New Release: Breitling Superocean ’57 Limited Edition II

If you missed your chance at the most recent Breitling Superocean ’57 Limited Edition, you now have a chance at a slightly different follow-up model. Significantly, proceeds will aid charities that support frontline healthcare workers in the battle against COVID-19.

Just over a month ago, we shared news of Breitling‘s latest capsule collection. The Superocean Heritage ’57 was announced during a video stream led by Georges Kern. While the watch could be considered as a somewhat niche offering, I threw my money behind it within a couple of hours of its release. After all, this watch recalls one of my all-time favorite vintage watches while adding some modern twists such as size and build quality. Several variants are available. Normal — well, capsule — editions come in black or blue with either stainless or two-tone cases. A new mesh bracelet is also part of the deal along with the leather strap.

The First Limited Edition

But Breitling decided to throw us a curveball with the Superocean ’57 release. A 250 piece limited edition was announced with a black rainbow dial. I wasn’t sure about this watch, but it sold out instantly. Maybe that’s not so surprising, but it surprised me. I know at least one buyer who mentioned that it looked like a heck of a lot of fun. And, honestly, with people spending serious amounts on rainbow Daytonas or Yacht-Masters, this seemed approachable.

The Superocean ’57 Limited Edition II

After this positive case study, Breitling moved very quickly to create a second limited-edition Superocean model called the — here we go — “Limited Edition II”. It’s very similar to the first model but comes in blue instead of black. And to satisfy a larger potential client base, 1,000 will be made. But the most important news surrounding this watch is its charitable tie-in. Breitling has identified charities in France, Italy, the UK, Japan, the USA, and Spain that aid frontline workers involved in the fight against COVID-19. A portion of the proceeds will go towards these charities. In total, Breitling will donate CHF 500,000. One watch will be auctioned on Charitybuzz and the winner will have a digital chat with renowned surfer (and Breitling buddy) Kelly Slater.

Details

As mentioned, the Superocean Limited Edition II follows the rest of the lineup in the series. This means we get a stainless steel watch that measures in at 42mm across the bezel. The underlying case is wonderfully smaller at 38mm. The lug-to-lug measurement comes in at 46mm.

I’m still excited about the divine 9.9mm height afforded by the use of a chronometer-certified ETA 2892 (Breitling cal. B10). A push/pull crown affords this model with water resistance down to 100 meters. Here again, Breitling offers a mesh bracelet (€4,750), gold-brown leather strap on butterfly clasp (€4,530), or gold-brown strap on pin buckle (€4,300).

Final Thoughts on the Superocean ’57 Limited Edition II

This is a tough time to sell anything unless it’s toilet paper, booze, or canned food. The fact that Breitling moved so quickly on the heels of its surprise hit in the first Superocean L.E. tells me that they don’t want to miss an opportunity. I get that, but what I really like is that they’re using this speed to donate money to worthwhile and timely causes. What’s more, I actually like this watch more than the last rainbow-themed piece. I think that the blue sunburst pattern on the dial blends better with all the colors and comes off a bit subtler. One thing is for sure now, though. This watch is no longer a gamble. It should sell very well and, thankfully, it helps support a great cause. Head to Breitling for ordering and further information.