Each marker on the ring is one counted review, coloured by its verdict.

Breitling

Top Time B31

AB3113A71C2X138mmautomatic$5,600 list priceAnnounced March 2025

A 38mm steel time-and-date watch that borrows the look of Breitling's 1960s Top Time chronographs, with a contrasting inner minute ring, rally-style strap and 100m water resistance. It was the first watch to use Breitling's B31 automatic calibre, which has a 78-hour power reserve.

Breitling product page

Creator Consensus

Very positive

8 reviews: 8 positive, 0 mixed, 0 negative. 8 of 8 recommend it.

Every reviewer recommends it, and nearly all see the proprietary B31 calibre as a significant step for Breitling. Most find it competitively positioned against big-name rivals and praise the toolless micro-adjust clasp. Several note how thin the case stays despite the domed crystal and highlight the fun, well-executed colourways and surprisingly good movement decoration.

Where they differ. The date cyclops splits opinion: a couple of reviewers find it adds vintage charm, while a couple of others feel it interrupts the dial for little practical gain.

Most praised

Proprietary B31 calibre is a major step for Breitling7 of 8
- Time+Tide Values that the COSC movement is not a generic off-the-shelf calibre.a COSC-certified movement that isn’t just an off-the-shelf drop-inRead it in context
- Chisholm Hunter Excited that the B31 is Breitling's first three-hand calibre.this is actually bright Ling's first threehand caliber which is pretty damn awesomeWatch from 5:19
- Chisholm Hunter Views the movement as evidence of Breitling's innovation.it shows the Innovation going on behind the brightling brandWatch from 5:19
- Teddy Baldassarre Believes the proprietary calibre greatly improves the watch's appeal at this price.completely alters its viability at this price for a large segment of collectorsWatch from 7:44
- Teddy Baldassarre Finds the movement visually appealing and game-changing for the brand.this game-changing movement from BrightlingWatch from 8:43
- Britt Pearce Likes the direction Breitling is taking with its in-house calibres.the movement is really good-looking and I like the direction they're going in with their calibersWatch from 7:39
- Worn & Wound Considers the B31 a solid, welcome addition to the lineup.the B31 is a solid movement and a welcome addition to the Breitling lineupRead it in context
- Adrian Barker Views the new calibre as the main highlight of the watch.I feel like the movement is the showstopper. The big story here.Watch from 2:53
- Bruce Williams Calls developing the movement a major positive that could improve perceptions of the brand.developing this movement was a massive positive for BrightlingWatch from 4:20
Competitively priced against big-name rivals6 of 8
- Time+Tide Sees it as one of the more compelling offerings in the segment among big-name brands.offers one of the more compelling daily wearer offerings in the price segmentRead it in context
- Teddy Baldassarre Places the pricing competitively among Grand Seiko, Omega, Rolex and IWC.putting them right in the mix with others in the rangeWatch from 10:10
- Teddy Baldassarre Feels the pricing and looks meet expectations for the brand.The pricing, the looks, it all nails what I would expect from the brandWatch from 11:06
- Britt Pearce Feels buyers get a lot of watch for the money.I think these are very reasonably priced and you're getting a lot of watch for your money.Watch from 6:11
- Britt Pearce Calls the price competitive for a well-known brand.really competitive price point for a brand with a lot of name recognitionWatch from 7:39
- Worn & Wound Places it competitively in the middle of its peer group on price and specs.the Top Time B31 places itself very competitively in the middle of the packRead it in context
