A Vintage 1960s, Breitling Top Time Mark 1 'Long Playing' Reverse Panda Chronograph in Remarkable Condition with Black Dial & Three Silver Recessed Subdials and Venus 178 Caliber Movement.

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The Breitling reference 810 Top Time 'Long Playing'(referring to the 12-hour sub-dial at 6 o'clock and bigger power reserve/mainspring, perfectly suited to timing events of longer durations), was introduced in 1964 bringing a “simple, sporty” design to the market. 

One of the most endearing aspects of this watch is its size, at 38mm diameter, the 810s were larger than most counterparts from other brands at that time, namely the Heuer Carrera which weighs in at just 36mm in comparison. The lug width is also substantial at 21mm which adds some real aesthetic weight to the Top Time and makes for a thoroughly modern-looking watch despite an age of over 50 years!

The Breitling Top Time was one of the most overlooked yet highly significant watches to emerge from the 1960s. Most notably, this Ref. 810 ‘Long Playing’ Top Time offered an even more functional display than previous models through its inclusion of a third subdial. They are now becoming more popular and collectors are appreciating them more, especially since the re-launch by Breitling of their Heritage Range of models which includes the Top Time.

What’s On Offer 

A textbook racing chronograph, with its typical three-register layout and printed outer tachymeter scale, this example is in remarkable condition with a beautifully preserved jet black dial and synonymous silver recessed subdials. The white pencil hands and lume plots on the hour add depth to the classic sporting aesthetic of this Mk. 1, and the substantial proportions make for a really modern wearing watch and this example is in particularly fantastic condition.

The detail that makes the Breitling 810 Top Time, and the Mark 1, in particular, is its slimmer and pointed hands and also slimmer painted hour markers amongst other nuances!

The lugs on this Mark 1 are thinner and more curved so flow smoothly from the case as opposed to the chunkier lugged case (which you can also see listed on our site). The softer lug lines run right up to the all stainless steel case. 

The case and lugs look great, as do the crown and pushers which also of course add a meaty dimension to the watch as a whole. It's a classic model reference with subtle nods to the 60s and the trailblazing youth born of that decade. 

Additional information

Made from

Case: Stainless Steel 

Dial: Black Reverse Panda 

Crystal: Plexiglass

Bracelet: Leather with Pin Buckle

Technical specifications

Winding: Manual

Movement Type: Mechanical

Caliber: Venus 178

Jewels: 17

Waterproof: N/A

Power reserve: 52hrs

Purchase details

Condition: Excellent - 9/10

Model Reference: 810 - Mark 1

Date of issue: c.1960s

Guarantee: 12 Months by VWS

Dimensions

Width (without crown): 38mm

Lug width: 21mm

Lug height: (lug to lug) 45mm

Wrist size: Adjustable