The Breitling Kaliber 12.70, while not explicitly named as such in modern Breitling literature, represents a significant chapter in the brand's history. It's a crucial link between the storied past of independent watchmaking and Breitling's modern focus on high-performance chronographs. Understanding this movement requires delving into its origins, its intricacies, and its place within the broader context of Breitling's impressive catalogue of calibres, including the often-compared Breitling 17 caliber movement. This exploration will not only illuminate the specifics of the Kaliber 12.70 but also provide a broader appreciation for Breitling's commitment to horological excellence.
The heart of the Kaliber 12.70 lies in its base movement: the legendary Lemania 1873 and its close relative, the Lemania 1877. These manual-winding chronograph movements are revered by watch enthusiasts for their robustness, precision, and elegant design. Lemania, a now-defunct but historically significant Swiss movement manufacturer, produced some of the most sought-after chronograph calibres of the 20th century, and their influence on Breitling's heritage is undeniable. The adoption of the Lemania 1873/1877 by Breitling underscores the brand's dedication to sourcing high-quality components for its timepieces, even before the era of in-house movements became the industry standard.
The choice of a Lemania base movement for the Kaliber 12.70 highlights several key characteristics that Breitling valued:
* Robustness: Lemania movements were renowned for their durability and reliability, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily wear and even more demanding conditions. This was particularly important for Breitling, a brand strongly associated with aviation and professional use.
* Precision: The Lemania 1873/1877, while manual-wind, offered a level of precision that was competitive with many contemporary movements. The meticulous craftsmanship of Lemania ensured accurate timekeeping, a crucial aspect for any chronograph, especially those used in timing applications.
* Chronograph Functionality: The column-wheel chronograph mechanism employed in the Lemania base movements provided a smooth and precise start, stop, and reset functionality, essential for accurate timing measurements. The column-wheel, a complex and sophisticated component, is often considered a hallmark of high-quality chronograph movements.
* Manual Winding: While automatic movements were gaining popularity, the manual-winding nature of the Lemania 1873/1877 added a certain tactile elegance and a direct connection between the wearer and the mechanism. The ritual of winding the watch reinforces the appreciation for the mechanical artistry involved.
The Kaliber 12.70, based on this robust foundation, boasts a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. This is a respectable figure for a manual-wind chronograph, allowing for comfortable wear without the need for daily winding. The 42-hour power reserve represents a balance between the size and complexity of the movement and the practical needs of the wearer.
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