Breitling Navitimer B01 42vsBreitling Superocean 42

Complete head-to-head comparison

Comparing the Breitling Navitimer B01 42 ($9k–$10k, 30m WR, 42mm) against the Breitling Superocean 42 ($4k–$5k, 300m WR, 42mm). The Breitling Superocean 42 is the more affordable option by $5k.

Price

Navitimer B01 42$9k–$10k
Superocean 42$4k–$5k

Water Resistance

Navitimer B01 4230m
Superocean 42300m

Score

Navitimer B01 428/10
Superocean 428/10

Repurchase

Navitimer B01 4280%
Superocean 4280%

Specifications Compared

Navitimer B01 42
Superocean 42
Case Diameter
Navitimer B01 42
42mm
Superocean 42
42mm
Case Thickness
Navitimer B01 42
14.25mm
Superocean 42
12.35mm
Lug Width
Navitimer B01 42
22mm
Superocean 42
20mm
Lug-to-Lug
Navitimer B01 42
50mm
Superocean 42
49mm
Movement
Navitimer B01 42
automatic
Superocean 42
automatic
Caliber
Navitimer B01 42
Breitling 01
Superocean 42
Breitling 17
Power Reserve
Navitimer B01 42
70h
Superocean 42
38h
Water Resistance
Navitimer B01 42
30m
Superocean 42
300m
Crystal
Navitimer B01 42
sapphire
Superocean 42
sapphire
Case Material
Navitimer B01 42
Stainless Steel
Superocean 42
Stainless Steel
Bracelet/Strap
Navitimer B01 42
Stainless Steel
Superocean 42
Ocean Classic rubber
Price (New)
Navitimer B01 42
$9k–$10k
Superocean 42
$4k–$5k
Price (Pre-owned)
Navitimer B01 42
$7k–$9k
Superocean 42
$3k–$4k
Style
Navitimer B01 42
sport, casual
Superocean 42
dive, sport

Pros & Cons

Breitling Navitimer B01 42

Pros

  • Slide rule bezel is a functioning calculator — nerdy and brilliant
  • In-house B01 chronograph is excellent and COSC-certified
  • Busy dial rewards attention and tells a story
  • Aviation heritage is authentic, not manufactured

Cons

  • Busy dial polarizes — some find it overwhelming to read
  • 14.25mm thick — does not slip under shirt cuffs easily
  • 30m WR makes it strictly a fair-weather watch

Breitling Superocean 42

Pros

  • One of the best-looking dive watches under $5,000
  • Redesigned case is sleek — a huge improvement over previous gen
  • Refined bracelet provides genuine all-day comfort
  • Strong lume and easy-grip bezel make it a real tool watch

Cons

  • Sellita-based movement feels basic for the price
  • Resale trails Tudor and Omega in the same range
  • Ceramic bezel action is slightly mushy vs competitors

Community Verdict

Too Close to Call

Breitling Superocean 42 is the value winner at $4k–$5k — over 50% cheaper than the Breitling Navitimer B01 42 ($9k–$10k). Choose Breitling Superocean 42 (300m WR) for diving; Breitling Navitimer B01 42 (30m) suits everyday wear.

Navitimer B01 42Community RatingSuperocean 42
50%50%
🗳️Community Vote
Loading...

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better: Breitling Navitimer B01 42 or Breitling Superocean 42?

Both are excellent watches with different strengths. The Breitling Navitimer B01 42 offers comparable sizing and costs more new. The Breitling Superocean 42 excels in water resistance. The best choice depends on your wrist size, budget, and preferred aesthetic.

What's the price difference?

The Breitling Navitimer B01 42 retails for $9k–$10k, while the Breitling Superocean 42 is priced at $4k–$5k. Pre-owned, expect $7k–$9k and $3k–$4k respectively. Actual secondary market prices vary based on condition and demand.

How do the case sizes compare?

The Breitling Navitimer B01 42 has a 42mm case diameter with 14.25mm thickness, while the Breitling Superocean 42 measures 42mm × 12.35mm. Both have lug-to-lug measurements of 50mm and 49mm respectively. Consider your wrist size and wear style when deciding.

Which has better water resistance?

The Breitling Navitimer B01 42 is water-resistant to 30m, while the Breitling Superocean 42 offers 300m. Both are suitable for swimming and snorkeling at their respective depths. For professional diving, verify the rating exceeds 300m and includes a screw-down crown.

How do the movements compare?

The Breitling Navitimer B01 42 uses a automatic Breitling 01 with 70 hours power reserve. The Breitling Superocean 42 features a automatic Breitling 17 with 38 hours power reserve. Both offer traditional mechanical craftsmanship.

Which holds value better?

Breitling and Breitling both command strong secondary markets. Pre-owned pricing shows an estimated resale value of $7k–$9k for the Navitimer B01 42 and $3k–$4k for the Superocean 42. Condition, service history, and box/papers significantly impact resale value for both models.

Related Comparisons

Related Guides

Explore Alternatives

Other watches worth considering in this category

Build Your Own Comparison

Pick any two watches from our database of 50

Start a New Comparison