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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Chronograph

Breitling Top Time Chronograph Ref. 810 Mk. II

Partially verified

This Breitling Top Time chronograph, identified as a Mark II variant of the reference 810, is a stainless steel wristwatch produced in 1969. The watch features a 38mm stainless steel case characterized by wide, straight lugs, differentiating it from the earlier monocoque Mark I design. It is powered by the manual-wind Venus 178 chronograph movement. The matte black dial is configured with three silver sub-dials and is marked with tritium luminous plots and hands. The watch is currently fitted with an era-correct JB Champion stainless steel bracelet. The auction description reports that the case retains its original pump-style pushers and a Breitling-signed crown, while the case back retains its factory markings despite some wear affecting the legibility of the serial number. The piece remains in functional condition, though its service history is not documented by the seller.

Front view of the Breitling Top Time ref. 810 showing the matte black dial, silver sub-dials, and stainless steel case with wide lugs.
Front view of the Breitling Top Time ref. 810 showing the matte black dial, silver sub-dials, and stainless steel case with wide lugs. — Craft & Tailored. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
craftandtailored.com
Category
Wristwatch · Chronograph
Maker / attribution
Breitling
Reference
810
Catalogue / lot identifier
BRT810-5
Source-reported date
1969
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
128XXXX

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Design

The watch is housed in a 38mm stainless steel case that is classified as the Mark II design variant for the reference 810. Unlike the earlier monocoque cases produced by EPSA, this version features a snap-on case back and is distinguished by broad, straight lugs. The auction description reports that the case retains its original factory dimensions and crisp lines, accompanied by signs of previous use.

The watch retains its original pump-style pushers and a signed Breitling crown. The case back is reported to retain its original factory markings; however, the vendor notes that the serial number has faded from use, though it remains legible. The watch is paired with a vintage JB Champion bracelet, which is described as era-correct.

Evidence for this section
  • “The ref. 810 was produced in several different case designs throughout its production”
  • “the Mk. II cases featured much thicker broad lugs”
  • “the serial number has faded from wear, but still remains fully legible”

Dial and Hands

The watch features a matte black dial contrasted by silver sub-dials. The dial is in original condition and includes tritium luminous plots that have developed a cream patina. The tritium hands are reported to match the dial's patina, and inspection under UV light showed no evidence of degradation to the luminous material.

The dial layout displays the 'Breitling Geneve' signature and 'Top Time' text. The sub-dials indicate minutes, hours, and continuous seconds. The vendor states the dial remains in flawless condition without notable signs of aging or damage.

Evidence for this section
  • “The original matte black dial with crisp silver sub-dials is in flawless condition”
  • “The tritium lume plots have taken on a subtle cream patina”
  • “The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly”

Movement and Functionality

This movement provides the chronograph functionality for the timepiece, featuring the three-register display visible on the dial.

According to the auction description, the watch is currently keeping time and functioning as intended. The vendor discloses that the movement's service history is unknown, though a servicing can be provided upon request.

Evidence for this section
  • “there was a commonality between the two different Breitling 810 cases, however, and that is the workhorse Venus 178 chronograph movement”
  • “The watch is keeping time and functioning perfectly, but the service history is unknown.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific production date range for the Mark II variant of the reference 810?
  • Can the case back serial number be cross-referenced with production records to confirm the 1969 date?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Breitling Top Time Chronograph Ref. 810 Mk. II
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
BrandBreitling“Brand Breitling”
Reference810“Model 810”
Date1969“1969 Breitling Top Time Chronograph "Mk. II" (Ref. 810) Matte Black Dial”
Case materialStainless Steel“Material Stainless Steel”
Case diameter38mm“robust 38mm case”
Serial number128XXXX“Serial 128XXXX”
MovementVenus 178“the workhorse Venus 178 chronograph movement”
BraceletJB Champion“Vintage JB Champion Bracelet”

Visible details

  • Matte black dial with three silver sub-dials
  • Wide, straight lugs on the stainless steel case
  • Breitling-signed crown and original pump-style pushers
  • Era-correct JB Champion bracelet with ladder-style links

Research qualifications

  • The serial number on the case back is partially faded from wear
  • The exact service history of the movement is unknown

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت مچی کرنوگراف Breitling Top Time Mk. II رفرنس 810

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record d0305da445

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Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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