The Breitling Emergency Watch has become synonymous with functionality, reliability, and safety in extreme environments. Renowned for their aviation and military timepieces, Breitling developed the Emergency series specifically for professionals and adventurers facing perilous missions.
This collection includes the Breitling Emergency I, Breitling Emergency Mission, and Breitling Emergency II, each representing a milestone in the evolution of distress beacon wristwatches. From the pioneering introduction of a built-in distress beacon to the incorporation of advanced features like a digital chronograph and rechargeable battery system, the Emergency series exemplifies Breitling’s dedication to innovation and providing a vital lifeline for those in need.
<>
History of the Breitling Emergency
The history of the Breitling Emergency models is rooted in the brand’s commitment to innovation and functionality in the face of extreme conditions. The journey began with the groundbreaking Breitling Emergency I, introduced in 1995. It was the first wristwatch to feature a built-in personal distress beacon, developed in collaboration with professional pilots and the French military.
Breitling developed the Emergency series in response to the specific needs and challenges faced by professionals and adventurers operating in extreme environments. The motivation behind creating the Emergency watches was to provide a reliable and effective means of distress signaling in dire situations.
Aviators, military personnel, and explorers often encounter hazardous conditions where traditional means of communication may be limited or unavailable. In such circumstances, having a dependable emergency beacon on their wrist becomes crucial for their safety and potential rescue. Recognizing this need, Breitling embarked on developing the Emergency series to equip these individuals with a tool that could potentially save lives.
With its dual-frequency transmitter, it could send distress signals on both the 121.5 MHz civil aviation frequency and the 406 MHz international frequency used by the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system. This innovation allowed precise location tracking and swift rescue operations.
Building upon the success of the Emergency I, Breitling introduced the upgraded Breitling Emergency Mission in 2001. In 2013, the Breitling Emergency II marked another milestone in the series.
Through continuous innovation and refinement, the Breitling Emergency series has evolved to meet the needs of professionals and adventurers facing perilous missions. These watches represent not only the pinnacle of functionality and safety but also the spirit of exploration and resilience.
<>
Breitling Emergency I
The Breitling Emergency I, introduced in 1995, was the first wristwatch to feature a built-in personal distress beacon. It was developed in collaboration with professional pilots and the French military. The purpose behind its creation was to provide a reliable and effective means of distress signaling for individuals in dire situations, particularly aviators and adventurers.
Dual-Frequency Transmitter: Distress Signaling on 121.5 MHz and 406 MHz
The Emergency I incorporated a dual-frequency transmitter that could send distress signals on the 121.5 MHz civil aviation frequency as well as the 406 MHz international frequency used by the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system. This technology allowed rescuers to precisely locate the wearer in case of an emergency.
Precise Location Tracking: Utilizing COSPAS-SARSAT Satellite System
By utilizing the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system, the Emergency I enabled precise location tracking of the wearer. This system allowed search and rescue teams to pinpoint the distress signal and quickly come to the aid of the individual in need. The Emergency I thus provided a crucial safety feature for adventurers and professionals working in hazardous environments.
<>
Breitling Emergency Mission
Upgraded Features and Functions: Introduction of Digital Chronograph
In 2001, Breitling introduced the Breitling Emergency Mission as an upgraded version of the Emergency I. The Emergency Mission retained the core features of its predecessor but introduced several improvements. The main enhancement was the addition of a digital chronograph with multiple functions. This chronograph offered various timekeeping and measurement capabilities, including countdown, second time zone, alarm, and full calendar.
Enhanced Battery Life: Improved Reliability for Extended Adventures
The Emergency Mission featured improved battery life, making it more reliable for extended adventures or critical situations. The extended battery life ensured that wearers could rely on the watch’s functionality for a longer duration, enhancing their safety and peace of mind during their expeditions or missions.
Sporty Aesthetic and Rugged Construction: Maintaining the Emergency Series’ Characteristics
The Breitling Emergency Mission maintained the sporty aesthetic and rugged construction that had become characteristic of the Emergency series. The watch was designed to withstand the demands of extreme environments and was built to be durable, ensuring that it could accompany professionals and adventurers in the most challenging conditions.
<>
Breitling Emergency II
Redesigned Microtransmitter Module: Improved Efficiency and Signal Transmission
The latest iteration of the series, the Breitling Emergency II, was unveiled in 2013. It showcased significant advancements in terms of technology and functionality. One of the key improvements was the integration of a redesigned microtransmitter module that was smaller and more efficient. This module ensured improved efficiency in distress signal transmission, enhancing the chances of successful rescue operations.
Rechargeable Battery System: Extended Autonomy and Reduced Maintenance
The Emergency II incorporated a rechargeable battery system, replacing the disposable battery of the previous models. This innovation extended the autonomy of the transmitter and reduced the need for regular battery changes. The rechargeable battery system provided wearers with a more convenient and reliable power source for their emergency distress beacon.
“SuperQuartz” Movement: Exceptional Precision in Extreme Conditions
The Breitling Emergency II introduced a distinctive feature known as the “SuperQuartz” movement. This thermocompensated quartz movement ensured exceptional precision, even in extreme temperature variations. The watch’s accuracy and reliability were crucial for professionals who relied on precise timekeeping and measurement in critical situations.
Versatile Functions: Military-Style Display, Countdown Timer, Alarm, Second Timezone, and Full Calendar
In addition to its distress beacon functionality, the Breitling Emergency II offered a range of versatile functions. These included a 24-hour military-style display, countdown timer, alarm, second time zone, and full calendar. The watch provided wearers with a comprehensive set of tools on their wrist, making it a reliable companion for various professional and adventurous endeavors.
<>
The Breitling Emergency Watch: Final Thoughts
The Breitling Emergency series stands as a testament to Breitling’s commitment to developing functional timepieces for professionals in extreme environments and emergency situations. From the pioneering Breitling Emergency I to the technologically advanced Breitling Emergency II, each iteration has built upon its predecessor, incorporating innovative features and enhancements.
With their built-in distress beacons, precise location tracking, and multifunctional capabilities, these watches provide wearers with enhanced safety, reliability, and performance when it matters most. Check out the Emergency watch and other Breitling timepieces at SwissWatchExpo.com.
<>
