1969 Breitling Chronomatic 7651 “Yachting”

Introduced in 1969 as part of Breitling’s iconic "big-case" Chrono-Matic series, the Reference 7651 is driven by the landmark Caliber 11 movement. Developed collaboratively by Breitling, Heuer, Hamilton-Büren, and Dubois-Dépraz, this caliber stands as one of the world's first self-winding chronographs, instantly recognizable by its left-hand crown at 9 o'clock and date display at 6 o'clock.

This piece represents the rare, first execution of the Chrono-Matic Yachting model, designed specifically for regatta timing. The black dial features painted tritium baton markers, an asymmetrical oversized subdial arrangement, a 15-minute regatta countdown register, a 6-hour accumulator, and a distinctive inner 5-minute countdown bezel. Serial number analysis dates case production to September 1968, marking it as part of the very first production batch for Breitling’s oversized case profile.

The bold 47mm "big case" silhouette, paired with the distinctive asymmetrical regatta subdial layout and vibrant countdown accents, makes this reference one of the most visually striking and highly sought-after iterations of the vintage Chrono-Matic lineage.

Condition:

Overall the watch is in mint condition. 

The original black dial remains remarkably clean with unblemished subdials.  Original tritium hands and hour markers match evenly with a rich, uniform aged patina.  

The rotating bezel turns smoothly following a complete ultrasonic cleaning to clear historical dust and debris. The stainless steel case retains clean geometry with light surface scratching across the lugs and case sides consistent with standard wear. The case back engraving is clear with some visible tool marks from past service attempts.

The Caliber 11 was just serviced by our in-house watchmaker, and the automatic movement runs strongly at an amplitude of 267° with a timekeeping accuracy of +7 secondd per day. The chronograph functions start, stop, and reset crisply.

Specifications:

Model: Co-Pilot Yachting "Big Case", reference 7651

Serial Number: 12548XX

Year: 1968 (Case Production) / 1969 Release

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Case Diameter: 47 mm

Thickness: 14 mm

Lug Width: 22 mm

Caliber: Self-Winding Caliber 11 Automatic Chronograph

Crystal: Plexiglass

Bracelet/Strap: Black, high quality, calf leather strap. (Other options are available).