dedicating the watch to Scott Carpenter while confirming its status as a 50-piece limited edition. These commemorative details transform the timepiece from mere luxury object into genuine historical tribute, connecting modern collectors with pioneering space exploration achievements.
Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, the B02 movement represents Breitling’s contemporary manufacturing capabilities while honoring the brand’s aviation and space exploration heritage. The manual winding mechanism adds tactile engagement that connects wearers to the watch’s operational requirements—particularly appropriate for a timepiece celebrating human achievement in space.
Priced at £34,000, the Cosmonaute Scott Carpenter Centenary reflects its platinum construction, limited production, and historical significance. The combination of precious metal case, manufacture movement, and authentic space exploration heritage creates compelling value for collectors seeking timepieces with genuine adventure credentials.
For enthusiasts of both horological excellence and aerospace history, this centenary Cosmonaute represents the ultimate convergence of Swiss watchmaking tradition and pioneering spirit.
By honoring Scott Carpenter’s legacy through platinum luxury and mechanical precision, Breitling demonstrates how contemporary craftsmanship can pay meaningful tribute to historic achievement—creating timepieces that celebrate both past exploration and future possibilities.
