Breitling Classic Avi Chronograph 42 Curtiss WarhawkvsHemel HFT20

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Measurements

Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Breitling Classic Avi Chronograph 42 Curtiss Warhawk at true scale

Classic Avi Chronograph 42 Curtiss Warhawk

Hemel HFT20 at true scale

HFT20

Diameter

42mm

42mm

Lug-to-Lug

n/a

49mm

Thickness

14.7mm

n/a

Water Resistance

100m

100m

Power Reserve

48h

n/a

MSRP

$6,050

$450

lowest

Movement

Breitling 23

Seiko VK64

Case

5 specs
Thickness
14.7mm
n/a
Lug-to-Lug
n/a
49mm
Lug Width
n/a
20mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel
Finish
Stainless steel
n/a

Crystal & Dial

1 specs
Dial Color
n/a
Black

Movement

6 specs
Caliber
Breitling 23
Seiko VK64
Type
Automatic
Meca-Quartz
Power Reserve
48h
0h
Hacking
Yes
No
Hand-winding
Yes
No
Complications
Chronograph
None

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$6,050
$450
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Reviews

Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.

Breitling Classic Avi Chronograph 42 Curtiss Warhawk

Owners widely praise the Breitling Classic Avi Chronograph 42 Curtiss Warhawk's 42mm size as a more wearable option compared to larger predecessors, with reviewers noting its COSC-certified Breitling Caliber 23 automatic movement and 100m water resistance. Some owners find the dial and overall aesthetic appealing, with one reviewer specifically mentioning the khaki green dial. However, the bracelet has been described as sharper than preferred and prone to desk diving marks, leading some to opt for a strap, and the 48-hour power reserve is shorter than some competitors. Owners are split on the dial's appeal, with one finding the green dial unappealing on the bracelet and another expressing concern about the 42mm size being too large for their wrist. On balance, owners and reviewers appreciate the Breitling Classic Avi Chronograph 42 Curtiss Warhawk for its improved wearability and classic styling, despite some reservations about the bracelet and power reserve.

Hemel HFT20

The Hemel HFT20 is praised for its engaging chronograph sweep and convenient grab-and-go wearability, with reviewers noting its legible matte black dial and sapphire crystal. Owners found the watch sweet at its $270 pre-order price, and the 42mm case wears well due to its 49mm lug-to-lug distance. The included leather strap is comfortable and well-made. One reviewer noted the chronograph minutes sub-dial does not precisely jump, and the 16mm thickness is slightly more than ideal for the Seiko VK64 meca-quartz movement. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Hemel HFT20 highly for its accessible take on vintage designs and enjoyable chronograph function at its price point.