The Breitling Colt Chronograph A73350 stands as a testament to Breitling's history of producing reliable and functional timepieces, particularly those with roots in military applications. This model, a member of the Breitling Colt family, offers a robust build, clear legibility, and chronograph functionality, making it a versatile watch suitable for both everyday wear and more demanding activities. While often available on the pre-owned market for an attractive AUD price, the A73350 remains a sought-after model for its blend of practicality, heritage, and Breitling's renowned quality.
A Legacy Born from Military Needs:
The Breitling Colt series initially emerged in the 1980s, conceived as a rugged and dependable timepiece for the armed forces. This origin is readily apparent in the design of the A73350, which prioritizes functionality and readability above all else. The dial is typically uncluttered, featuring large, luminescent indexes for easy timekeeping in various lighting conditions. A crucial element derived from its military inspiration is the inclusion of a subset of military hours (13-24) on the dial, facilitating quick and unambiguous time reading, a critical feature for coordinated operations. This direct connection to the armed forces makes the Breitling Colt Chronograph A73350 a compelling choice for those who appreciate watches with a strong sense of history and purpose.
The Breitling Colt Chronograph A73350: A Detailed Examination
Let's delve into the specific characteristics that define the Breitling Colt Chronograph A73350:
* Design and Dial: The dial design of the A73350 is characterized by its clarity and legibility. Typically, it features a black, blue, or silver background. The large, luminous hour markers are a defining feature, providing excellent visibility in low-light conditions. The inclusion of the 24-hour military time scale is a practical touch that reinforces the watch's utilitarian roots. The chronograph subdials are usually well-placed and easy to read, contributing to the overall functionality of the watch. The Breitling logo and branding are prominently displayed, maintaining the brand's recognizable aesthetic. The hands, often sword-shaped and luminescent, further enhance readability.
* Case and Construction: The case of the A73350 is typically made of stainless steel, offering durability and resistance to corrosion. The size is generally around 41.5mm, a comfortable and versatile size for most wrists. The watch features a rotating bezel, often with a unidirectional mechanism, which can be used for timing events. The crystal is usually made of sapphire, known for its scratch resistance, protecting the dial from damage. The case back is solid and often features the Breitling logo and model information. The overall construction is robust and well-engineered, reflecting Breitling's commitment to quality.
* Movement: The Breitling Colt Chronograph A73350 is powered by a Breitling Caliber 73, which is a thermo-compensated SuperQuartz movement. This is a crucial detail that distinguishes it from some other Colt models. The SuperQuartz movement offers significantly greater accuracy than standard quartz movements, often within +/- 15 seconds per year. This accuracy is achieved through temperature compensation, which minimizes the effects of temperature fluctuations on the quartz crystal's oscillation frequency. The chronograph function is precise and reliable, allowing for accurate timing of events. The battery life is also typically quite long, reducing the need for frequent replacements.breitling colt chronograph a73350
* Chronograph Functionality: The A73350's chronograph function is a key feature, adding to its versatility and practicality. The chronograph subdials typically display elapsed seconds, minutes, and hours. The pushers, located on the side of the case, are used to start, stop, and reset the chronograph. The chronograph function can be used to time a variety of events, from sporting activities to cooking times. The precision and reliability of the chronograph are hallmarks of Breitling watches.
* Bracelet and Strap Options: The Breitling Colt Chronograph A73350 is typically available with a stainless steel bracelet or a leather strap. The stainless steel bracelet is known for its durability and comfort. The leather strap offers a more classic and refined look. The lug width is often 18mm, allowing for a variety of aftermarket strap options. The bracelet usually features a secure clasp with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental opening. The choice of bracelet or strap can significantly alter the overall look and feel of the watch.
* Water Resistance: The Breitling Colt Chronograph A73350 typically offers a water resistance of 200 meters (20 ATM), making it suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. The screw-down crown further enhances water resistance. However, it's crucial to ensure that the crown is properly tightened before exposing the watch to water. While it can handle recreational diving, it's generally not recommended for deep-sea diving.
Breitling Colt Chrono SQ: Decoding the Acronym
The term "Breitling Colt Chrono SQ" specifically refers to the Breitling Colt Chronograph equipped with a SuperQuartz movement. As mentioned earlier, the SuperQuartz movement is a significant upgrade over standard quartz movements, offering superior accuracy and temperature compensation. Therefore, when you see "SQ" in the context of a Breitling Colt Chronograph, you can be confident that you are looking at a model with enhanced precision.