- Worn & Wound Finds the higher price over the Black Bay One easily justified.I find price justification quickly apparent on this oneRead it in context
- Adrian Barker Acknowledges it's a lot of money but thinks it compares well with the market.This sits really quite favorably.Watch from 4:44
- Bruce Williams Says Breitling balances strong specs, a solid price and tasteful finishing, which few rivals achieve.great specs, a solid price, and very tasteful finishingWatch from 3:23
- Bruce Williams Positions the watch as competing more with Omega and IWC.it competes more with OmegaWatch from 3:51
Toolless micro-adjust clasp is excellent5 of 8
- Teddy Baldassarre Likes the clasp's on-the-fly micro-adjustment.a nice surprise inside once you deploy the twin push button releaseWatch from 4:20
- Britt Pearce Values the toolless on-the-fly micro-adjustment clasp as essential for daily wear.There is on the-fly micro adjustment so you can toollessly adjust your braceletWatch from 4:19
- Adrian Barker Considers the on-the-fly micro adjustment excellent: simple, cleanly machined, finely segmented.it's got a very good brace extension system. I do enjoy that.Watch from 4:44
- Bruce Williams Praises the bracelet and its sliding quick-adjustment clasp.a great bracelet, a sliding quick adjustment claspWatch from 0:00
- Fratello Praises the bracelet's fit and finish and its toolless micro-adjustment clasp.The bracelet is solid in terms of fit and finishWatch from 2:56
Case is impressively thin, even with domed crystal4 of 8
- Chisholm Hunter Praises the 10.3mm thickness as beautifully thin.the thickness comes in at 10.3 mm it is beautifully thinWatch from 0:59
- Adrian Barker Finds the case pleasingly thin once the domed crystal is discounted.you do have really quite a pleasingly thin watchWatch from 2:23
- Adrian Barker Appreciates that case thickness has been executed so well, calling it often overlooked.It's nice to see that being executed so well.Watch from 5:12
- Bruce Williams Highlights the slim total height, including the bubble crystal.inside measures in at only 10.3 mm in total heightWatch from 1:57
- Fratello Credits the thin case and domed crystal with a sleek look on the wrist.relatively thin profile of 10.3 millimeters give it a sleek lookWatch from 1:28
Colourways are fun and well executed4 of 8
- Chisholm Hunter Finds the new colour options fun and clean.I think these are really fun I think these are really cleanWatch from 1:28
- Teddy Baldassarre Finds all colourways fantastic, with a favourite in white and light blue.Now, the colorways are fantastic. I really do love this white and light blueWatch from 9:41
- Britt Pearce Finds the selected colourways fantastic and well executed.colors they selected. They look fantastic.Watch from 7:39
- Worn & Wound Green and blue versions look striking with well-matched minute tracks.offer striking visuals with well-complemented outer minute tracksRead it in context
Movement decoration surprisingly good for the price4 of 8
- Time+Tide Describes the B31 as handsomely decorated, albeit in an industrial style.handsomely (albeit decidedly industrially) decorated automatic movementRead it in context
- Britt Pearce Considers the movement good-looking with surprising decoration.A surprising amount of decoration with Geneva stripesWatch from 5:44
- Adrian Barker Finds the movement decoration, including Geneva stripes and perlage, surprisingly good for the price.The movement is finished to quite a surprising level for the price.Watch from 3:21
- Bruce Williams Says most brands with attainably priced in-house movements cannot match this finishing.they just can't finish the movements like thisWatch from 2:27
- Bruce Williams Finds the calibre good-looking and likes the skeletonised construction that exposes the finished main plate.I think it's a very goodlooking in-house caliberWatch from 3:51

