Breitling Chronomat Blue Impulse A13048 Limited Edition 1000 Automatic Chronograph 39mm Satin Steel 1990s

Info

There are watches created for the market. And then there are watches created to celebrate a symbol.

The Breitling Chronomat Blue Impulse Limited Edition ref. A13048 unquestionably belongs to the latter. This special version was dedicated to the renowned aerobatic team of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, the “Blue Impulse”, ambassadors of precision, discipline, and technical excellence in the skies of Japan.

The Chronomat, already an icon of Breitling’s 1980s and 1990s production, finds in this edition one of its most fascinating and uncommon interpretations. It is not simply a professional chronograph, but a tribute to contemporary military aviation, distinguished by a strong identity compared to standard versions.

The dial immediately captures attention. The silver base with its radial finish creates a dynamic, almost three-dimensional light effect that changes character depending on the angle. The three contrasting blue sub-dials add depth and technical presence, ideally echoing the skies crossed by the Blue Impulse during their performances. At 3 o’clock, the official team logo is not just a decorative element, but the defining mark of a limited production created for a discerning audience.

Another key feature of this reference is its fully satin-brushed finish. Case, rider-tab bezel, and Pilot bracelet are entirely satin-finished, a choice that reinforces the instrument-oriented nature of the watch and clearly differentiates it from the more polished Chronomat versions. The result is a Chronomat that feels more technical, more coherent with its aviation roots, less jewel-like and more purpose-driven.

The rotating bezel with rider tabs at 15-30-45-60 minutes remains one of the defining characteristics of the Chronomat line, while the robust case construction reflects Breitling’s long-standing connection with professional aviation. The engraved caseback referencing the limited edition completes a watch that is not only about aesthetics, but about identity.

Produced in a limited run of 1,000 individually numbered pieces, this A13048 represents today one of the most interesting interpretations of the automatic Chronomat from the 1990s, deeply connected to real-world aviation and to Breitling’s professional heritage.

Case, Bracelet, Dial & Glass

General Overview: This Breitling Chronomat Blue Impulse ref. A13048, produced in the 1990s in a limited edition of 1,000 numbered pieces, presents today in excellent overall condition, with a level of preservation rarely found in a sporty chronograph of this era. The surfaces appear consistent and well-defined, with full, intact finishes that clearly indicate the absence of heavy or invasive polishing over time. The automatic Breitling B13 movement, based on the reliable ETA 7750 architecture, is in excellent mechanical condition. Timekeeping is regular, the chronograph functions operate correctly, and the watch does not require any technical intervention, making it ready to be worn immediately.

Case: The 39 mm satin-finished stainless steel case maintains balanced proportions and a strong presence on the wrist. The lugs are thick and well-defined, with edges still sharp and consistent with the original factory finish. The satin brushing is uniform across the entire surface, enhancing the technical character of the model and highlighting the design of the rider-tab bezel. The engravings on the caseback, including the limited edition numbering, remain crisp and fully legible. Once worn, the watch conveys a remarkable sense of integrity and freshness, visually very close to new.

Bracelet: The stainless steel Pilot bracelet, also fully satin-finished, plays a significant role in the overall aesthetic of the watch. The links display homogeneous surfaces with no noteworthy signs of wear, maintaining a solid and compact feel on the wrist. The consistency of the brushed finish between case and bracelet strengthens the technical identity of this edition, clearly distinguishing it from the more polished Chronomat variations.

Dial: The silver dial is the defining visual element of this limited series. Its radial finish creates a refined play of light that interacts beautifully with the three contrasting blue sub-dials, which remain deep and well-defined. The Blue Impulse logo at 3 o’clock is vivid and perfectly preserved. Applied indexes and hands are in excellent condition and show a light, natural warm aging of the luminous material, a detail that adds character without affecting legibility or aesthetic balance.

Crystal: The sapphire crystal is clear and free of scratches, offering a sharp and unobstructed view of the dial while confirming the overall excellent condition of the watch.

Accessories & Warranty

The watch is accompanied by a practical generic travel watch case. The original Breitling box and official warranty are not present.

For the buyer’s protection, we provide the O&D Vintage warranty card together with our certificate of authenticity and lawful provenance, documentation that accompanies each of our timepieces and confirms its authenticity.

This watch is covered by a 24-month O&D Vintage warranty starting from the date of purchase. The warranty applies to the movement and covers any mechanical defects not resulting from improper use or accidental damage, offering an additional level of security and peace of mind.