Forget the G.O.A.T herding Leo Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo debate; or the on-track spats between F1’s Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton – one of world sport’s fiercest (lesser known) rivalries dates back to 1940s, where Italian cyclists Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali used to battle over thousands of miles all across Europe.
Between them, the two cyclists traded countless race wins and titles, forever motivated by victory, but also by beating each other. Their legendary rivalry was matched only by their respect for each other – a moment that was famously captured in a photo of the two passing a bottle of water bottle between each other during the 1952 Tour de France, before resuming their race up the mountainous Col du Galibier.
It is this moment in history (and their overall rivalry) that Breitling pays tribute to with a limited-edition release of two new Top Time B01 chronographs – one dedicated to Fausto Coppi, the other to Gino Bartali – in honour of their lasting impact on sports and society.
Both options of the new watches feature striking colours widely associated with the cyclists, inspired by their bikes and racing jerseys as they competed for cycling’s greatest titles – Tour De France, Giro D’Italia etc.
While Gino Bartali’s model features a blue and yellow theme inspired by the cyclist’s team, Fausto Coppi’s option bears a close resemblance to Bianchi’s primary colours.
The Top Time was introduced in the transformative 1960s as Willy Breitling’s bold and unconventional line of racing chronographs, designed to capture the era’s penchant for speed and style. As lifestyles evolved, the Top Time resonated for its dynamic proportions and graphic dials. Decades later, it still embodies that spirit—now with two special editions honoring legends of the cycling world.
Both 750-piece limited editions feature their nicknames on the tachymeter scale: “Il Campionissimo” (Champion of Champions) for Coppi and “L’Intramontabile” (The Timeless) for Bartali. Their signatures at six o’clock make the connection even more personal.
Each watch comes with the choice of a racing-themed calfskin strap or a stainless-steel mesh bracelet. The 41 mm chronograph runs on Breitling’s Manufacture Caliber 01, offering COSC-certified precision and a 70-hour power reserve. A transparent caseback reveals the intricate movement, its outer ring engraved with either “Fausto Coppi Tribute” or “Gino Bartali Tribute” and “One of 750.”
Unforgettable in their time, reimagined for ours, the Top Time B01 Coppi & Bartali honor the resilience and friendships forged even in the fiercest competition.