The Aeromarine series is undoubtedly one of the most popular and best-selling series in Breitling’s entire portfolio. Of course, the Super Avenger deserves much of the credit for this, but the other “avengers” should not be underestimated either. Today we present to your attention a more specific and more instrumental representative of the line – the Breitling Avenger Bandit Titanium.
Until 2010, the name Skyland was also added to some Avenger versions, but after that Breitling decided to leave only Avenger in the name of this model. And in 2016, the brand launched a special series and, as it often does, gave it the modest name “Bandit”. In fact, with this series the manufacturer tried to introduce several key differences compared with the classic Avenger.
First, of course, the material used – in this case Grade 5 titanium, thanks to which the weight of the watch without the strap is reduced to impressive levels. Second, the fact that this model is not offered on a bracelet – only straps are used, and the best combination is precisely the one offered today: a textile “Military” strap with a titanium pin buckle. And last but not least is the design – here the classic design of the case, dial and famous bezel has been preserved as much as possible.
By itself, this watch can hardly be called small, because with its 45 mm case size, massive crown and chronograph pushers, ridged bezel and overall presence of an “instrument for professionals”, it certainly does not fit such a description.
The detail, finishing and overall impression are at Breitling’s usual high level – it is truly very masculine. It does not have the striking size and “look at me – I am a Breitling” presence of the Super Avenger or the for Bentley series, nor the recognisability of the Navitimer, but at the same time it is very iconic and very cool.
The watch features a deep dark grey dial colour, very suitable for the model, called “Anthracite”, with raised Arabic numeral markers. The hour dots and hands are covered with a thick layer of Super-LumiNova, which glows very brightly and for a long time.
For us, the bezel is one of the most masculine of all those offered on the market – honestly, we regret that Breitling decided to change its design a few years ago and in most of the “instrumental” series it is now very different. The only consolation is that in the Avenger and Super Avenger it has not been changed so drastically – unidirectional, with 120 clear and distinct clicks and a diver’s “pip” at 12 o’clock.
The crown is the other accent we love in this series – massive, ridged, with a large raised “B” of the brand, easy to use even with gloves. The guards surrounding it on both sides, as well as the massive chronograph pushers, only complete the overall impression.
The movement is Breitling Calibre 13 – the well-known “workhorse” Valjoux 7750, proven by its excellent performance, relatively easy maintenance and the absence of problems when it comes to finding parts if needed.
The 300 m water resistance, COSC-certified chronometer and solid, “instrumental” strap only reinforce the overall impression of this watch. Holding it in your hands, or even simply contemplating it, makes it very clear why Breitling chose precisely this slogan for its watches: “Instruments for Professionals”.
Another positive factor that creates interest in this watch is the countless personalisation possibilities it offers. Apart from this excellent strap, the watch looks unique both with various original leather and rubber straps, as well as with all kinds of designer ideas for non-original ones.
And to summarise – if you want an iconic Breitling representative, in excellent condition and full set, and you have not bought a Super Avenger because of its size – this offer is exactly for you!