Show 23 more

38mm diameter hits a sizing sweet spot3 of 8
- Chisholm Hunter Considers the 38mm diameter the perfect size.on the wrist they wear absolutely perfectly they are the perfect sizeWatch from 0:59
- Britt Pearce Calls the case dimensions attractive and 'goldilocks' sized.Really attractive dimensions. Those goldilocks dimensions a lot of people are looking for.Watch from 1:26
- Fratello Considers the 38mm size a sweet spot between classic and modern proportions.sweet spot between classic proportions and modern wearabilityWatch from 1:28
Proportions suit a wide range of wrists3 of 8
- Time+Tide Believes the 38mm case with 45.8mm lug-to-lug will fit nearly any wrist.the Top Time B31 will flatter nearly any wrist in terms of fitRead it in context
- Teddy Baldassarre Considers the 38mm case an easy wear for average wrists.a really easy wear for the average size wristWatch from 2:25
- Britt Pearce Finds it perfectly proportioned on a 7-inch wrist.I think it looks absolutely perfect on himWatch from 1:54
- Britt Pearce Expects the size to suit a wide range of wrists.I think this size is going to work for a lot of people.Watch from 1:54
Orange seconds hand is a well-judged accent3 of 8
- Chisholm Hunter Feels the orange seconds hand works across every colourway and stays legible.it actually plays pretty damn well through every single color variationWatch from 4:21
- Teddy Baldassarre Praises the orange seconds hand, which stands out against the dial.it pops nicely against the rest of the dialWatch from 5:47
- Fratello Finds the orange seconds hand a well-judged accent that is not overdone.adds just enough of an accent without feeling over the topWatch from 2:27
Clean, high-contrast legibility3 of 8
- Teddy Baldassarre Finds the dial text well balanced and the date legible.well balanced above and below the center hand stackWatch from 5:47
- Worn & Wound Finds legibility clean with strong contrast.Overall, legibility is clean with excellent contrast.Read it in context
- Bruce Williams Finds the watch legible.It's sharp. It's legible.Watch from 6:44
White and blue variant stands out3 of 8
- Chisholm Hunter Favours the white and blue version as fun without going over the top.just the perfect combination of a little bit of fun but not too much funWatch from 3:52
- Teddy Baldassarre Calls the white and sky blue version the most striking variant.this is probably the most striking variant of the collectionWatch from 6:16
- Adrian Barker Picks the white dial with baby blue chapter ring on brown leather as a stunning favourite.That combination is stunning. Love that.Watch from 5:41
Bracelet is worth the modest upcharge3 of 8
- Time+Tide Recommends opting for the bracelet and adding a strap later thanks to the 20mm lug width.I’d try to make the jump up to the bracelet and circle back for a leather strapRead it in context
- Time+Tide Views the bracelet's small US$300 premium as worthwhile.the bracelet option will cost you only US$300 moreRead it in context
- Worn & Wound Strongly recommends the comfortable bracelet for the modest upcharge.I highly recommend that route anyway, as it is a very comfortable braceletRead it in context
- Bruce Williams Particularly likes the watch on the bracelet.I really like seeing it on this professional braceletWatch from 6:15
Long power reserve with chronometer certification3 of 8
- Teddy Baldassarre Highlights a power reserve that exceeds key rivals.78 hours of power reserve which extends beyond the standard of peersWatch from 8:13
- Worn & Wound Impressed by the 78-hour power reserve alongside COSC certification.achieves a very impressive 78 hours of power reserveRead it in context
- Bruce Williams Views the 78-hour power reserve as slightly above the unofficial industry standard.78 hours of power reserve, which is just a little bit more than what I considerWatch from 1:57
- Bruce Williams Welcomes the chronometer certification.I love the fact that this is chronometer certifiedWatch from 3:51
Practical 100m water resistance in a slim case3 of 8
- Teddy Baldassarre Feels the 100m water resistance supports daily wear.further making the case for daily wearWatch from 3:21
- Britt Pearce Welcomes the 100m water resistance as practical.100 meters of water resistance is easy to chooseWatch from 7:09
- Worn & Wound Likes achieving 100m with a display caseback and non-screw crown while staying slim.it is fantastic to see a brand offer 100 meters with a display casebackRead it in context
Strong go-anywhere everyday watch3 of 8
- Time+Tide Describes the watch as stylish and smart-casual in a compact steel case.all about a stylish, smart casual aesthetic in a compact steel caseRead it in context
- Britt Pearce Views it as a go-anywhere everyday watch with Top Time personality.It's a go anywhere, do anything watch with the personality of the top time.Watch from 3:21
- Britt Pearce Thinks it fills a needed everyday slot in Breitling's catalogue.I think it was needed in their catalog, and it makes a lot of sense.Watch from 7:09
- Fratello Views it as a strong everyday choice blending vintage charm and modern refinement.wearable everyday watch with a mix of vintage charm and modern refinementWatch from 3:54
Sits flat and comfortably on the wrist2 of 8
- Bruce Williams Likes how flat it sits on a 7.25-inch wrist.I like how flat it sits on my 7.25 in wristWatch from 6:44
- Bruce Williams Finds it comfortable on the wrist.In my opinion, it wears comfortablyWatch from 6:44
