Breitling Top Time Chronograph Ref. 810 Mk. II
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1969
Maker / issuer
BreitlingThis Breitling Top Time chronograph, identified as a Mark II variant of the reference 810, is a stainless steel wristwatch produced in 1969. The watch features a 38mm stainless steel case characterized by wide, straight lugs, differentiating it from the earlier monocoque Mark I design.
It is powered by the manual-wind Venus 178 chronograph movement. The matte black dial is configured with three silver sub-dials and is marked with tritium luminous plots and hands. The watch is currently fitted with an era-correct JB Champion stainless steel bracelet. The auction description reports that the case retains its original pump-style pushers and a Breitling-signed crown, while the case back retains its factory markings despite some wear affecting the legibility of the serial number.
The piece remains in functional condition, though its service history is not documented by the seller.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Date
- 1969
- Type
- Chronograph
- Brand
- Breitling
- Bracelet
- JB Champion
- Movement
- Venus 178
- Reference
- 810
- Case diameter
- 38mm
- Case material
- Stainless Steel
- Serial number
- 128XXXX
- Place recorded
- Switzerland
- Maker / attribution
- Breitling
Design
- Dial and Hands
- The watch features a matte black dial contrasted by silver sub-dials. The dial is in original condition and includes tritium luminous plots that have developed a cream patina. The tritium hands are reported to match the dial's patina, and inspection under UV light showed no evidence of degradation to the luminous material. The dial layout displays the 'Breitling Geneve' signature and 'Top Time' text. The sub-dials indicate minutes, hours, and continuous seconds. The vendor states the dial remains in flawless condition without notable signs of aging or damage.
- Case and Design
- The watch is housed in a 38mm stainless steel case that is classified as the Mark II design variant for the reference 810. Unlike the earlier monocoque cases produced by EPSA, this version features a snap-on case back and is distinguished by broad, straight lugs. The auction description reports that the case retains its original factory dimensions and crisp lines, accompanied by signs of previous use. The watch retains its original pump-style pushers and a signed Breitling crown. The case back is reported to retain its original factory markings; however, the vendor notes that the serial number has faded from use, though it remains legible. The watch is paired with a vintage JB Champion bracelet, which is described as era-correct.
- Visible features
- • Matte black dial with three silver sub-dials • Wide, straight lugs on the stainless steel case • Breitling-signed crown and original pump-style pushers • Era-correct JB Champion bracelet with ladder-style links
- Movement and Functionality
- This movement provides the chronograph functionality for the timepiece, featuring the three-register display visible on the dial. According to the auction description, the watch is currently keeping time and functioning as intended. The vendor discloses that the movement's service history is unknown, though a servicing can be provided upon request.
Identification
- Reference
- 810
- Serial number
- 128XXXX
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: The serial number on the case back is partially faded from wear
- Research required: The exact service history of the movement is unknown