Breitlings Dark SuperOcean Automatic 44 UK Limited Edition

January 15, 2018

Hot off the heels of the stealthy Chronomat from February, Breitling brings another muted-tone beauty for March. The latest exclusive limited edition for the UK market is the SuperOcean Automatic 44. Like the aforementioned Chronomat, Breitling pairs this SuperOcean s black dial with an anthracite hue. However, instead of chronograph counters, the SuperOcean features lacquered anthracite on the inner 60-minute scale. Juxtaposing the vibrant dials of SuperOceans latest generation, the new 500-piece limited edition cuts a contemporary look. You could say the new model is more boardroom than beach but still carries that surf-and-suntan spirit.In the main stainless steel collection, the white minute scale/rehaut takes up a prominent portion of the dials visual space. The separation of sections is even more vivid when contrasting with the central dial color. Yet the striking dial design is more restrained with the button-up color combo of the black dial and ceramic bezel against the oversized anthracite rehaut. Breitling took a leap of faith with its latest-generation SuperOcean. With a plethora of Submariner-esque dive watches pervading the market, Breitling looked deep into its past to create a fresh take on the genre.Breitling SuperOcean Automatic 44Mike already covered the details of the new SuperOceans design philosophy. But principally, the Breitling ref. 2005 Mk2 SuperOcean serves as the primary source of inspiration. The oversized, blocky indices alongside the short, stubby hands were crucial features of the diving chronograph. While the new SuperOcean collection does not include a chronograph, the bold indications carry over from the 1970s model. Specifically, the ref. 2005 Mk2 s Slow-Motion chronograph minute hand with a unique luminous square now serves as the primary minute hand.This chunky design can seem quite juvenile at first, but the proportions work nicely in person. And despite the expansive rehaut, theres plenty of dial space to carry the square and rectangular applied indices. While it did take seeing it in person to appreciate the SuperOceans new direction, this UK limited edition softens the blow with its more monochrome aesthetic. However, the dial of this model doesnt go into full stealth mode like that of Februarys Chronomat. In this version, the SuperOcean text and tip of the seconds hand are red, while the applied stylized Breitling B logo is gold. Specs and pricingWhile you may find this black and anthracite SuperOcean suits up for the morning commute, its still capable of life on the waves. The 44 50.5 12.6mm stainless steel case comes complete with a screw-down crown, 300m depth rating, and solid steel back, making it a strong ocean-exploring wrist companion. The signature Breitling slanted-link bracelet with polished center links and brushed outer links persists in the new model. You can also choose the black rubber strap with a push-button deployant clasp in stainless steel. The Breitling 17 (Sellita SW200-based) time-only caliber powers the watch, providing 38 hours of power reserve.On the rubber strap, the watch is $4,150, while on the bracelet, it costs $4,300. Regardless of which you choose, the watch itself is limited to 500 pieces exclusively for the UK. You can find more information on the Breitling website here.Watch specifications Brand Breitling Model SuperOcean Automatic 44Reference A173765A1B1A1Dial Black lacquered dial with anthracite lacquered rehaut and applied indicesCase Material Stainless steelCase Dimensions 44mm (diameter) 50.5mm (lug-to-lug) 12.6mm (thickness)Crystal Cambered sapphire, glareproofed on both sidesCase Back Stainless steel, screw-in Movement Breitling 17: Sellita SW200-1 base, automatic with hand winding, 28,800vph frequency, 38-hour power, 26 jewelsWater Resistance 300mStrap Stainless steel three-row slanted-link bracelet (22/18mm) or rubber strap with push-button deployant claspFunctions Time (hours, minutes, small seconds) and 60-minute dive bezelPrice $4,300 (bracelet) / $4,150 (strap)Warranty Two yearsSpecial Note(s) UK exclusive, limited to 500 pieces