- Fratello Finds it comfortable and balanced thanks to the tapered lugs and thin case.feels comfortable and well balanced thanks to the tapered lugs and thin case profileWatch from 2:56
Sloped lugs add interest and lighten the case2 of 8
- Worn & Wound Bezel and lug slopes match, making a cohesive case that lightens its visual heft.The gentle slope of the bezel matches that of the lugs, creating a cohesive visualRead it in context
- Bruce Williams Likes how the angled lugs and recessed end links add visual interest.This creates some good visual interestWatch from 5:18
Crown well sized, vintage in character2 of 8
- Adrian Barker Likes the crown size and the absence of crown guards for the vintage feel.One thing I do like about the crown is the size of itWatch from 2:53
- Bruce Williams Finds the signed crown properly sized and easy to operate.I like that the crown is properly sizedWatch from 5:18
Contrasting coloured outer rings add depth2 of 8
- Time+Tide Appreciates that the dials use contrasting coloured centres and borders rather than basic hues.the Top Time is all about contrast, with coloured centres and contrasting bordersRead it in context
- Chisholm Hunter Credits the coloured outer seconds ring with keeping the bezel-less dial from looking too big.it actually means that the dial doesn't wear too bigWatch from 2:53
Domed crystal lends refined vintage character2 of 8
- Time+Tide Finds the cambered crystal adds vintage feel and boosts legibility of the minute track.creating a somewhat vintage feel, and increases the legibilityRead it in context
- Fratello Sees the subtly domed crystal as a nod to the 60s that looks refined and streamlined.gives it a refined and streamlined lookWatch from 2:56
Cyclops adds vintage charm2 of 8
- Worn & Wound Does not mind the cyclops, seeing it as adding vintage charm and function.adds a bit of vintage charm and functionality without offending meRead it in context
- Bruce Williams Likes the low, squarish cyclops despite acknowledging it can be divisive.it magnifies the date nicelyWatch from 5:46
Bracelet link design feels sporty and dynamic2 of 8
- Time+Tide Finds the slanted, twisted bracelet links give it a more dynamic feel.giving the bracelet a more dynamic feelRead it in context
- Adrian Barker Sees the three-link polished-centre bracelet as sporty and modernising.It gives a watch a much more modern feel.Watch from 1:55
Leather straps suit the watch best2 of 8
- Chisholm Hunter Prefers the leather straps over the bracelet, unusually for this reviewer.I'm more of a fan on the leather straps of these modelsWatch from 4:21
- Chisholm Hunter Feels the leather straps match the watch's theme.I just think it fits better with the theme of of these watchesWatch from 4:21
- Teddy Baldassarre Prefers the colour-matched leather straps for styling, despite usually favouring bracelets.is probably my preference for styling with these watchesWatch from 4:48
Leather straps are soft and age well2 of 8
- Britt Pearce Finds the rally strap soft and unpadded, adding a vintage feel.The strap quality is really good as well. Soft leather.Watch from 4:46
- Worn & Wound The leather strap starts stiff but softens nicely and should age well.Out of the box, it is stiff but breaks in nicelyRead it in context
Well-executed mix of brushed and polished surfaces2 of 8
- Teddy Baldassarre Finds a fine level of finishing throughout the case, mixing polished and brushed surfaces.fine level of finish throughout the caseWatch from 2:52
- Britt Pearce Finds the brushed and polished finishing well done and elevated.finishing is really well done. It feels elevated, but still sportyWatch from 3:51
Can be dressed up for formal wear2 of 8
- Chisholm Hunter Believes the watch can still be worn with formal attire.you can still imagine wearing these watches with a suit and tieWatch from 1:56
- Worn & Wound Sees it as an excellent everyday or dress watch.nitpicks on an otherwise excellent everyday or dress watchRead it in context
Faithful three-hand reimagining of the Top Time2 of 8
- Britt Pearce Likes that it keeps Top Time styling but makes it cleaner and more everyday.Watch from 0:00
- Britt Pearce Enjoys the concept of reimagining the Top Time as a three-hander.I just like the entire concept of reimagining the top time as a three-handerWatch from 6:41
- Britt Pearce Considers it a faithful reimagining of the Top Time.This feels like a faithful reimagining of the top timeWatch from 8:08
- Fratello Concludes it is worthy of the Top Time name despite needing adjustment.getting used to the idea of a non-cronograph top, but we certainly think soWatch from 3:54
Slim enough to slip under a shirt cuff1 of 8
- Worn & Wound Its thinness lets it slip under a cuff, suiting everyday wear.making for an excellent, out-of-the-way everyday wearing watchRead it in context
- Worn & Wound Slim enough to fit under a shirt cuff when needed.the Top Time can easily slide under a cuff when neededRead it in context
Layered dial finishes play nicely with light1 of 8
- Worn & Wound Multiple finishes and levels catch the light for an upscale, lively presentation.putting on somewhat of a show with a very elevated appearanceRead it in context
- Worn & Wound Dial's varied finishing techniques and planes play nicely with light.The multiple finishing techniques and varying planes catch light at different timesRead it in context

