Legends In Motion: Breitling Celebrates Coppi & Bartali

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Breitling revisits the golden era of cycling with two bold interpretations of its Top Time B01 chronograph, designed in honor of Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali — legendary athletes whose achievements shaped the sport. Each limited to 750 pieces, these chronographs are powered by Breitling’s in-house caliber and visually distinct with dials that reference each cyclist’s iconic team colors.

 

A Case Built for Sport

Both editions share a 41mm stainless steel case with a length of 50.36mm lug-to-lug and a thickness of 13.3mm. The proportions strike a balance between classic and contemporary, making the watch suitable for daily wear and active use. The polished case integrates “mushroom” chronograph pushers — a vintage-inspired touch that enhances ergonomics.

 

B01 Caliber Inside

Inside the Top Time B01 models ticks Breitling’s Manufacture Caliber 01, a COSC-certified automatic chronograph movement known for its precision and robustness. Beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), the B01 offers a column wheel and vertical clutch system — features typically found in high-end chronographs — delivering smooth and accurate chronograph operation. The movement provides an impressive 70-hour power reserve and is visible through a sapphire exhibition case back, with a custom engraved ring marking each edition’s tribute and limited number.

 

Fausto Coppi Edition

The Top Time B01 Fausto Coppi (ref. AB01768A1A1A1 / AB01768A1A1X1) draws from the signature celeste turquoise shade associated with Coppi’s Bianchi racing team. The watch features a white dial with contrasting turquoise sub-dials at 3 and 9 o’clock. These register the 30-minute chronograph counter and running seconds, respectively, while a date aperture sits subtly at 6 o’clock.

A vibrant orange central chronograph seconds hand adds dynamic contrast, shaped with a stylized lightning bolt — emphasizing speed and energy. The tachymeter scale encircling the dial is inscribed with “Il Campionissimo,” Coppi’s enduring nickname.

 

Gino Bartali Edition

The Top Time B01 Gino Bartali (ref. AB01767A1C1A1 / AB01767A1C1X1) is finished in deep blue with yellow accents — a nod to the Bartali-Ursus team colors. Like its sibling, the layout includes dual sub-dials and a discreet date at 6. On this version, the tachymeter scale reads “L’Intramontabile,” a title meaning “The Timeless,” an homage to Bartali’s enduring legacy.

Both dials feature brushed textures within the sub-dials and faceted hour markers filled with Super-LumiNova for optimal legibility in low light.

 

Straps and Variants

Buyers have a choice of a perforated brown calfskin racing strap for a vintage look or a Milanese stainless steel mesh bracelet that amplifies the retro-modern aesthetic. Pricing is set at €7,250 for the leather option and €7,650 for the steel bracelet variant.

 

A Heritage in Motion

Rather than retelling a story, these Top Time B01 chronographs allow wearers to carry a piece of cycling history on their wrists. With modern engineering, colorful design codes, and reliable chronograph performance, the Coppi and Bartali editions combine mechanical excellence with a deep respect for sporting heritage.

 

Read more here.

 

General Specifications:

 

Brand: Breitling

Model: Top Time B01 Coppi & Bartali Editions

References: AB01767A1C1A1 (Gino Bartali on a steel bracelet), AB01767A1C1X1 (Gino Bartali on a leather strap), AB01768A1A1A1 (Fausto Coppi on a steel bracelet), AB01768A1A1X1 (Fausto Coppi on a leather strap)

 

Dial: Blue with white accents (Gino Bartali), white with turquoise accents (Fausto Coppi)

Case Material: Stainless steel

Case Dimensions: 41 mm Diameter, 13.30 mm thickness, 50.36 mm lug-to-lug

Crystal: Sapphire Glass

Case Back: Sapphire Glass

Water Resistance: 100 Meters

Strap: Blue/turquoise calfskin leather strap with a folding clasp, mesh steel bracelet with a folding clasp

 

Calibre: B01

Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph

Winding: Automatic

Jewels: 34

Frequency: 4 Hz (28,800 Vph)

Power Reserve: 70 Hours

Chronometer Certified: Yes, by COSC

 

Price: € 7,250 (on a leather strap), € 7,650 (on a steel bracelet)

Availability: Now

Limited Edition: Yes, 750 pieces each