Swiss luxury watchmaker Breitling has unveiled the stunning Navitimer B09 Chronograph 41 Tribute to Miles Davis to mark the centennial of the jazz icon’s birth. Limited to 500 pieces, the timepiece pays homage to the mid-1960s Navitimer ref. 806 Mk5 worn by Davis, blending historical design cues with contemporary mechanical watchmaking.
Originally developed in 1952 as an aviator’s instrument, the Navitimer crossed over into popular culture during the 1960s, embraced by prominent figures across music and motorsport. Davis, renowned for reshaping modern jazz, adopted the ref. 806 Mk5 as a staple of his personal style. Breitling CEO Georges Kern noted that on Davis’ wrist, the chronograph became part of a broader cultural narrative, embodying the confidence and originality associated with the brand.
The tribute edition faithfully captures key elements of the vintage model. It features a 41 mm stainless-steel case housing a monochrome reverse-panda dial, era-appropriate “Twin Jet” logo, and vintage-inspired cream-colored Super-LumiNova accents. Staying true to the original pre-automatic era, the watch is powered by the hand-wound, COSC-certified Breitling Manufacture Caliber B09, visible through an engraved sapphire-crystal caseback. Buyers can select between a gradient brown calf-leather strap or a revived stainless-steel Air Racer bracelet, a vented design popularized in the 1980s by musician Serge Gainsbourg.
In tandem with the release, Breitling announced the upcoming launch of its inaugural Breitling Social Club in Williamsburg, New York, scheduled for late 2027. Owners of the 500 tribute timepieces will receive a two-year membership to the venue. Additionally, Breitling is offering an exclusive “Lifetime Club Member Set” limited to 50 numbered editions. Presented in a custom trumpet-style case referencing Davis’ seminal album Kind of Blue, the set includes three distinct Navitimer models in stainless steel, 18k yellow gold, and platinum, along with lifetime access to the club.
Leather band €8.900), Air Racer band (as on photo €9.450).
