Breitling Colt Automatic Ref. A17388
Dive / Tool Watch with Military Aviation Inspirations · Breitling SA, independent luxury Swiss watchmaker historically famous for high-precision chronographs and aviation instruments.
Period: Modern Luxury / Neo-Vintage (2010s)
Type
Dive / Tool Watch with Military Aviation Inspirations
Brand
Breitling SA, independent luxury Swiss watchmaker historically famous for high-precision chronographs and aviation instruments.
Movement
Breitling Caliber 17 (based on ETA 2824-2), automatic, 28,800 vph (4 Hz), approximately 38 hours power reserve, 25 jewels, COSC-certified chronometer.
Dimensions
Case diameter: 44 mm, Case thickness: 11.25 mm, Lug-to-lug distance: approx. 53 mm, Lug width: 22 mm.
Description
The Breitling Colt Automatic is a quintessential modern tool watch that marries robust utilitarian performance with sophisticated luxury finishing. Originally designed for military use, the Colt line prioritizes readability, durability, and absolute precision. Featuring a commanding 44mm stainless steel case, an immaculate white dial with distinct Arabic numerals, and Breitling's iconic rider-tab bezel, this timepiece projects an unapologetically bold wrist presence. Driven by a chronometer-certified automatic movement, it serves as a reliable companion for diving, aviation, and daily wear alike.
Key Features
Signature four rider-tab bezel, COSC chronometer certification, inner 24-hour military time track, prominent 44mm case architecture, and robust 200-meter water resistance.
Dial Description
Strap white dial with a fine sunburst or matte finish, large Arabic numerals for 12, 6, and 9, inner 24-hour military scale, luminous baton hour markers, luminous sword hands, date window at 3 o'clock with a contrasting red-tipped date pointer or standard frame, red 'COLT' text above 'CHRONOMETRE 200M/660FT'.
Case Material
Stainless steel (316L) with a combination of high-polish and satin-brushed finishing on the case and bezel.
Crystal Type
Cambered sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides, offering crystal-clear visibility with minimal reflections.
Bezel Details
Unidirectional ratcheted rotating bezel in stainless steel featuring the signature Breitling rider tabs at the 15, 30, 45, and 60-minute positions.
Crown & Pushers
Screw-down crown with two gaskets, featuring the Breitling 'B' logo, protected by integrated crown guards.
Bracelet or Strap
Stainless steel Breitling Professional bracelet with three-piece brushed links and a folding clasp secured with a safety flip-lock.
Caseback Details
Solid, screw-down stainless steel case back stamped with standard Breitling production details, reference numbers, and the traditional circular technical markings.
Movement Type
Breitling Caliber 17 (based on ETA 2824-2), automatic, 28,800 vph (4 Hz), approximately 38 hours power reserve, 25 jewels, COSC-certified chronometer.
Water Resistance
200 meters (660 feet / 20 ATM), suitable for professional marine activity, skin diving, and swimming, though not suitable for mixed-gas saturation diving without a helium escape valve.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made, manufactured in Grenchen and La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, utilizing a heavily modified and rigorously tested Swiss-engineered ETA-based movement.
Age Estimate
Circa 2014-2018 production era, belonging to the modern Colt collection redesign.
Cultural Significance
Represents the bridge between professional military instrumentation and luxury civilian sports watches, embodying the rugged aesthetic associated with modern aviation and marine adventure.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. The case shows minor hairline scuffs consistent with careful regular wear, particularly on the polished sides and bracelet clasp. The sapphire crystal appears clean and free of visible scratches. The dial and hands are pristine.
Value Estimate
Secondary market value ranges between $2,000 and $3,000 USD, heavily dependent on the presence of the original box, electronic warranty papers, and recent service history.
Care & Maintenance
Recommended complete overhaul and service every 5 to 7 years to ensure lubrication integrity. Water resistance pressure testing should be performed annually if used near or in water. Avoid strong magnetic fields.
Similar Watches
Omega Seamaster Diver 300M, Tag Heuer Aquaracer 300M, Tudor Black Bay 41, and Breitling Superocean.
Interesting Facts
The Colt collection originally started in the 1980s as a military-issued watch before being made available to the general public. Its ruggedness and affordability relative to other Breitling lines made it the ultimate entry point into Swiss luxury horology.