One of the shining stars of Baselworld 2013 was the Breitling Emergency II, the “II” standing not only for the fact that it is the second watch in the line but also for the fact that it is the world’s first wristwatch with a dual frequency locator beacon.
Developed in conjunction with major scientific institutes, the Emergency II is a high-tech piece of extreme micro-engineering fully compliant with the specifications of the Cospas-Sarsat international satellite alert system. Based on a network of satellites in low-altitude earth orbit (LEOSAR) and in geostationary orbit (GEOSAR), the Cospas-Sarsat international satellite alert system comprises ground receiving stations as well as control and coordination centers. Its mission is to provide accurate and reliable distress alert and homing data. The supply of which, helps search and rescue (SAR) authorities provide fast and efficient assistance to persons in distress. In fact, since its launch in 1985, the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system has helped save more than 26,000 lives.
The Emergency is more than “just” a personal survival instrument
It was because of this system that satellite processing at the 121.5 MHz frequency was phased out in 2009, and that alerts would be triggered only on 406 MHz, a digital frequency that offers enhanced security, provide more comprehensive information, and reduce the number of false alarms. Nonetheless, the analog 121.5 MHz signal is still received on land, by ships at sea and by airborne aircraft and remains the most efficient and reliable system for homing in on victims. Distress radio beacons, then, must utilize these dual-digital/analog-frequencies to guarantee accurate homing.
The result of over 5 years of research and development, the Breitling Emergency II, with its ingenious and user-friendly integrated dual antenna system, uses both 406 MHz and the older 121.5 MHz to better fulfill the three steps that make up maritime, aviation and land operations: alert, homing and rescue.
Unfortunately, this translated into a wristwatch measuring 51 mm in diameter. Meaning the Emergency II is a timepiece of somewhat gargantuan proportions, a problem compensated by Breitling’s use of titanium. Simply put: for all its immensity, the titanium forged Emergency II is uncannily lightweight. In fact, your senses will probably have trouble grappling with the fact that something so large can be so light, coming in at only 140 g without the strap.
This year, the Emergency (now sans the “II”), is being issued in three special editions called Night Mission that combines fiery colors with a matte black dial and the same titanium case now also distinguished in black thanks to a high-resistance carbon-based treatment. This über-cool, satin-brushed finish certainly helps with the watch’s girth, and anyways it guarantees the Emergency always operates in “stealth” mode.
The first and second Night Missions respectively come fully loaded with bright orange hands and hour-markers, as well as a rubber strap in the same vivid color for the former, while the same combination enlivens the latter albeit in an even brighter yellow. This undoubtedly makes for stunning contrasts with the powerful black case and dial. Imagine Apollo Creed wearing Stabilo colors and you’ll be close.
But as arresting as those two versions are, the model to have is the Night Mission with a gorgeously shimmering blue mother of pearl dial echoed by a matching blue rubber strap. This version adds a touch of class to the otherwise hyper-utilitarian proceedings.
This year, the Emergency is issued in three special editions called Night Mission that combines fiery colors with a matte black dial and case
As before, the Emergency is more than “just” a personal survival instrument. It also happens to be an electronic chronograph featuring a 12/24-hour analog and digital display, a 1/100th second chronograph, an alarm, timer, a second timezone, a multilingual calendar and a battery end-of-life indication, all powered by the COSC certified Breitling Calibre 76, a thermocompensated SuperQuartz movement that is ten times more accurate than standard quartz.
And because the Emergency employs a new digital system, the owner MUST register the watch at the moment of purchase. Rescue authorities will, therefore, be privy to who owns the watch the moment the on-board PLB alert signal is sounded.
