When it comes to pilot watches, Breguet has always been a big name among collectors. The Type XX, the brand’s signature pilot watch collection, has just received an update not long ago. While the new watches pay homage to their vintage ancestors, the Type XX 3803 stands out as an anniversary limited version.
Designed for the French Naval Airforce in the 1950s, the Type XX has its historic significance in military pilot watches. The pedigree of the line can hardly be matched by any other pilot watch collection. The ref 3803 was released in 2010 to mark the 100th anniversary of the French Aeronavale and it was made as a limited edition o 1000 pieces.
Sized at 39mm, it is a perfect watch for wrists of any sizes. As a military pilot watch, you may find it more elegant than subtle. That is also why Breguet pilot watches are special as the craftsmanship is unlikely to be found from other manufactures. The 3803 has a highly polished steel case featuring Breguet’s signature coined edge. What makes this ref stands out is actually its bezel which is in black lacquer with raised numerals. The craftsmanship on the bezel that has so many details is unmatched. The watch itself, from a distance, is quite recognizable as it is the only ref in Breguet’s pilot watches to have such a bezel. The shine of the whole piece is greatly enhanced when you compare it to the polished bezel of the 3800. The dial itself features luminova Arabic numerals which are very easy to read and the layout it very neat as well. The omission of the date function makes the dial more balanced than those with a date window. What makes the watch even more retro is the use of the onion crown which is not commonly seen in modern pieces.
Function wise, as always, it is a flyback chronograph. A flyback chrono allows you to time another event without resetting. The movement is a Breguet 581 automatic chrono movement. The watch comes with a padded calf strap in black and a deployant buckle.
Overall, the 3803 is a modern classic that will stand the test of time. The size, dial, case and its meticulously made bezel are some of the best you can find in a pilot watch. While hunting for a pilot military watch at the price range of 60-70k HKD, the 3803 is not a bad choice at all.