Breitling Premier Automatic 40vsRolex 1908

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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 Premier Automatic 40 at true scale

Premier Automatic 40

Rolex 1908 at true scale

1908

Diameter

40mm

39mm

Thickness

11.4mm

n/a

Water Resistance

100m

highest

50m

Power Reserve

38h

67h

highest

MSRP

$5,600

lowest

$28,850

Movement

Breitling 37

7140

Case

6 specs
Diameter
40mm
39mm
Thickness
11.36mm
n/a
Lug Width
n/a
n/a
Material
Stainless Steel
18kt Yellow Gold
Finish
Stainless steel
18 kt yellow gold
Water Resistance
100m
50m

Crystal & Dial

3 specs
Crystal Shape
n/a
Flat
Dial Color
n/a
Black
Indices
n/a
Index

Movement

5 specs
Caliber
Breitling 37
7140
Beat Rate
0 vph
28,800 vph
Power Reserve
38h
67h
Jewels
0
38
Complications
None
Small Seconds

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$5,600
$28,850
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Reviews

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

Breitling Premier Automatic 40

The Breitling Premier Automatic 40 is widely regarded as an underrated timepiece, praised for its attractive anthracite dial and vintage styling. Owners consider it a favorite, appreciating its elegant presentation within a 40mm steel case. The Breitling Premier Automatic 40 is priced from $4,000 on a strap. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Breitling Premier Automatic 40 highly for its attractive dial and elegant vintage styling.

From video reviewers

The 40mm steel case with mid-century inspired engraving and short lugs provides a comfortable fit. The time-only movement adheres to a purist, vintage aesthetic. The watch is available on either a leather strap or the Navitimer bracelet.

Rolex 1908

Owners widely praise the Rolex 1908 for its slim, elegant 39mm case and attractive matte black dial, with reviewers highlighting it as Rolex's best dress watch in years. Some owners appreciate the display caseback and the feel of the deployment buckle. Owners are split on the value proposition, with many considering the Rolex 1908 overpriced at its $23,000 price point, with some noting similarities to the discontinued Cellini and questioning Rolex's identity as a dress watch brand. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Rolex 1908 highly for its refined dress watch aesthetics and slim profile, despite widespread concerns about its price.

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