Just announced by Breitling is the newly refreshed Avenger collection that updates the entire line consisting of chronograph, GMT, and automatic models. Introduced over two decades ago as a more accessible and sporty alternative to the Chronomat, the Avenger has become a staple of Breitling’s lineup with its bold modern pilot watch style. Of course, one of the most common complaints among enthusiasts has been how large the case sizes are with the previous generation starting at 43mm and going all the way up to 48mm. Well, those detractors will be happy with this updated collection which shrinks the case sizes down substantially alongside new dials and an in-house movement for the chronograph.
The Avenger Chronograph has gone from being offered in 43, 45, and 48mm cases to a uniform 44mm across the board. Measuring 44mm wide and 15.2mm thick with a 53mm lug-to-lug height (300m of water resistance), the chronograph is now outfitted with the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01 movement replacing the old Valjoux 7750. This COSC-certified in-house movement operates at 28,800 vph with a 70-hour power reserve and boasts a column-wheel and vertical clutch. The Caliber 01 allows for the new iteration to have chronograph sub-dials at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock rather than 6, 9, and 12 o’clock which most people prefer. The date window is removed altogether and the vintage-style B Breitling logo replaces the winged logo that seems to have phased out by all but the Professional line.
The core Avenger Chronograph models come in a steel case in either black, blue, green, and sand-colored dials on a matching strap or steel bracelet. I’m glad to see Breitling also chose to update the always-cool Night Mission version which is done in a black ceramic case with either black carbon or yellow dial.
The Avenger Automatic GMT 44 also shrinks the case down a bit down from the previous 45mm iteration. Measuring 44m wide and 12mm thick with a 53mm lug-to-lug height (300 m of water resistance), the GMT largely retains the previous aesthetic albeit with the B logo rather than the wings. Still powered by the COSC-certified Breitling Caliber 32 (essentially an ETA 2893), it operates at 28,800 vph with a 42-hour power reserve.
Finally, there is the new base Avenger Automatic 42. Previously offered in 43 or 45mm versions it is now only available in 42mm which is quite a universal fit for this type of sport watch. Done in steel, the Avenger Automatic 42 measures 42mm wide and 12.15mm thick with a 51.21mm lug-to-lug height (also with 300 m of water resistance). It is still outfitted with the COSC-certified Breitling Caliber 17 (ETA 2824) that operates at 28,800 vph with a 38-hour power reserve. Again, the dial is not changed much with the exception of the Breitling logo. It is offered in black, blue, and green dial options with matching straps or steel bracelet.
Breitling clearly knows how to read the room and the new Avenger collection reflects consumers’ desire for more wearable, smaller cases that don’t push it past the 44mm mark. They also are clearly trying to move the collection upmarket with price increases across the board. The updates to the chronograph are the most substantial which is reflected in the significant price increase to $8,000 on strap and $8,250 on bracelet. The Night Mission with yellow dial is priced at $9,300 while the carbon dial version is $9,500. The Avenger Automatic GMT is priced at $5,250 on strap and $5,500 on bracelet while the Avenger Automatic 42 is $4,600 on strap and $4,850 on bracelet.
To learn more, visit Breitling, here.
The 44 mm chronographs are certainly eye-pleasers, especially when compared to something like the Tudor Black Bay. The cost increases are going to price out a lot of consumers however. Still love my oversized Super Avenger and Black Bird.