The Cosmonaute was created over forty years ago after it was suggested by Lt Cmdr Scott Carpenter that Breitling made a 24-hour version of the original 12-hour Navitimer pilot’s watch. Carpenter, a US Navy Test Pilot, had worn the 12-hour version whilst flying in combat in the Korean War. After making the selection as an astronaut for the NASA Mercury program, recommended that a 24-hour version should be made.
In 1961 the 24-hr Navitimer was introduced and worn in space by Carpenter during the second orbital flight. It had the usual Navitimer model reference number 806, and like the 12-hour version had the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) wings logo on the dial.
Shortly after this (most likely during 1962) the 24-hour version was given a new model reference "809" and was named the ‘Navitimer Cosmonaute’. Confusingly many reference 809's had the word Navitimer on the dial but not Cosmonaute, but it is generally accepted amongst watch collectors that all 809's are Cosmonautes and all 806's are Navitimers.
This legendary watch has been valued at £800 - £1,200 and will feature in the Wrist & Pocket Watch auction to be held on 19 October at Fellows & Sons’ auction rooms in Augusta Street, Birmingham.
Ends
For more information please contact Mary Long on 0121 212 5500 or email mary@fellows.co.uk
Notes to Editors
• Pictures are available on request
• Fellows & Sons is one of the UK’s oldest auctioneers, and is based in the Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham, UK. It was established in 1876 and remains a family business.
• Catalogues are available online approximately two weeks before the auction and can be seen at: www.fellows.co.uk
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Established in 1876, Fellows & Sons is one of the United Kingdom's oldest and most respected firms of Auctioneers and Valuers. Our strength lies in the long term relationships we have established over the years with buyers at home and abroad, and with vendors throughout the United Kingdom.
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