The Breitling A57350 is a watch that whispers elegance and functionality, a piece that embodies the enduring spirit of the Breitling Colt line. While not as widely discussed as some of its larger, more aggressively styled siblings, the A57350 holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate a more refined and versatile timepiece. Its understated design, combined with the robust engineering expected from Breitling, makes it a compelling option for both men and women seeking a reliable and stylish companion. This article delves deep into the specifics of the A57350, exploring its features, history, market value, and comparing it to other models within the Breitling Colt family. We will also touch upon the intricacies of owning, maintaining, and potentially investing in this classic Breitling.
Aesthetics and Key Features: The Essence of the A57350
The Breitling A57350 is defined by its classic proportions and meticulous attention to detail. The core specifications provide a foundation for its appeal:
* Case: The A57350 boasts a stainless steel case with a diameter of 33.5mm. This size is considered mid-size, making it suitable for a variety of wrist sizes and a more unisex appeal compared to larger Breitling models. The stainless steel construction ensures durability and resistance to corrosion, making it a practical choice for everyday wear.
* Crown: The crown, a crucial element for setting the time and date, features the iconic Breitling logo prominently displayed. This subtle branding adds a touch of sophistication and reinforces the watch's heritage.
* Bezel: The bezel is perhaps the most distinctive feature of the A57350. Crafted from stainless steel, it is a unidirectional rotating bezel, a standard feature for dive watches. This allows the wearer to track elapsed time, crucial for diving or other activities requiring precise timing. What sets this particular version apart is the presence of original Breitling factory-set diamonds. These diamonds are meticulously placed, adding a touch of luxury and elegance to the otherwise functional design. The unidirectional rotation ensures safety; if accidentally bumped, the bezel will only indicate a shorter elapsed time, preventing the diver from staying underwater longer than intended.
Beyond these key features, the A57350 boasts several other characteristics that contribute to its overall desirability:
* Dial: The dial typically features a clean and legible design with luminous hands and markers. The luminous material ensures readability in low-light conditions, further enhancing the watch's practicality. Dial colors vary, but common options include black, blue, and white, allowing for personal preference.
* Movement: The A57350 houses an automatic movement, specifically the Breitling Caliber 17. This movement is based on the ETA 2824-2, a reliable and widely respected Swiss movement known for its accuracy and robustness. The automatic winding mechanism means the watch is powered by the motion of the wearer's wrist, eliminating the need for manual winding (unless the watch has not been worn for an extended period).
* Crystal: The crystal protecting the dial is made of sapphire, a highly scratch-resistant material that ensures the dial remains clear and legible for years to come. Sapphire crystal is a hallmark of quality watchmaking and contributes significantly to the A57350's durability.
* Water Resistance: The A57350 typically offers a water resistance of 100 meters (10 ATM). This makes it suitable for swimming, showering, and other water activities, although it is not recommended for deep-sea diving.
* Bracelet/Strap: The A57350 is typically available with either a stainless steel bracelet or a leather strap. The stainless steel bracelet offers a more sporty and robust look, while the leather strap provides a more elegant and refined appearance.
The Breitling Colt Family: Understanding the A57350's Place
The Breitling A57350 belongs to the Colt family, a line of watches known for their durability, functionality, and sporty aesthetic. Originally designed for military use, the Colt collection has evolved over the years to appeal to a broader audience. Understanding the Colt family helps to contextualize the A57350 and its specific characteristics.
The Breitling Colt Automatic A17350 is perhaps the closest relative to the A57350. Both share the same movement, case material, and overall design aesthetic. The primary difference lies in the bezel; the A17350 typically features a more traditional bezel design without diamonds. The A17350 is often considered the standard automatic Colt model, while the A57350 offers a more luxurious variation with the diamond-set bezel.
The Breitling Colt Ocean Automatic A17350 is essentially the same watch as the A17350, but often marketed specifically for its water resistance and suitability for ocean-related activities. The "Ocean" designation highlights the watch's capabilities and target audience.
The Breitling Colt Oceane Automatic is generally used to describe Colt models designed specifically for women or those with smaller wrists. These models often feature smaller case sizes and more feminine styling. The A57350, with its 33.5mm case, could be considered a Colt Oceane model due to its size.breitling a57350