The Breitling A49350, a model often associated with the Windrider Cockpit series (though not explicitly named as such on all official documentation), represents a fascinating chapter in Breitling's rich history. While precise details about its specific production run and exact specifications can be elusive, its existence within the broader Windrider Cockpit lineage allows us to understand its place within the brand's impressive catalog and to appreciate its inherent qualities. This article will explore the A49350, examining its design, features, potential variations, and place within the market, comparing it to similar Breitling models like the Crosswind A44355 and the K44355, and finally attempting to ascertain its price and value in the current pre-owned market.
The Windrider Cockpit Series: A Legacy of Aviation Inspiration
Before delving into the specifics of the A49350, it’s crucial to understand its context within the Breitling Windrider Cockpit series. This collection, launched in the late 1990s and continuing through the early 2010s, celebrated Breitling's long-standing association with aviation. The Cockpit models, characterized by their robust construction, clear and legible dials, and purposeful design, were intended for pilots and aviation enthusiasts who demanded functionality and precision. The series aimed for a balance between classic Breitling aesthetics and contemporary design elements, reflecting the evolution of both aviation technology and watchmaking itself.
The design of the Windrider Cockpit models typically featured large, easily readable numerals and hands, often enhanced with luminous material for optimal visibility in low-light conditions. The cases were typically substantial, reflecting the need for durability in demanding environments. The use of high-quality materials, including stainless steel and sapphire crystal, guaranteed longevity and resistance to wear and tear. The movements were usually Breitling's own high-precision calibers, ensuring accurate timekeeping.
The A49350: Unraveling the Mystery
The Breitling A49350, as mentioned, is not explicitly labelled as a "Cockpit" model across all sources. However, its features and overall style strongly suggest its place within the Windrider family, specifically exhibiting traits consistent with the Cockpit sub-series. The lack of readily available detailed specifications online indicates that it might be a limited edition, a specific retailer-exclusive model, or a variant produced within a smaller production run during the transition period of the Windrider line. This ambiguity only adds to its intrigue for collectors.
Based on the information available, the A49350 likely shared many characteristics with other Windrider Cockpit models: a robust stainless steel case, a sapphire crystal, a high-quality automatic movement (possibly a Breitling Caliber 17 or a similar variant), and a dial layout optimized for readability. The dial itself, as noted, underwent a refinement around 2008-2009, which might explain the slight variations found between ostensibly similar models. These changes could involve subtle alterations to the indices, hands, or the overall layout, leading to minor differences between watches produced before and after this period.
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