The legendary rivalry between the Italian cycling greats Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali not only moved the sporting world in the 1940s and 1950s, but an entire nation. Breitling is now honouring these two icons and former brand ambassadors with a new, limited Top Time B01 collection. These watches are not only a tribute to the sporting successes of the two cyclists, but also to their extraordinary friendship. The series comprises two limited-edition models: the Top Time B01 Fausto Coppi and the Top Time B01 Gino Bartali.
The case of the Breitling Top Time B01 models reflects the robust yet elegant aesthetics expected of a high-quality chronograph. Made from stainless steel, the case measures 41 millimetres in diameter with a height of 13.3 millimetres and has a striking presence on the wrist.
Both models are equipped with a cambered sapphire crystal that is anti-reflective on both sides to ensure optimum readability in different lighting conditions. Watch enthusiasts can take a look at the finely crafted movement through the screw-down, open case back. This is engraved with the words ‘Fausto Coppi Tribute’ or ‘Gino Bartali Tribute’ and ‘One of 750’.
The water resistance of up to 100 metres also makes the watches suitable for sports without compromising on elegance. The crown is not screwed down, but is fitted with two seals to ensure a reliable seal. The mushroom-shaped pushers for operating the chronograph are located above and below the crown.
The Top Time B01 Fausto Coppi stands out with its white dial, which is complemented by turquoise-coloured sub-dials and an eye-catching orange, lightning-shaped second hand. With this colour choice Breitling directly alludes to Coppi’s iconic bicycle. In contrast, the dial of the Top Time B01 Gino Bartali is inspired by Bartali’s famous jersey and is characterised by white counters on a blue background.
Both dials are equipped with Super-LumiNova coated hour and minute hands to ensure clear legibility even in poor lighting conditions. The chronograph counters at 9 for the 1/4 second and 3 o’clock for 30 minutes are either white-turquoise or blue-white. Their unusual shape gives the watches an unmistakable character, as they are designed in the shape of super circles (not quite square, not quite round). The watches are given a personal touch by the signatures of the cycling legends at six o’clock and the engraved nicknames on the tachymetre scale: ‘Il Campionissimo’ and ‘L’Intramontabile’.
At the heart of the Top Time B01 watches beats the COSC-certified Breitling Manufacture Calibre 01, which is renowned for its precision and longevity. With a diameter of 30 millimetres and a depth of 7.2 millimetres, it is a compact yet powerful automatic movement. It has a power reserve of around 70 hours, which means that the watch will continue to run reliably even after a weekend without being worn. The movement operates at a frequency of 4 Hertz, which ensures high accuracy and smooth movement of the second hand. The chronograph’s switching wheel control and vertical clutch ensure smooth operation and precise timekeeping.
Both models are available with either a perforated calfskin strap or a stainless steel mesh strap. The calfskin strap is designed in a racing style and gives the watch a sporty yet sophisticated look. It is available in the colours turquoise for the Coppi model and blue for the Bartali model, matching the respective dial colours. The leather versions are fitted with a folding clasp that offers a secure hold and comfort.
Alternatively, the watches can be combined with a stainless steel mesh strap with a butterfly clasp. This strap lends the watches a timeless and elegant touch that goes particularly well with the classic design of the Top Time models. Both strap options ensure a comfortable fit and make the watches a versatile companion for different occasions.
The Breitling Top Time B01 models are exclusive collector’s items that are produced in strictly limited editions of only 750 pieces each. The price of the Top Time B01 Fausto Coppi is 7,250 euros for the version with calfskin strap and 7,650 euros for the model with stainless steel bracelet. The Top Time B01 Gino Bartali is available at the same prices.
