Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph Review
The Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph is Breitling at its most refined: elegant, beautifully balanced, mechanically serious, and one of the strongest luxury chronographs available outside Rolex and Omega.
Quick verdict.
The Premier B01 Chronograph is arguably Breitling’s most complete modern watch. It combines the technical credibility of the in-house B01 movement with elegant proportions, excellent finishing, and a design that feels considerably more sophisticated than the brand’s aviation-focused models.
For buyers seeking a luxury chronograph that can move effortlessly between business, travel, and casual wear, the Premier deserves far more attention than it typically receives.
Key versions to consider.
Premier B01 Chronograph 42
The definitive Premier. Clean proportions, exceptional versatility, and the full benefit of Breitling’s flagship B01 movement make this the strongest all-round choice in the collection.
Premier B01 Chronograph Bentley
A discontinued collector favourite that combines the Premier’s elegant architecture with Bentley-inspired detailing. Increasingly sought after on the pre-owned market.
Premier B01 Chronograph 42 Pistachio
One of Breitling’s most successful modern dial executions. The distinctive green dial adds personality without compromising the Premier’s understated character.
Design and wearability.
The Premier feels fundamentally different from watches such as the Navitimer or Chronomat. Rather than emphasising utility, aviation, or sport, it focuses on proportion, balance, and refinement.
At 42mm the watch wears comfortably on most wrists thanks to its relatively slim profile and curved lugs. The polished case, applied markers, and restrained dial layout create a watch that feels equally appropriate with tailoring or casual clothing.
The result is a chronograph that projects confidence without demanding attention.
Movement and performance.
The Premier uses Breitling’s B01 automatic chronograph movement, widely regarded as one of the strongest modern chronograph calibres in the industry.
Performance is excellent, with a substantial power reserve, smooth chronograph operation, and a reputation for reliability that has matured significantly over the past decade.
While many luxury chronographs rely on outsourced movements, the B01 gives the Premier genuine mechanical substance to match its elegant appearance.
Which Premier should you buy?
For most buyers the standard Premier B01 Chronograph 42 is the obvious choice. It delivers everything that makes the collection attractive and offers the greatest long-term versatility.
Those seeking something more distinctive should consider the pistachio, salmon, or ice-blue dial variants, all of which have become particularly popular in recent years.
Pre-owned buyers should focus on condition, service history, and originality rather than chasing rare editions. The Premier’s appeal lies primarily in its design and movement quality rather than collectability.
Key specifications.
Pros and cons.
Pros
- Elegant and versatile design.
- Excellent in-house B01 movement.
- Works equally well formally or casually.
- Outstanding dial finishing and detail.
Cons
- Less recognisable than Navitimer or Chronomat.
- Limited collector hype compared with Rolex or Omega.
- Polished surfaces show wear easily.
- 42mm may still feel large on smaller wrists.
Alternatives to consider.
Omega Speedmaster ’57
A more vintage-inspired chronograph with strong historical appeal.
see alternative →
Zenith Chronomaster Original
A technically fascinating chronograph powered by the legendary El Primero movement.
see alternative →
TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph
A clean, motorsport-inspired alternative with excellent everyday versatility.
see alternative →Final verdict.
The Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph is one of the most underrated luxury chronographs on the market. It lacks the hype of Rolex and Omega, but compensates with excellent engineering, refined design, and exceptional versatility.
For buyers seeking a single luxury chronograph that can genuinely do everything, the Premier B01 is arguably the strongest watch in Breitling’s entire catalogue.