Most criticised

Push-pull crown rather than screw-down2 of 8
- Worn & Wound The push-pull crown looks like a screw-down crown, which can confuse the owner.visually it will play a trick on the owner now and thenRead it in context
- Adrian Barker Lists the lack of a screw-down crown as the first con.I feel like it should have a screw down crown.Watch from 4:44
Cyclops interrupts dial and adds little function2 of 8
- Adrian Barker Thinks the Cyclops fits the design but is functionally unnecessary given the date window size.the date window on its own is is plenty large enoughWatch from 4:44
- Fratello Feels the cyclops-magnified date slightly interrupts the otherwise clean dial.it slightly interrupts the otherwise clean dial designWatch from 3:25
Polished bracelet surfaces prone to scratches2 of 8
- Adrian Barker Worries the raised polished section on the clasp will scratch easily, though likes the clasp overall.a raised high polish section at the back that's just asking to be scratchedWatch from 4:44
- Bruce Williams Expects the polished centre links to pick up scratches and smudges in daily use.I think these will attract a lot of scratches, scuffs, hairlinesWatch from 6:44
Case feels sterile next to the dial1 of 8
- Worn & Wound Wishes the case had more of the dial's romance; finds it somewhat sterile.as it feels slightly sterile in contrastRead it in context
Crystal edge distortion obscures minute track1 of 8
- Worn & Wound Crystal edge distortion can hinder reading the minute track at some angles.sometimes inhibits your ability to easily read the minutes at a certain angleRead it in context
Date at six would have been preferable1 of 8
- Chisholm Hunter Would have preferred the date at 6 o'clock rather than 3, but calls it minor.I would have like to see it at 6:00 but it's not the end of the worldWatch from 3:52

Show 3 more

Large movement plates deserved more decoration1 of 8
- Worn & Wound Wishes the large plates had received more decoration given the movement's importance.I wish Breitling had taken the time to give it its moment with a bit more decorationRead it in context
Three-hand format may disappoint purists1 of 8
- Fratello Warns the switch to a three-hand format may disappoint purists.might not sit well with purists who love the original's undeniable charmWatch from 3:25
Price leans on name and design over innovation1 of 8
- Fratello Suggests buyers pay more for the name and design than mechanical innovation.you're paying more for the Brightling name and designWatch from 3:54

Open a point to see who said it and jump to that moment in their review.

By aspect

PositiveMixedNegative

How reviewers judged each aspect; one square per reviewer who discussed it
Bracelet & strap		Praised
Movement		Praised
Design		Praised
Dial		Praised
Case & proportions		Praised
Versatility		Praised
Value		Praised
Wearability		Praised
Finishing & build		Praised
Functionality		Praised
Originality		Mostly liked

Was this consensus useful?

The reviews

8 counted

Remontoir summarises; the reviewers did the work. Watch and read the originals for the full picture.

Worn & Wound

Hands-On: the Breitling Top Time B31

ArticleHands-on reviewJul 2025Words By Devin Pennypacker

Very positiveRecommends

An excellent, charming everyday or dress watch with a lively dial, compact, comfortable proportions and a strong movement spec, competitively priced against rivals. The only nitpicks are a somewhat sterile case and an under-decorated movement.

