Breitling Celebrates Artemis II with Limited Edition Navitimer Cosmonaute

The Artemis II mission, which concluded on April 10, 2024, marked a significant milestone as the first human mission to the Moon in over 50 years. The mission involved a 10-day lunar flyby, showcasing advancements in human space exploration. As part of this historic event, Breitling has launched a limited edition of its Navitimer Cosmonaute watch, commemorating the mission and its connection to space travel.

Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute Artemis II: The Race to Space

The Breitling Navitimer has a storied history in space exploration, originally developed in 1952 as a tool for aviators. Astronaut Scott Carpenter famously wore a customized version, the Cosmonaute, during his 1962 Mercury mission, making it the first Swiss wristwatch in space. This watch featured a 24-hour display to help astronauts distinguish day from night in the rapidly changing environment of space.

Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute Artemis II: The Race to SpaceThe Artemis II astronauts’ favourite Breitling now has a special mission editionMove over Omega – Breitling is championing its own space-flight history with an Artemis II edition

The new Navitimer Cosmonaute Artemis II edition features a striking meteorite dial in deep blue, a design choice that reflects the watch's cosmic heritage. The watch retains the signature 24-hour display and circular slide rule, essential for space navigation. It is powered by the manual-winding Breitling Manufacture Caliber B02 movement, which boasts a 66-hour power reserve. The watch is encased in stainless steel and is water-resistant up to 30 meters.

Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute Artemis II: The Race to SpaceMove over Omega – Breitling is championing its own space-flight history with an Artemis II edition

Breitling CEO Georges Kern emphasized the significance of the watch's design, stating, “The Cosmonaute was created for space. Bringing a material from the cosmos into its design reflects the same curiosity about the unknown that continues to drive space exploration today.” This statement underscores the brand's commitment to honoring its historical ties to space travel while celebrating modern achievements.

Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute Artemis II: The Race to Space

While the launch of the Navitimer Cosmonaute Artemis II has been well-received, some critics argue that the price point of CHF 9,900 (approximately $12,750) may be excessive for a watch, even one with such a unique heritage. They suggest that the market for luxury watches, particularly those linked to space, can sometimes prioritize branding over functionality.

Move over Omega – Breitling is championing its own space-flight history with an Artemis II edition

As the space exploration narrative continues to evolve, questions arise about Breitling's future involvement in the space industry. The success of the Artemis II mission may lead to further collaborations or innovations in timekeeping for space travel, potentially positioning Breitling as a key player in the intersection of luxury watches and aerospace technology.

The Artemis II astronauts’ favourite Breitling now has a special mission edition

• “People always wonder why astronauts wear so many watches… if you look at the Speedy X33 it is on GMT […] Breitling Cosmo is on MET, or mission elapsed time. I only used MET onboard and the 24 hour face was extremely helpful.” — Reid Wiseman, Mission Commander

The Artemis II astronauts’ favourite Breitling now has a special mission edition

• “The Cosmonaute was created for space,” — Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling

Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute Artemis II: The Race to Space

The limited edition Navitimer Cosmonaute Artemis II not only celebrates a pivotal moment in space exploration but also reinforces Breitling's legacy as a watchmaker intertwined with the history of human spaceflight.

The Artemis II astronauts’ favourite Breitling now has a special mission edition