The Laings Journal
This incredibly innovative timepiece from Breitling, is equipped with a dual frequency transmitter (compliant with The Cospas-Sarsant Satellite Alert System) not only issues the search and rescue missions with alerts but assist in guiding them to a location, whether it be on land, at sea or in the air.
Developed in conjunction with major scientific institutes, the Emergency is distinguished by numerous microelectronic and microtechnical innovations, including a revolutionary rechargeable battery, a miniaturized dual frequency transmitter and an unprecedented integrated antenna system – three features specifically developed for this model.
In 1995, Breitling struck a decisive blow in launching the first wristwatch with a built-in emergency microtransmitter. Operating on the 121.5 MHz international air distress frequency, this first Emergency was designed to enable accurate homing in on pilots or passengers following a plane crash. It was designed for constant wear on the wrist and thus as a complement to the standard onboard aircraft equipment.
The first Emergency has been tested and worn in daily use by the finest aviation professionals and the world’s greatest aeronautical teams. It has proven its worth in many search and rescue exercises and has become synonymous with safety and reliability for pilots around the globe. Around 40,000 such watches have been sold, and these exceptional instruments for locating and rescuing people in danger have indeed already saved a number of lives. Building on this successful and extensive experience, Breitling has achieved a new and unprecedented technical feat in presenting the new Emergency with a built-in personal locator beacon.
The Emergency is not only a personal survival instrument. It is also an electronic chronograph featuring all the functions useful to professionals and adventurers: 12/24-hour analog and digital display, 1/100th second chronograph, alarm, timer, second timezone, multilingual calendar and battery end-of-life indication. It is equipped with a thermocompensated SuperQuartz™ movement ten times more accurate than standard quartz and chronometer-certified by the COSC (Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute) – the highest industry benchmark in terms of precision and reliability. The “watch” and “transmitter” parts have been designed as two distinct elements, totally independent in terms of both operation and energy source and thus ensuring enhanced security. The highly complex case is made from titanium, the favorite aeronautical metal that is at once sturdy, light, anti-magnetic, corrosion-resistant and nonallergenic. It comes with a choice of three dials – black, yellow or orange – and fitted with a titanium bracelet or rubber strap. The satin-brushed bezel is engraved with a compass scale accentuating its powerful, technical appeal. The sapphire crystal glareproofed on both sides, along with the luminescent hands and numerals, guarantee optimal readability in any conditions. A peerless functionality for the world’s first wristwatch with a built-in dual frequency personal locator beacon.