Technical Archive

Breitling
Chronomat 40 GMT A32398D11B1A1— lug 20mm

Breitling Chronomat 40 GMT A32398D11B1A1: 20mm strap. Alligator, box calf, shell cordovan and rubber, cut and stitched in Milano. Choose your leather.

Breitling Chronomat Automatic GMT 40 NFL New Orleans Saints Edition

Artisanal Note

"This model requires a precise 20mm lug width to preserve the original sartorial balance."

Technical Specifications

Breitling A32398D11B1A1
Lug Width
20 mm

The essential strap measurement.

Browse 20mm straps →
Reference

A32398D11B1A1

Movement

Breitling caliber Caliber 32 Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Additional 24 Hour Hand (adjustable) | Date

The Heritage

The Chronomat 40 GMT features the Breitling 32 caliber with hour, minute, second, adjustable GMT hand and date functions. The case has a diameter of 40mm with 20mm lug width. The movement offers the display of a second time zone through the independently adjustable 24-hour hand.

FAQ

What is the lug width of the Breitling Chronomat 40 GMT A32398D11B1A1?

The lug width of the Breitling Chronomat 40 GMT (ref. A32398D11B1A1) is 20mm. This measurement refers to the internal distance between the case lugs — the point at which the strap attaches. This is the specification required when selecting any aftermarket strap compatible with this reference.

What is the best strap for the Breitling Chronomat 40 GMT?

The ideal choice depends on intended use. For formal occasions, an alligator strap with a vegetable-tanned, mat grain finish complements the stainless steel case without overpowering the wrist. For sport or travel, vulcanised rubber or ballistic nylon NATO straps offer durability and comfort. Box-calf leather provides the most versatile solution, equally suited to daily wear and business settings.

How do you change the strap on a Breitling Chronomat 40 GMT?

Replacing the strap requires a 20mm spring bar and a bifurcated springbar tool. Insert the tool between the lug and the strap end, compress the spring bar on both sides, and slide the strap free. The operation takes approximately two minutes and does not require any movement servicing. It is advisable to work on a soft surface to prevent scratching the case.

Are there aftermarket straps compatible with the Breitling Chronomat 40 GMT A32398D11B1A1?

Yes. Any strap with a 20mm attachment is technically compatible with ref. A32398D11B1A1, provided the spring bars are standard and the bar length matches the lug width. Milano Straps offers a curated selection of handcrafted 20mm straps, with options to customise length, thickness, colour, and buckle type.

How long does a leather strap last on a Breitling Chronomat 40 GMT?

The lifespan of a leather strap depends on the quality of the tanning, leather thickness, and frequency of use. A high-grade vegetable-tanned alligator strap, worn regularly but not in sporting conditions, typically lasts between three and five years before significant wear appears at the lug attachment points. Box-calf leather, being more porous, benefits from periodic conditioning with a neutral cream. Prolonged exposure to perspiration and water will noticeably shorten the life of any leather strap.