Founded in 1884, Breitling is a leading Swiss watchmaker. The innovative company defined the modern chronograph and pioneered the navigational tool watch. Today, it’s still breaking new ground as a casual, inclusive, and sustainable luxury brand with more than 250 industrial loft-inspired retail locations around the world. Breitling’s collections center around air, land, and sea pursuits, all captured in the brand’s unmistakable modern-retro style. The exceptional quality of every watch movement is confirmed by its status as a COSC-certified chronometer, and the brand remains one of only a handful of independent watchmakers to produce its own manufacture calibers. Combining classic watchmaking with the latest innovations, Breitling is both a company with history and one that’s ahead of its time.

The History of Innovation Behind Breitling Watches

Nearly two decades after Léon Breitling's pioneering pocket watch, his grandson Willy Breitling left his own legacy on the brand. In 1934, Willy introduced a groundbreaking innovation—a second chronograph pusher placed below the crown, establishing the foundation of the modern chronograph as we know it today. Breitling’s reputation as a trusted aviation partner also grew during this era, with the Royal British Air Force equipping its aircraft with Breitling onboard clocks.

Renowned as one of the world’s premier wrist chronograph manufacturers, Breitling remained a family-owned company until Willy Breitling’s passing. The brand was then acquired by watchmaker and entrepreneur Ernest Schneider. Today, his son Théodore Schneider retains part ownership, continuing the brand’s tradition of precision and performance.

In the modern era, Breitling has expanded far beyond its aviation roots. Under the leadership of CEO Georges Kern since 2017, the brand has redefined its identity to appeal to a broader audience. With a focus on inclusivity and versatility, Breitling now categorizes its collections into Land, Air, Sea, and Professional lines—amplified by its global #SquadOnAMission campaign and diverse brand ambassadors.