The Breitling Navitimer. A name synonymous with aviation history, precision engineering, and a design that transcends fleeting trends. For decades, this iconic chronograph has graced the wrists of pilots, adventurers, and horological enthusiasts alike. While modern iterations often boast automatic movements, the allure of a manually wound Navitimer remains strong, offering a more intimate connection with the mechanical heart of the watch. This article delves into the intricacies of the manual-wind Navitimer, specifically addressing the common question surrounding crown operation and offering a broader exploration of this timeless classic.
My recent acquisition of a Navitimer A23322 sparked this inquiry. The instruction booklet, while comprehensive in its own right, left me slightly perplexed regarding the crown mechanism. Specifically, the question of whether it's a screw-down or push-down crown wasn't immediately apparent. This ambiguity, I suspect, is a common experience for new owners of manual-wind Navitimers, and this article aims to clarify this and other related aspects of ownership.
Understanding the Crown Mechanism: Screw-Down vs. Push-Down
Before we dive into the specifics of the A23322, let's clarify the difference between screw-down and push-down crowns. This distinction is crucial for understanding how to properly wind and set your Navitimer.
* Screw-down crown: A screw-down crown requires you to unscrew it before setting the time or winding the watch. This is a common feature in dive watches and other watches designed for water resistance. The screwing action seals the crown, enhancing water resistance.
* Push-down crown: A push-down crown, often found in simpler, less water-resistant watches, simply needs to be pulled out to different positions to perform various functions (time setting, winding). There's no screwing or unscrewing involved.
The Breitling Navitimer A23322, and many other manual-wind Navitimers, typically employ a push-down crown. This is important because incorrect handling of a screw-down crown (forcing it when it shouldn't be forced) can damage the crown or the movement. The instruction manual's ambiguity likely stems from the fact that, while not a screw-down crown in the traditional sense, the crown still requires a degree of careful manipulation for the different functions. The manual might describe the process in a way that unintentionally implies a screw-down mechanism.
Winding the Breitling Navitimer Manual Wind
With the understanding that the A23322 (and most likely your specific model, unless otherwise specified) uses a push-down crown, let's examine the winding process. This is a key element of owning a manual-wind watch, and it's crucial to understand it correctly to ensure the watch's longevity and accuracy.
1. Identifying the Crown: Locate the crown on the right-hand side of the watch case. It's usually slightly larger than the pushers (if your Navitimer has chronograph pushers).
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