Suits: A first high-end luxury watch or a three-hander to round out a collection

What the review says, point by point

Dialpositive: Finds legibility clean with strong contrast.
Multiple finishes and levels catch the light for an upscale, lively presentation.
Does not mind the cyclops, seeing it as adding vintage charm and function.
Crystal edge distortion can hinder reading the minute track at some angles.
Case & proportionsmixed: Bezel and lug slopes match, making a cohesive case that lightens its visual heft.
The push-pull crown looks like a screw-down crown, which can confuse the owner.
Wishes the case had more of the dial's romance; finds it somewhat sterile.
Wearabilitypositive: Its thinness lets it slip under a cuff, suiting everyday wear.
Looks smaller than its specs suggest but wears true to size.
Works on large wrists but is best suited to small and medium wrists.
Bracelet & strappositive: Strongly recommends the comfortable bracelet for the modest upcharge.
The leather strap starts stiff but softens nicely and should age well.
Finds it odd that the rally holes only pierce the top layer, though they still look sporty.
Movementpositive: Impressed by the 78-hour power reserve alongside COSC certification.
Considers the B31 a solid, welcome addition to the lineup.
Wishes the large plates had received more decoration given the movement's importance.
Finishing & buildmixed: Dial's varied finishing techniques and planes play nicely with light.
Movement decoration leans industrial but is still decent enough to view through the caseback.
Functionalitypositive: Likes achieving 100m with a display caseback and non-screw crown while staying slim.
Versatilitypositive: Sees it as an excellent everyday or dress watch.
Slim enough to fit under a shirt cuff when needed.
Designpositive: Finds it broadly appealing and full of charm.
Green and blue versions look striking with well-matched minute tracks.
Originalitymixed: Notes the design elements reflect deliberate trend-following.
Believes it has enough distinguishing traits to differentiate itself in the market.
Valuepositive: Places it competitively in the middle of its peer group on price and specs.
Finds the higher price over the Black Bay One easily justified.
Compared with: Tudor Black Bay One 39: Tudor is cheaper but has lacking design and simpler finishing.
Omega Aqua Terra Shades 38mm: Omega is thicker, pricier, with less power reserve and a more boring dial.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36mm: Rolex is refined but simpler, smaller, pricier and hard to find.

Read on wornandwound.com

Time+Tide

The Breitling Top Time B31 could be the top dog under US$6,000

ArticleHands-on reviewJun 2025Zach Blass

Very positiveRecommends

Sees the Top Time B31 as a well-judged, compact smart-casual time-and-date watch with contrasting dials and a proprietary COSC movement. Considers it one of the more compelling daily-wear options under US$6,000 among big-name brands.

Suits: Buyers wanting a compact, smart-casual daily wearer from a big-name brand

What the review says, point by point

Dialpositive: Appreciates that the dials use contrasting coloured centres and borders rather than basic hues.
Finds the cambered crystal adds vintage feel and boosts legibility of the minute track.
Feels the non-colour-matched date blends in well by replacing an hour index.
Names the white dial with sky blue ring as a personal favourite for its summery look.
Wearabilitypositive: Believes the 38mm case with 45.8mm lug-to-lug will fit nearly any wrist.
Functionalitypositive: Notes the push-pull crown suits its smart-casual role and it remains swim-safe.
Bracelet & strappositive: Points out the blue strap is a shade darker than the dial, though not a negative.
Finds the slanted, twisted bracelet links give it a more dynamic feel.
Recommends opting for the bracelet and adding a strap later thanks to the 20mm lug width.
Movementpositive: Describes the B31 as handsomely decorated, albeit in an industrial style.
Values that the COSC movement is not a generic off-the-shelf calibre.
Valuepositive: Sees it as one of the more compelling offerings in the segment among big-name brands.
Views the bracelet's small US$300 premium as worthwhile.
Versatilitypositive: Describes the watch as stylish and smart-casual in a compact steel case.

Read on timeandtidewatches.com

Bruce Williams

Breitling Making Massive Moves - New Caliber, New Model

Video, 8 minHands-on reviewMay 2025

Very positiveRecommends

The reviewer sees the Top Time B31 as a significant release, praising the thin, well-finished in-house B31 calibre, the clean design, the bracelet and clasp, and the comfortable wear. The only reservation is polished bracelet centre links that may scuff.

