Galactic 41

Breitling Galactic 41 Watch

2010 sees a number of bold new Breitling watches but this Galactic 41 model is more demure - and probably a better choice for most men. After years of upping the ante both size wise and in terms of aggressive styling, the Galactic 41 collection (also coming in several smaller sizes for women) is a more approachable design that is very pure to Breitling DNA. There are a number of styles for this 41mm wide steel (also available in two-tone with steel and gold) watch. Along with the iconic pilot style steel bracelet (or leather strap), the watch features Breitling's updated diver style bezel - that became popular on their Chronomat B01 models from a few years ago.

The dials are extremely legible - more so that many other modern Breitling watches. This is hands to decorative, though uncluttered dials that have lume applied and polished applied hour markers, as well as large polished hands. Like many Breitling watches the case is all highly polishing for that signature glossy-all-over look. I like the various dial colors options (blue, gray, black, white, cream), and the use of the textured square in the middle of the dial - a design that Breitling has been playing around with as of late - that works well here. A very handsome and well put together watch - sized for people who are sick of "too large" Breitling watches. Another solid "daily wear" from the brand.

Inside the watch is Breitling's Calibre 49 automatic movement - that is a Swiss ETA 2896 automatic with a big date complication. I don't know of any other Breitling watches with big date complications actually. The movement has been COSC Chronometer certified as well. Check the gallery below for more examples of the new Galactic 41 watch collection. Not sure about price, going to be a few thousand dollars of course and available soon.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Gallery: Breitling Galactic 41 watches