While Breitling is probably best known for aviation-related watches like the iconic Navitimer, the brand was actually founded in 1884, almost 20 years before the Wright brothers ever took their first flight. Leon Breitling's first watches were of the pocket variety, as was de rigueur of the time, before the brand transitioned into wristwatches in 1914—and released one of the first wrist-worn chronographs just a year later.

Fast-forward a few decades, and in 1964, Breitling released the Top Time. Designed to be the watch for the "next generation", it catered to the younger and more rebellious demographic of the 1960s, and at a lower price point than their more specialized timepieces.

The Top Time ref. 810 is a beautifully designed and oversized chronograph that boasts a robust 38mm case with thick, straight lugs. The ref. 810 was produced in several different case designs throughout its production. The very first case design, or Mk. I case, was a monocoque case by EPSA that was quickly replaced with a snapping back case that carried over to the Mk. II case design. The Mk. I case featured a slimmer profile through the lugs and bezel, whereas the Mk. 2 cases featured much thicker, broad lugs. Throughout the lifespan of the Breitling ref. 810, there was a commonality between the two different Breitling 810 cases, however, and that is the workhorse Venus 178 chronograph movement.

This particular ref. 810 features an unpolished gold-plated case with classic pushers and a striking "panda" dial—all the trimmings of a classic chronograph, but with the renegade attitude that could only come from the 60s.

SPECS

CASE & BRACELET

The beautiful oversized gold-plated case remains fully unpolished and in overall remarkable condition, with only minor signs of wear in a few spots. The case retains its original pump pushers and Breitling signed crown, which show a bit of wear from age. The unpolished case back retains all of its factory markings in great condition. The watch comes supplied on a two-piece handmade leather strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The stunning silver sunburst dial is in perfect condition with no marks or damage visible to the naked eye. The black metallic subdials remain clean and untouched as well. The tritium lume plots have taken on a lovely creamy yellow coloration, remaining full and round, without degradation when inspected under UV light. The original tritium hands match the dial nearly perfectly and show no lume loss or degradation under UV light inspection.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is keeping time and functioning correctly, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be provided upon request.