In Conversation with Gavin Murphy

By Sarah Jayne Potter | 2 minute read

In our latest episode of our Calibre Podcast, our CEO Brian Duffy interviews Gavin Murphy, Managing Director of Breitling (UK). They discuss his career history and his role at the company, as well as some of the most exciting releases and technical developments from Breitling from last year, and upcoming for 2021.

2020 was an unusual year for many, but Breitling stormed ahead with their brand new releases in the Spring. We saw them unveil their new Chronomat, Superocean and Navitimer 35 collections to much applause.

Unveiled by Breitling CEO Georges Kern on 16 April via the brand’s first-ever webcast, the all-new Chronomat Collection reimagines an iconic timepiece of the Eighties by delivering a modern and versatile unisex sports watch. Aimed at men and women of “purpose, action and style”, the Chronomat collection included the Chronomat B01 Bentley. A stainless-steel case with a refined British racing-green dial, evoked the spirit of vintage motor racing while celebrating the brand’s long-lasting partnership with the British luxury car manufacturer.

Georges Kern also revealed the Superocean collection, embodying the informal surfing lifestyle of the Sixties and adding a contemporary twist to ensure the watch remains a valid choice for the modern wearer.

Starting from the solid foundations of the original 1957 SuperOcean, the collection continues Breitling’s legacy of producing iconic, groundbreaking models that suit life on the water. Each of the Superocean Heritage ’57 models features the concave bezel, oversized indexes and a modern 42mm case, secured with an ultra-thin mesh bracelet or vintage-inspired leather strap.

The Navitimer 35 combines the historic appeal of the iconic Navitimer with the simplicity of a contemporary timepiece. The new 35mm case with historic beaded bezel, is perfectly sized for smaller wrists and women who have long requested a Navitimer with a more feminine case size. A sublime blend of elegance and sophistication, the refined dial features the distinctive slide rule and is presented with a selection of executions in precious materials including Mother-of-Pearl and diamond. This long awaited evolution is designed for women drawn to both the elegance of this chic timepiece and to the unequalled heritage of a Navitimer.

A little later on we saw the brand unveil their new Endurance Pro range as part of Geneva Watch Days 2020. This is a collection of tool watches that have long been favourites of explorers and pilots. The Endurance Pro encapsulates the fundamentals of the Professional range and seamlessly combines a sporting aesthetic and functionality. Taking inspiration from sports has long been part of Breitling’s legacy, and they have partnered with major sporting events such as the Giro d’Italia and worldwide rallies within motorsports.

Most exciting for us was of course our partnership with Breitling on the Watches of Switzerland Group Exclusive Special Edition Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42. It combines function with style, and is a high performing model, one that is worthy of the legacies of both companies, as well as any watch collector.

The history of the Breitling Premier dates back to the 1940s, where the timepieces were the perfect accompaniment to the remarkable changes taking place all over the world. In 2018, Breitling released new models that extended that legacy, reflecting the historic design codes and proud history while still remaining modern and stylish and in 2020, we partnered up on a new piece in the family.

For 2021, Breitling have already started off strong, with the release of several timepieces including the Red Arrows and the Top Time Deus.

Co-designed with Deus Ex Machina, the Top Time Deus chronograph is a nod to Breitling’s original 1960s edition and a true tribute to the nomad spirit. The first Breitling Top Time had a clear mission – suiting the needs of young and active professionals with a range of ultra-modern chronographs. The retro vibe of today’s edition pays homage to it’s ancestor, while still remaining modern for the needs of today. It’s not about keeping time, but rather expanding it whenever adventure beckons.

The Chronomat Red Arrows Limited Edition is the latest in Breitling’s collection of Limited-Edition pieces in partnership with the Royal Air Force. As the official sponsor of the world-renowned Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, this truly is a partnership of precision. Limited to just 160 pieces, the latest timepiece pays tribute to each of the 160 pilots who have served with the Red Arrows since 1965. Featuring the Red Arrows Diamond Nine logo, this collector’s edition will live on through generations.

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In Conversation with Gavin Murphy