The Breitling Intruder. The name itself evokes images of powerful engines, sleek designs, and a robust, uncompromising spirit. This iconic chronograph, produced during a specific era in Breitling's history, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike. While Breitling no longer produces the Intruder, understanding its movement is key to appreciating its legacy and the enduring appeal of these sought-after timepieces. This article will explore the intricacies of the Breitling Intruder movement, examining its variations, notable features, and the reasons behind its continued desirability on the secondary market.
The Intruder's Place in Breitling's History:
Before delving into the specifics of the movement, it's crucial to understand the Intruder's context within Breitling's broader collection. Produced primarily during the 1990s, the Intruder represented a bold departure from some of Breitling's more traditional designs. It embraced a sportier, more aggressive aesthetic, characterized by its large, imposing case and its distinctly modern interpretation of the chronograph function. This design philosophy was reflected in the choice of movements used within the Intruder line, showcasing Breitling's commitment to robust and reliable performance.
The Heart of the Beast: Exploring the Intruder's Movements
The Breitling Intruder wasn't powered by a single, monolithic movement. Several variations existed, each offering a unique combination of features and complications. While precise model numbers and movement designations can be complex and vary depending on the specific configuration (e.g., the presence of a date function, different case materials), the core movements typically stemmed from ETA, a renowned Swiss movement manufacturer, often modified and enhanced by Breitling to meet their rigorous standards.
Several key variations are worth highlighting:
* ETA 2892-2 Based Movements: Many Breitling Intruder models utilized variations of the ETA 2892-2, a highly regarded automatic movement known for its accuracy and reliability. Breitling would often modify this base movement to incorporate the chronograph function, adding modules to handle the timing functions. These modifications often involved increased robustness and enhancements to the finishing, reflecting Breitling's dedication to quality. The resulting chronograph movements would offer features such as a central chronograph seconds hand, 30-minute and 12-hour counters, and often a date display.
* Variations and Complications: The complexity of the Intruder's movement varied depending on the specific model. Some models offered simpler chronograph functions, while others included additional features such as a date window, or in the case of the "Intruder Reveil," a highly sought-after alarm function. The presence of these complications naturally added to the complexity of the movement, requiring intricate engineering and precise assembly.
* Movement Decoration: While the base movements were sourced from ETA, Breitling consistently applied its own finishing touches. This often included Côtes de Genève decoration (Geneva stripes) on the movement plates and bridges, perlage (circular graining), and often blued screws, elevating the visual appeal of the movement and showcasing Breitling's commitment to craftsmanship. These finishing details are often highly valued by collectors, adding to the overall desirability of the watch.
Specific Intruder Models and Their Movements:
Let's now examine some specific models often sought after by collectors:
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