Suits: Newer collectors and those put off by Breitling's larger, shinier models

Disclosure: Retailer stock

What they said, point by point

Movementpositive: Finds the movement's 4.8mm height excellent, enabling thinner watches. 1:28
Views the 78-hour power reserve as slightly above the unofficial industry standard. 1:57
Welcomes the chronometer certification. 3:51
Calls developing the movement a major positive that could improve perceptions of the brand. 4:20
Finishing & buildpositive: Says most brands with attainably priced in-house movements cannot match this finishing. 2:27
Finds the calibre good-looking and likes the skeletonised construction that exposes the finished main plate. 3:51
Designpositive: Describes the design as clean and simple with a touch of colour. 5:18
Likes how the angled lugs and recessed end links add visual interest. 5:18
Finds the watch sharp in presence with nice details. 0:00
Dialpositive: Likes the applied B logo on the dial. 5:18
Likes the low, squarish cyclops despite acknowledging it can be divisive. 5:46
Finds the watch legible. 6:44
Case & proportionspositive: Highlights the slim total height, including the bubble crystal. 1:57
Finds the signed crown properly sized and easy to operate. 5:18
Bracelet & strapmixed: Praises the bracelet and its sliding quick-adjustment clasp. 0:00
Particularly likes the watch on the bracelet. 6:15
Expects the polished centre links to pick up scratches and smudges in daily use. 6:44
Wearabilitypositive: Likes how flat it sits on a 7.25-inch wrist. 6:44
Feels it wears slightly larger than its size, like a 39mm. 6:44
Finds it comfortable on the wrist. 6:44
Versatilitypositive: Considers it versatile and good on other strap options. 6:15
Regards it as a daily-driver type of watch. 7:13
Valuepositive: Says Breitling balances strong specs, a solid price and tasteful finishing, which few rivals achieve. 3:23
Positions the watch as competing more with Omega and IWC. 3:51
Compared with: Oris (Calibre 400 models): Oris in-house movement has more industrial brushed and blasted finishing.

Watch on YouTube

Britt Pearce

NEW Top Time B31: The Breitling for people who don't like Breitling

Video, 10 minHands-on reviewApr 2025

Very positiveRecommends

The reviewer is enthusiastic about the three-hand Top Time. It is seen as a faithful, simpler reimagining with great colours, well-judged dimensions, excellent bracelet and strap, and an attractive new movement. It is called competitively priced, and the only noted caveat is that some may find it too polished.

Suits: Those wanting an everyday go-anywhere watch or an entry into Breitling

Disclosure: Brand loaner

What they said, point by point

Designpositive: Finds the selected colourways fantastic and well executed. 7:39
Likes that it keeps Top Time styling but makes it cleaner and more everyday. 0:00
Dialpositive: Praises the baton hands, baton indices and colour pops. 3:21
Case & proportionspositive: Calls the case dimensions attractive and 'goldilocks' sized. 1:26
Wearabilitypositive: Finds it perfectly proportioned on a 7-inch wrist. 1:54
Notes it looks oversized on a 5.5-inch wrist, but in an appealing way. 1:54
Expects the size to suit a wide range of wrists. 1:54
Bracelet & strappositive: Values the toolless on-the-fly micro-adjustment clasp as essential for daily wear. 4:19
Finds the rally strap soft and unpadded, adding a vintage feel. 4:46
Considers the bracelet and strap fully up to luxury expectations. 5:16
Recommends buying the bracelet version and adding a strap separately. 5:16
Movementpositive: Considers the movement good-looking with surprising decoration. 5:44
Likes the direction Breitling is taking with its in-house calibres. 7:39
Finishing & buildpositive: Finds the brushed and polished finishing well done and elevated. 3:51
Acknowledges some buyers may want less polishing, though believes it suits the model. 8:08
Functionalitypositive: Welcomes the 100m water resistance as practical. 7:09
Versatilitypositive: Views it as a go-anywhere everyday watch with Top Time personality. 3:21
Thinks it fills a needed everyday slot in Breitling's catalogue. 7:09
Originalitypositive: Enjoys the concept of reimagining the Top Time as a three-hander. 6:41
Considers it a faithful reimagining of the Top Time. 8:08
Suggests it appeals even to people who don't typically like Breitling. 3:21
Valuepositive: Feels buyers get a lot of watch for the money. 6:11
Calls the price competitive for a well-known brand. 7:39
Compared with: Rolex Oyster Perpetual: Positions the B31 as Breitling's equivalent everyday go-anywhere watch.
Omega Aqua Terra: Cited as a peer everyday watch in another brand's lineup.
TAG Heuer Carrera: Cited as a peer everyday watch in another brand's lineup.

