Technical Archive

Breitling
Navitimer AB0121A31C1A1— lug 20mm

Breitling Navitimer AB0121A31C1A1: 20mm strap. Alligator, box calf, shell cordovan and rubber, cut and stitched in Milano. Choose your leather.

Navitimer 1 B01 Chronograph 43 Stainless Steel / Airline Editions American Airlines / Mesh

Artisanal Note

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

Technical Specifications

Breitling AB0121A31C1A1
Lug Width
20 mm

The essential strap measurement.

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Reference

AB0121A31C1A1

Movement

Breitling caliber Caliber B01 Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds | Date | Chronograph, Column wheel | Chronometer

The Heritage

The Breitling Navitimer 1 B01 Chronograph 43 is a stainless steel model (ref. AB0121A31C1A1) continuing uninterrupted production since 1952. The 43mm case features a bidirectional bezel with circular logarithmic scale for pilot calculations, and a tri-compax dial with chronograph counters at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock. The in-house B01 movement is an automatic column-wheel chronograph certified COSC, with 28,800 vph and 70-hour power reserve. The 20mm lug width accommodates aftermarket straps designed for this case geometry.

FAQ

What is the lug width of the Breitling Navitimer AB0121A31C1A1?

The lug width of the Breitling Navitimer AB0121A31C1A1 is 20mm. This is the internal measurement between the two lugs of the 43mm stainless steel case, and it determines compatibility with any aftermarket strap. To verify it, use a calliper positioned internally between the lugs, in contact with the case.

What is the best strap for the Breitling Navitimer AB0121A31C1A1?

For the Navitimer AB0121A31C1A1 in stainless steel, an alligator strap with Mississippiensis grain offers the most balanced combination of elegance and technical coherence. Vegetable-tanned calfskin is a solid everyday alternative with excellent durability, while a ballistic nylon NATO strap pays homage to the watch's aeronautical heritage. A steel deployant clasp is recommended to preserve the shape of any leather strap over time.

How do you change the strap on the Breitling Navitimer AB0121A31C1A1?

To replace the strap on the Navitimer AB0121A31C1A1, you will need a fine-tipped spring bar tool. Compress the spring bar from inside the lug, remove the old strap, and insert the new one with the 20mm spring bar provided. The operation does not require professional tools, but it is advisable to work on a soft surface to avoid scratching the case.

Are there aftermarket straps compatible with the Breitling Navitimer AB0121A31C1A1?

Yes, any strap with a 20mm attachment is technically compatible with the Navitimer AB0121A31C1A1. Straps with curved ends are preferable to follow the rounded case profile. Milano Straps offers a curated selection of handcrafted 20mm straps available online, or made to measure by Casati Milano atelier with direct leather selection.

How long does a leather strap last on a Breitling Navitimer AB0121A31C1A1?

The lifespan of a leather strap depends on the material and care: a quality alligator strap, with daily use and proper maintenance (periodic conditioning, rotation between several straps), can last between 3 and 5 years while retaining its aesthetic and structural integrity. Shell cordovan, due to its dense fibrous structure, tends to last even longer. Using a deployant clasp instead of a traditional buckle significantly reduces stress at the fold point, extending the strap's life.