Quick Summary
Breitling has unveiled a new chronograph dedicated to cycling legend, Eddy Merckx.
And even if you don't know who that is, it's a worthy option for most watch lovers.
If I asked you to think of a sporting legend, I'm willing to bet your answer probably wouldn't be a cyclist. While the sport has exploded in popularity over the last two decades, it's still far from a known quantity for most people.
Even if you did opt for a two-wheeled all-timer, chances are you wouldn't think of Eddy Merckx. But that's exactly who Breitling has honoured, with its latest limited edition chronograph.
It's a legacy worth celebrating. Merckx enjoys a record which includes a whopping 525 victories, 11 grand tours, 19 monument classics and three world championships. It even includes five Tour de France titles, and 96 days spent in the iconic yellow jersey, which is still a record.
The model features a 41mm stainless steel case, which also sits 13.3mm tall. That's water resistant up to 100m, which is still impressive for a chronograph.
Inside, you'll find a Caliber B01 movement, which features a 4Hz beat rate and around 70 hours of power reserve. It's also COSC-certified, meaning you'll enjoy superior accuracy, while employing a vertical clutch, column-wheel design.
The model is offered on either a black racing-themed leather strap, or a stainless steel mesh bracelet. Both options invoke a little bit of retro design, which should make them hot picks.
The model is limited to just 525 pieces, honouring the number of victories Merckx holds. Flip onto the case back and you'll see a "one of 525" engraving, along with "Eddy Merckx Tribute".
Priced at £6,200 (approx. €7,250 / US$8,250 / AU$11,980) on the leather strap and £6,600 (approx. €7,700 / US$8,800 / AU$12,750) on the bracelet, this feels like a solid option for a lot of people. You definitely don't have to be a fan to own one – kudos to the Breitling design team – but if you are, it's a perfect way to honour an impressive legacy.
