While Breitling is probably best known for aviation-related watches like the iconic Navitimer, the brand was actually founded in 1884, almost 20 years before the Wright brothers ever took their first flight. Leon Breitling's first watches were of the pocket variety, as was de rigueur of the time, before the brand transitioned into wristwatches in 1914—and released one of the first wrist-worn chronographs just a year later.

Fast-forward a few decades and, in 1964, Breitling released the Top Time. Designed to be the watch for the "next generation", it catered to the younger and more rebellious demographic of the 1960s, and at a lower price point than their more specialized timepieces.  

The Top-Time ref. 2000 was the first execution of the Top-Time and features the highly regarded manual winding Venus Cal. 188 with a running seconds counter at 9 o'clock and a 45-minute recorder at 3 o'clock. This particular ref. 2000 features an unpolished gold-plated case with classic pushers and a striking "reverse panda" dial—all the trimmings of a classic chronograph, but with the renegade attitude that could only come from the 60s.

SPECS

CASE & BRACELET

The stunning gold-plated case is believed to remain unpolished with strong factory dimensions and clean angles with light signs of use. The case retains its original gold-plated pump pushers and Breitling signed crown. The case back is in great condition as well, retaining all of its factory markings with light wear from use. The watch will come supplied on a two-piece handmade leather strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The "reverse panda" matte black dial with silver sub-dials and white outer tachymeter track is in fantastic condition, with practically zero signs of age or wear. The tritium lume plots have taken on a lovely creamy yellow coloration, remaining full and round under UV light inspection without degradation. The original tritium hands have aged a shade lighter than the dial and match the overall aesthetic of the watch, under UV light inspection the hands show no lume loss or degradation. 

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.