
Breitling
Navitimer B01 42
Ref. AB0138241C1P1
New Price
$9k–$10k
Pre-owned: $7k–$9k
Comparing the Breitling Navitimer B01 42 ($9k–$10k, 30m WR, 42mm) against the Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Original ($8k–$9k, 100m WR, 38mm) — specs, movement, community votes, and an expert verdict below. The Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Original is the more affordable option by $1k.
Our Verdict
Too Close to Call
Both the Breitling Navitimer B01 42 and Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Original are excellent choices — the winner depends on your priorities, budget, and style preference.
Complete head-to-head comparison

Breitling
Ref. AB0138241C1P1
New Price
$9k–$10k
Pre-owned: $7k–$9k

Zenith
Ref. 03.3200.3600/69.M3200
New Price
$8k–$9k
Pre-owned: $7k–$8k
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Visit Zenith Pillar Page →Both sit in a similar price range: Breitling Navitimer B01 42 at $9k–$10k vs Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Original at $8k–$9k — choose based on use case and style preference. Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Original edges ahead on water resistance: 100m vs 30m. Case size: Breitling Navitimer B01 42 at 42mm suits larger wrists; Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Original at 38mm is the more compact option.
Pros
Cons
Pros
Both are excellent watches with different strengths. The Breitling Navitimer B01 42 offers a larger case and costs more new. The Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Original excels in water resistance. The best choice depends on your wrist size, budget, and preferred aesthetic.
The Breitling Navitimer B01 42 retails for $9k–$10k, while the Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Original is priced at $8k–$9k. Pre-owned, expect $7k–$9k and $7k–$8k respectively. Actual secondary market prices vary based on condition and demand.
The Breitling Navitimer B01 42 has a 42mm case diameter with 14.25mm thickness, while the Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Original measures 38mm × 12.75mm. Both have lug-to-lug measurements of 50mm and 45mm respectively. Consider your wrist size and wear style when deciding.
The Breitling Navitimer B01 42 is water-resistant to 30m, while the Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Original offers 100m. 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.
The Breitling Navitimer B01 42 uses a automatic Breitling 01 with 70 hours power reserve. The Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Original features a automatic El Primero 3600 with 50 hours power reserve. Both offer traditional mechanical craftsmanship.
Breitling and Zenith both command strong secondary markets. Pre-owned pricing shows an estimated resale value of $7k–$9k for the Navitimer B01 42 and $7k–$8k for the El Primero Chronomaster Original. Condition, service history, and box/papers significantly impact resale value for both models.
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