After more releases in 2019 than we care to count, Breitling are kicking of 2020 with a bang and one of the coolest complications around in the new Navitimer B03 Chronograph Rattrapante 45.

A rattrapante – or split seconds – chronograph is one of the more unusual complications in watchmaking, designed to indicate two different elapsed times. Essentially, on the first press of the stop button the central chronograph seconds splits into two. One hand staying where it is, the other continues until another press, leading to two results.

Here however Breitling have gone above and beyond. The split-second has its own pusher in the 3 o’clock winding crown which, when used in conjunction with the standard chronograph pushers, allows it to be stopped and restarted as often as you want. This means you can effectively time multiple competitors at once.

If you look closely at the split-second hands, you’ll see that Breitling have separated the two parts of the logo that usually counterbalances a standard chronograph seconds. Their B logo is on one, the stylised anchor that usually accompanies it is on the other. When you use the split-seconds function, the two logos split, too. It’s a small touch, but an appreciated one.

Otherwise you’re looking as pure Navitimer goodness in a big, 45mm rose gold case paired with a handsome grey dial. It also has the collection’s signature slide rule and famous beaded bezel. All correct and accounted for.

Inside is the Breitling Manufacture Calibre B03, a COSC-certified chronometer with a 70-hour power reserve, a variation on the core movement throughout the Breitling collection.

Not nearly enough watchmakers attempt the Rattrapante, which is odd considering how many standard chronographs and even flybacks there are. That Breitling have made one is a good sign; that it’s this good-looking is fantastic.

Price & Specs:

Model Name: Breitling Navitimer B03 Chronograph Rattrapante 45

Ref: RB0311E61F1P1

Case/Dial: 45mm diameter x 15.73mm, red gold case, Stratos Gray dial

Water resistance: 30m (3 bar)

Movement: Calibre Breitling B03 (in-house), self-winding mechanical

Power Reserve: 70h

Frequency: 28,000 vph (4 Hz)

Strap: Black alligator leather with pin buckle

Price: £22,640

More details at Breitling’s website.