Breitling Chronomat Automatic 38 (U17356531L1P1)

The Breitling Chronomat Automatic U17356531L1P1 is an exceptional timepiece that blends the sporty identity of one of the Swiss brand’s most recognizable collections with a luxurious finish and sophisticated, jewelry-like details. This model stands out with its two-tone case—crafted from stainless steel and 18-karat rose gold—a green dial, and a bezel adorned with diamonds. Signature elements of the Super Chronomat line, such as the ceramic markers on the bezel and the distinctive crown, lend it a bold, technical aesthetic, while the green alligator leather strap adds an elegant touch. It is a watch that retains the dynamic spirit of a sports timepiece while presenting it in an exquisitely luxurious form..

The history of the Chronomat collection is closely linked to aviation and Breitling’s technical watchmaking. Its origins date back to 1941, when the brand introduced a model equipped with a slide rule, enabling the performance of mathematical and technical calculations. Over the following decades, the Chronomat evolved, forging ever-stronger ties to the world of aviation. A particularly significant milestone occurred in 1984, when Breitling unveiled a modern interpretation of the collection to mark the brand’s centenary. With its distinctive bezel featuring four raised rider tabs, a robust case, and a bold aesthetic, the Chronomat became a cornerstone of the manufacturer’s contemporary lineup. The Super Chronomat line represents a more striking and luxurious take on this design; it retains the original’s sporty DNA while enhancing it with precious materials, ceramic elements, and eye-catching embellishments.

The watch case has a diameter of 38 mm and is crafted from stainless steel, featuring elements made of 18-karat rose gold. This combination of materials creates an engaging contrast between the cool tone of the steel and the warm hue of the gold. The two-tone design lends the timepiece a more jewelry-like quality, while still retaining the robustness characteristic of Breitling’s sportier models. With a thickness of 11.88 mm, the 38 mm case maintains proportions well-suited for both elegant attire and everyday wear. Its compact dimensions ensure a comfortable fit on the wrist, offering a presence that is distinct yet understated. Brushed steel surfaces are paired with polished sections and gold accents, giving the case a variety of finishes typical of high-end timepieces.

The rotating bezel draws particular attention; its ring is crafted from 18-karat rose gold and adorned with lab-grown diamonds. Their substantial size lends the watch a striking, luminous quality, while simultaneously underscoring its luxurious take on a sporty design. The four signature elements on the bezel—known as “rider tabs”—are made of ceramic. This is one of the most recognizable design features of the Chronomat; originally intended to facilitate the use of the minute scale, it has since become a key component of the collection’s stylistic identity. The ceramic details are scratch-resistant and retain their appearance well, even after years of wear. The bezel rotates in one direction, allowing it to be used for tracking elapsed time.

The green dial is one of the most significant visual elements of this variant. Its deep hue creates an intriguing contrast with the red gold and diamonds, lending the watch a distinctive, more refined character. The applied hour markers and hands are designed for optimal legibility, with a luminescent coating that ensures the time can be read even in low-light conditions. The date display is positioned at six o’clock, preserving the symmetry and harmonious layout of the dial. The hour, minute, and second displays remain clear, all protected by a domed sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating on both sides. The use of sapphire ensures high scratch resistance, while the coating minimizes light reflections and enhances readability.

The watch is powered by the Breitling Caliber 17, an automatic movement. This Swiss-made mechanical caliber features a self-winding system and is built with 25 jewels. It operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) and offers a power reserve of approximately 38 hours. The movement drives the hour, minute, and second hands, as well as the date display—focusing on the functions most useful for everyday wear. The Caliber 17 holds a COSC chronometer certification, confirming that its precision has been verified by an independent Swiss institution. This certification is a cornerstone of the Breitling philosophy, as the brand has long placed a high premium on the accuracy and reliability of its movements. The automatic winding system harnesses the natural motion of the wearer’s wrist to store energy in the mainspring, ensuring that the watch does not require daily manual winding when worn regularly.

Water resistance up to 100 meters provides adequate protection during everyday use and allows you to use the watch also while swimming, provided that the seals are in proper condition and the manufacturer’s recommendations are followed. The screw-down crown and the solid construction of the case support the tightness of the entire system. It is worth noting that despite its luxurious character and the presence of diamonds, the model retains technical solutions typical of sports diving watches. This combination of functionality and decorative finish is one of the most interesting features of the Super Chronomat line.

The watch is fitted with a green alligator leather strap. Its color directly complements the dial, creating a cohesive overall composition. The natural texture of the leather enhances the model’s elegant character and offers an interesting alternative to a standard metal bracelet. The strap is finished with a steel folding clasp, which ensures a secure fit and makes putting on or taking off the watch both convenient and comfortable.

The Breitling Super Chronomat Automatic 38 (ref. U17356531L1P1) is designed for those seeking a timepiece that blends a sporting heritage with a distinctly luxurious aesthetic. The combination of steel and rose gold, a green dial, a diamond-set bezel, and a leather strap creates a bold composition that nonetheless maintains elegant proportions. From a collector’s perspective, it is particularly interesting to see the classic elements of the Chronomat paired with the signature features of the “Super” line, which lend the model a more exclusive character. This is a watch for a woman who appreciates Swiss mechanics, striking design, and jewelry-like details—while also expecting genuine functionality from a luxury timepiece.