When Sean Connery wore a Breitling Top Time behind the wheel of an Aston Martin DB5 in the 1965 James Bond film Thunderball, it was the first Q-modified gadget watch in the franchise’s history. Six decades later, Breitling and Aston Martin have formalized that connection into an official partnership—and the first DB5-dedicated result is the Top Time B01 Chronograph 41 Tribute to Aston Martin DB5, released in three limited editions.
All three models are powered by Breitling’s manufacture Calibre 01, feature automotive-inspired wood accents and leather straps, and are available in limited runs of 1,022, 315, and 250 pieces respectively.
The design logic is interior-led rather than performance-led: A wooden inner ring draws on the DB5’s steering wheel, and the hand-colored gradient leather strap reflects the depth and tone of luxury car upholstery. The “squircle” subdials replicate classic car dashboard gauges. The cushion-shape case, grooved corners, and mushroom pushers are carried over from the 1960s Top Time reference (the same family Connery wore), updated to 41 mm.
The entry model in stainless steel with a silver dial, limited to 1,022 pieces, is priced at $11,400. A steel and platinum version with a black lacquered dial (315 pieces) is $18,600. The top edition, in 18k red gold with a natural onyx dial, is limited to 250 pieces at $41,500. The onyx dial marks the first time Breitling has used the stone in its watchmaking.
This is the second limited edition from the Breitling-Aston Martin partnership, which was announced at the beginning of 2026. The first was a titanium Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team (limited to 1,959 pieces), which has already sold out. The DB5 release shifts from motorsport to road car heritage.
All three models are available now through Breitling boutiques and authorized dealers.
Top: The Top Time B01 Chronograph 41 Tribute to Aston Martin DB5 in three limited editions (photos courtesy of Aston Martin)
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