The Breitling Superocean collection has long been synonymous with robust, reliable, and stylish dive watches. The Superocean 46, in particular, represents a compelling blend of these qualities, offering a substantial presence on the wrist without sacrificing wearability. This in-depth review will explore the various facets of the Superocean 46, comparing it to other Breitling models like the Avenger Hurricane, Superocean Heritage, and the chronograph variants, ultimately assessing its place within the broader Breitling landscape. We'll also touch upon the differences between the automatic and chronograph versions, and consider its value proposition against the competition.
Design and Aesthetics:
The Superocean 46 immediately commands attention. Its 46mm stainless steel case is substantial but not overly bulky, ensuring a commanding presence without feeling cumbersome on the wrist. The unidirectional rotating bezel, a crucial feature for any dive watch, is sharply knurled for excellent grip, even with wet or gloved hands. This bezel, typically ceramic or steel depending on the specific model, is highly resistant to scratches and maintains its vibrant color over time.
The dial design is clean and legible, a hallmark of Breitling's approach to instrument watches. Large, luminous hour markers and hands ensure excellent readability even in low-light conditions. The date window, subtly integrated at 3 o'clock, doesn't detract from the overall aesthetic balance. Various dial colors are available, ranging from classic black and blue to more vibrant options, allowing for personalization to suit individual preferences. The Superocean 46 offers a range of bracelet and strap options, from robust stainless steel bracelets to comfortable rubber straps, further enhancing its versatility. The bracelet itself is typically a solid, well-constructed piece, offering a secure and comfortable fit.
Movement and Functionality:
The heart of the Superocean 46 is usually a Breitling Caliber 17 or a similar self-winding movement. This movement, based on a reliable ETA base, offers a robust performance and a power reserve typically exceeding 40 hours. While not a manufacture movement like the B12 found in the Breitling Avenger Hurricane (which we'll discuss later), it provides accurate and dependable timekeeping. The automatic winding mechanism ensures consistent power, eliminating the need for frequent manual winding. The smooth sweep of the seconds hand is a testament to the quality of the movement.
The chronograph versions of the Superocean 46 incorporate a sophisticated chronograph mechanism, allowing for precise timing of events. These models often feature a sub-dial layout similar to other Breitling chronographs, ensuring ease of use and readability. The accuracy and reliability of the chronograph function are consistent with Breitling's reputation for producing high-quality timepieces.
Comparison with other Breitling Models:
Let's compare the Superocean 46 to some other prominent Breitling models:
* Breitling Avenger Hurricane: The Avenger Hurricane, as mentioned, houses Breitling's in-house caliber B12 movement. This movement offers a 24-hour display, a feature absent in the standard Superocean 46. However, the Avenger Hurricane boasts a more rugged, military-inspired design, with a larger, more substantial case and a unique material construction (often employing Breitling's "Breitlight" material). The Avenger Hurricane is generally more expensive and less versatile than the Superocean 46. Its focus is on extreme durability and functionality, while the Superocean 46 strikes a better balance between ruggedness and everyday wearability.
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