Astronaut James McDivitt's Breitling Cosmonaute on Auction

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InEx. James McDivitt​

Breitling Cosmonaute Navitimer Chronograph Wristwatch as Presented to Astronaut James McDivitt by King Hussein of Jordan, Never Worn and in Original Box, includes McDivitt's Signed and Illustrated Certificate of Authenticity. This item is a remarkable piece of space and horological history, combining both its inherent value as a rare Breitling Cosmonaute Navitimer and its exceptional provenance. Presented to Astronaut James McDivitt by King Hussein of Jordan, it carries significant historical importance that is difficult to overstate.

This example's originality and condition are truly outstanding. The watch remains unworn and preserved in its original box, with unpolished lugs and a sharp, distinctive bevel line, which will appeal greatly to collectors seeking untouched pieces. The crown and buckle strap also bear the original Breitling markings, contributing to its authenticity and completeness.

Of particular note is the personalization of this watch: the case back is engraved with King Hussein's name in Arabic along with a crown motif. This unique engraving enhances the historical and cultural significance of the watch, cementing its ties to an iconic moment of international camaraderie during the Space Race era.

Additionally, the included signed and illustrated Certificate of Authenticity from James McDivitt himself adds a personal narrative layer, making this watch not just a collectible, but a true artifact of space history. This is an extraordinary opportunity for collectors of both fine watches and space memorabilia to acquire an untouched, historically rich piece that has ties to both NASA and royalty-a convergence that rarely comes to market.

King Hussein of Jordan, born on November 14, 1935, in Amman, ruled from 1953 until his death in 1999, making him one of the longest-serving monarchs in history. As a member of the Hashemite dynasty, he played a crucial role in shaping modern Jordan through a series of reforms aimed at economic development and political stability, while navigating the complexities of regional conflicts and relations with Israel. His legacy includes significant efforts towards peace in the Middle East, exemplified by the signing of a peace treaty with Israel in 1994, and he is fondly remembered as "Al-Malik Al-Insan" or "The Humane King" for his commitment to improving the lives of his people.


https://historical.ha.com/itm/space...ev/a/6304-50188.s?type=bidnotice-dailystatus#
 
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Very interesting, haven't seen any photographs of James McDivitt wearing a Breitling chronograph.
Remember 63 years ago, Scott Carpenter was the first NASA astronaut to request Breitling to get a Navitimer chronograph. Scott Carpenter used it 4 months during NASA training and gave Breitling practical feedback on how they should alter/modify the "standard" Navitimer chronograph for his upcoming "Aurora 7" mission.
Thanks to a few technical issues which lead to 3 launch delays, Scott Carpenter received his bespoke Breitling Navitimer chronograph on May 18, 1962 just six days before his spaceflight mission... making the Breitling Navitimer chronograph the very first Swiss-made watch in space !
#Moonwatchuniverse