Breitling - Foot-Ball - 1950-1959

Put up for auction: a rare sporty pocket chronometer signed Breitling, model “Foot-Ball,” Swiss-made, dating estimate between the 1950s and 1960s.
A specimen intended for the sports field, in particular football, belonging to Breitling’s technical production preceding the famous wrist chronographs.
Historical context and intended use
This model was conceived as a tool specifically designed for use in football games.
The original dial signed “Breitling Foot-Ball” indeed features:
External scale 60 seconds
Internal scale 45 minutes
The reference to 45 minutes corresponds to the regulation duration of a half in football.
In the 1940s–1950s referees used mechanical pocket chronometers for official game-time control. The inscription “Foot-Ball” printed on the dial clearly indicates the sport-oriented purpose of the model, an element that increases its collecting interest, especially considering football’s wide international diffusion.
Technical characteristics
Manual-wind mechanical movement
Functions: start / stop / reset via side button (monopusher)
Traditional chronograph architecture with gears and levers well preserved
Balance wheel with fine regulation
Case diameter: about 50 mm
Case in chrome-plated steel
Two hinged backs (inner protective cuvette)
Marking: Swiss Made
Conditions
Chronometer perfectly functional.
Before going on sale it underwent technical control:
movement checked
start/stop/reset functions regular
smooth running
Very good aesthetic condition for its age. Normal signs of wear consistent with a vintage object over 70 years old.
Collecting interest
Breitling “Foot-Ball” chronometers are professional sports timing instruments today sought after by:
vintage watch collectors
enthusiasts of mechanical timing instruments
collectors of football memorabilia
Complete specimen, with double case back and well-preserved movement.