The Aston Martin DB5 doesn’t need an introduction. Since its debut in 1963, the grand tourer has become one of the most recognisable cars in the world — a symbol of British design, engineering and cinematic cool. Now, its influence moves from the road to the wrist with Breitling’s new Top Time B01 Chronograph 41 Tribute to Aston Martin DB5.
The connection between the two names goes beyond a modern collaboration. In 1965, a Breitling Top Time Ref. 2002 appeared on Sean Connery’s wrist in Thunderball, alongside the Aston Martin DB5, creating one of the most memorable pairings of speed, style and spy-era sophistication.
Nearly six decades later, Breitling revisits that moment with three limited-edition timepieces inspired by the details that made the DB5 an icon.
The new Top Time B01 Chronograph 41 borrows from the DB5’s design language without becoming a literal replica of the car. A wooden inner ring references the DB5’s steering wheel, while the “squircle” sub-dials echo the look of classic dashboard gauges. The leather straps recreate the warmth and depth of vintage automotive interiors, bringing a touch of the grand tourer’s character to the wrist.
“The Aston Martin DB5 is one of those rare designs that never fades. It still feels as relevant today as it did in the 1960s,” says Georges Kern, CEO of House of Brands (Universal Genève, Breitling and Gallet).
The collection arrives in three distinct editions, each offering a different interpretation of the DB5’s legacy. The stainless steel model with a silver dial, limited to 1,022 pieces, stays closest to the spirit of the original Top Time Ref. 2002. The steel and platinum version introduces a sharper contrast with its black lacquered dial and platinum bezel, limited to 315 pieces. Completing the collection, the 18k red gold edition features a natural onyx dial (a first for Breitling) with only 250 individually numbered pieces produced.