Breitling Top Time B01 RacingvsNivada Grenchen Chronomaster 38mm Automatic Chronograph


lug2lug doesn't sell watches. Buy links open the brand's or seller's own site. Some links are affiliate links: lug2lug may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosures
Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Top Time B01 Racing

Chronomaster 38mm Automatic Chronograph
Diameter
38mm
38mm
Lug-to-Lug
n/a
48.5mm
Thickness
13.1mm
lowest
15.8mm
Water Resistance
100m
100m
Power Reserve
70h
n/a
MSRP
$8,050
$2,395
lowest
Movement
Breitling B01
Automatic
Case
5 specsCrystal & Dial
2 specsMovement
7 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
The Breitling Top Time B01 Racing is widely praised for its compact 38mm cushion case and excellent wearability, echoing the brand's 1960s designs. Owners appreciate the in-house B01 automatic movement and the dashboard-inspired dials, with one noting the blue dial's color-shifting properties. The watch features 100m water resistance and a 70-hour power reserve. Some reviewers suggest more brushed finishing on the case, as it currently has abundant polishing. Opinions on fit vary, with one owner recommending an in-person try-on due to wrist shape differences. Overall, owners rate the Breitling Top Time B01 Racing highly for its compact, retro-inspired design and in-house movement.
The in-house B01 movement and 100m water resistance are strong features. The price point of $8,050 is considered expensive compared to alternatives. Reviewers disagreed on the value proposition at this price.
Owners widely praise the Nivada Grenchen Chronomaster 38mm Automatic Chronograph for its perfect 38mm size and comfortable, vintage-inspired case design with downward-angling lugs. Reviewers highlight its faithful reissue quality, legible dial with tachymeter, and unique "baked" tropical dial that mimics patina without vintage fragility. One owner regrets the automatic caseback causes the watch to sit high on the wrist, while another found the construction felt light and poorly made. The 100m water resistance is noted as a slight limitation for a chronograph. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Nivada Grenchen Chronomaster 38mm Automatic Chronograph highly for its excellent vintage-inspired design and wearability at 38mm.
Similar watches
Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price, microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.








