Luxury Swiss watchmaker Breitling has unveiled a new chronograph at Baselworld 2015 that connects to a smartphone. 

The new B55 Connected combines analogue dials with digital displays, and gets the latter part of its name from its ability to sync with a Breitling app on a smartphone. 

By connecting to their smartphone, users will be able to better utilise the B55 Connected's array of functions and can also use their phones to set and calibrate the watch. 

The model is said to be ideal for aviators, aviation enthusiasts and regular flyers, allowing them to use their phone app as an easy way to control the watch, such as setting alarms, changing time zones, adjusting display and operating parameters, and activating the night mode. 

The new connected watch system facilitates use of the chronograph functions, in keeping with the spirit of authentic instruments for professionals.

In creating its first “connected” chronograph, Breitling says it has applied a new philosophy “placing the smartphone in the service of the watch so as to enhance its functionality and conviviality.” 

In 2014, Breitling presented Caliber B50, an electronic multifunction chronograph movement with analog and digital displays. This ‘motor’ served to offer pilots a range of innovative functions along with ease of use, and led to the launch of the B55 Connected.

In the new watch, the chronograph “remains the absolute master” and the connection with the smartphone is primarily designed to improve its user friendliness. 

Two-way communication enables the two instruments to form a complementary pair in which each is used for what it does best, says the manufacture.

Since the main assets of a smartphone are its screen and its ergonomic interface, owners of the B55 Connected can use their phone to set the time, time zones, alarms, display and operating parameters, and night mode. 

Conversely, the user may also upload the results of various measurements such as flight times from the chronograph to the smartphone so as to be able to read them more easily, store them or pass them on. 

The new watch is also distinguished by an ultra-technical look, based on a titanium case with black carbon-based coating and a dial adorned with a blue wireless symbol. 

This blue and black theme continues on the sturdy rubber strap.

The B55 Connected boasts a wide range of functions that make it the ultimate pilot’s instrument, including an electronic tachometer, a countdown/count-up system enabling a sequence of countdown and “long duration” timing (Mission Elapsed Time) operations, along with an eminently aviation-oriented “chrono flight” device that is useful in recording flight times while memorising the take-off time, landing time and date. 

It is equipped with a simple and logical control mode, involving function selection by rotating the crown, and activation/deactivation by means of two pushpieces. 

The two LCD (liquid crystal display) screens feature a high-intensity backlighting system that may be activated merely by pressing the crown – or when the user tilts his wrist at a more than 35-degree angle, which proves particularly effective when the hand is gripping aircraft controls or a steering wheel. 

An innovative miniaturised rechargeable battery system enables the watch to be recharged via the main grid or a USB port. 

The watch uses the Breitling Caliber B55, a SuperQuartz movement that is said to be ten times more accurate than standard quartz, and chronometer-certified by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC), the highest industry benchmark in terms of reliability and precision based on an international norm.

The world’s premier watch and jewellery show, Baselworld is being held in Basel, Switzerland, until March 26.