Montbrillant

The Breitling Montbrillant draws its name from the historic Montbrillant building in La Chaux-de-Fonds, where Breitling produced some of its most important chronographs in the early 20th century. This model channels that heritage with its classic slide rule bezel and multi-scale dial, echoing the design language of Breitling’s earliest aviation instruments. Collectors appreciate the Montbrillant for bridging vintage aesthetics with modern reliability, making it a compelling choice within Breitling’s lineup.

Reference numbers like A23351 and A41370 indicate key variations—most notably in movement and dial configuration. The A23351 houses the automatic Breitling caliber 23, based on the Valjoux 7753, offering a well-proven chronograph movement with date. The 43mm case delivers presence without overwhelming the wrist, and water resistance is typically 30 meters, reflecting its dressier intent rather than tool watch ambitions. Dial color, applied logo, and bracelet or strap choice drive price differences, with rarer dial variants and full sets commanding a premium.

When evaluating a Montbrillant, condition of the slide rule bezel and crispness of the dial printing are key, as these areas show wear first and affect value. Later examples may feature sapphire display backs and subtle logo updates, which can influence desirability for some buyers. The Montbrillant’s nuanced references and collectible dial variants make it important to match your preference with the correct reference, especially if seeking original box and papers for long-term value retention.