Breitling Honors Cycling Legend Eddy Merckx With A New Top Time B01
Breitling expands its cycling-inspired Top Time collection with the new Top Time B01 Eddy Merckx, a limited edition chronograph created in tribute to Belgian cycling legend Eddy Merckx.

A Dial Inspired By The Yellow Jersey
The standout feature of the new edition is undoubtedly its vivid yellow dial, a direct reference to the famous Maillot Jaune worn by the leader of the Tour de France. The choice of colour is particularly fitting given that Merckx still holds the record for the most days spent wearing the yellow jersey, having led the race for a total of 96 days throughout his career.

The dial combines the bright yellow background with contrasting silver chronograph counters shaped in the distinctive rounded-square style that has become a signature element of the Top Time collection. A black tachymeter scale runs around the outer edge of the dial, while Eddy Merckx’s signature appears above 6 o’clock.
For enhanced legibility, the hour and minute hands are filled with Super-LumiNova, ensuring visibility in low-light environments.
Stainless Steel Case With Vintage-Inspired Details
The Top Time B01 Eddy Merckx comes in a stainless steel case measuring 41 mm in diameter and 13.3mm in thickness, dimensions that offer a balanced presence on the wrist for a modern chronograph.

Protecting the dial is a sapphire crystal featuring anti-reflective coating on both sides. The watch also benefits from 100 metres of water resistance thanks to its screw-down caseback and gasket-sealed crown.
Vintage-inspired pushers complete the design and are responsible for operating the chronograph functions.
Manufacture Calibre B01 Inside
Visible through the sapphire exhibition caseback is the Breitling Manufacture Calibre B01, the brand’s in-house automatic chronograph movement.

The COSC-certified movement features a column-wheel architecture and vertical clutch system, a combination widely appreciated for delivering smooth chronograph operation and improved precision. It also provides an impressive power reserve of approximately 70 hours.
The sapphire caseback is engraved with the words “Eddy Merckx Tribute”, further reinforcing the connection to the cycling icon.
Limited To 525 Pieces
The limited production run of 525 pieces pays tribute to the 525 victories achieved by Eddy Merckx during his professional career.
Each watch is individually numbered and engraved with “One of 525” on the caseback, making every example part of this exclusive series.
Strap Options And Price
The Breitling Top Time B01 Eddy Merckx is available in two configurations.

The reference AB01762C1I1X1 comes fitted with a black perforated calfskin leather strap and is priced at € 7,400.
Those preferring a more integrated look can opt for the stainless steel mesh bracelet version, reference AB01762C1I1A1, which retails for € 7,800.
Read more here.
General Specifications:
Brand: Breitling
Model: Top Time B01 Eddy Merckx
Reference: AB01762C1I1X1 (leather strap), AB01762C1I1 (mesh bracelet)
Dial: Yellow
Case Material: Stainless steel
Case Dimensions: 41 mm diameter, 13.30 mm thickness, 50.36 mm
Crystal: Sapphire Glass
Case Back: Sapphire Glass
Water Resistance: 100 Meters
Strap: Perforated black calfskin leather strap with a folding clasp, steel Mesh bracelet
Caliber: Breitling B01
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph
Winding: Automatic
Jewels: 27
Frequency: 28,800 Vph
Power Reserve: 48 Hours
Chronometer Certified: COSC
Price: € 7,400 (on a leather strap), € 7,800 (on a steel bracelet)
Limited Edition: Yes, 525 pieces