Watch on YouTube

Teddy Baldassarre

Breitling Just Leveled Up - The New Top Time 38mm B31

Video, 13 minHands-on reviewApr 2025

Very positiveRecommends

Sees the 38mm Top Time B31 as a major step for Breitling. It fixes the brand's oversized cases and reliance on third-party three-hand movements, with attractive dials, good finishing, a strong in-house calibre and competitive pricing under $6,000.

Suits: Average-wrist enthusiasts wanting a versatile everyday Breitling three-hander

What they said, point by point

Case & proportionspositive: Considers the 38mm case an easy wear for average wrists. 2:25
Expects the date cyclops to be a love-it-or-hate-it feature. 3:50
Wearabilitypositive: Notes it wears roughly true to size, slightly bigger on the bracelet. 2:52
Finishing & buildpositive: Finds a fine level of finishing throughout the case, mixing polished and brushed surfaces. 2:52
Bracelet & strappositive: Notes the bracelet end link extends from the lugs, adding to perceived length. 4:20
Likes the clasp's on-the-fly micro-adjustment. 4:20
Prefers the colour-matched leather straps for styling, despite usually favouring bracelets. 4:48
Dialpositive: Praises the orange seconds hand, which stands out against the dial. 5:47
Finds the dial text well balanced and the date legible. 5:47
Calls the white and sky blue version the most striking variant. 6:16
Finds all colourways fantastic, with a favourite in white and light blue. 9:41
Movementpositive: Believes the proprietary calibre greatly improves the watch's appeal at this price. 7:44
Highlights a power reserve that exceeds key rivals. 8:13
Finds the movement visually appealing and game-changing for the brand. 8:43
Versatilitypositive: Feels the 100m water resistance supports daily wear. 3:21
Designpositive: Feels the design upholds what makes Breitling beloved. 10:10
Ranks these among the best Breitlings in years. 10:38
Valuepositive: Places the pricing competitively among Grand Seiko, Omega, Rolex and IWC. 10:10
Feels the pricing and looks meet expectations for the brand. 11:06

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Fratello

Breitling Re-Invent The Top Time With The New B31 In-House Movement

Video, 5 minHands-on reviewMar 2025

PositiveRecommends, with caveats

Fratello finds the time-only Top Time B31 a worthy, comfortable, versatile everyday watch with vintage charm and modern refinement. Caveats include purists missing the chronograph, a date cyclops that clutters the dial, an unremarkable movement and pricing that leans on the brand name.

Suits: Buyers wanting a wearable everyday watch mixing vintage charm and modern refinement

What they said, point by point

Case & proportionspositive: Considers the 38mm size a sweet spot between classic and modern proportions. 1:28
Credits the thin case and domed crystal with a sleek look on the wrist. 1:28
Dialmixed: Finds the orange seconds hand a well-judged accent that is not overdone. 2:27
Approves of the minutes-and-seconds rehaut replacing the tachymeter. 2:27
Feels the cyclops-magnified date slightly interrupts the otherwise clean dial. 3:25
Designpositive: Sees the subtly domed crystal as a nod to the 60s that looks refined and streamlined. 2:56
Describes it as a throwback that does not feel dated. 3:25
Wearabilitypositive: Finds it comfortable and balanced thanks to the tapered lugs and thin case. 2:56
Bracelet & strappositive: Praises the bracelet's fit and finish and its toolless micro-adjustment clasp. 2:56
Notes the perforated leather strap leans into a vintage racing aesthetic. 2:56
Movementmixed: Calls the movement solid but not groundbreaking. 3:25
Originalitymixed: Warns the switch to a three-hand format may disappoint purists. 3:25
Concludes it is worthy of the Top Time name despite needing adjustment. 3:54
Valuemixed: Suggests buyers pay more for the name and design than mechanical innovation. 3:54
Notes it is positioned as a lifestyle piece rather than a spec-driven value. 4:24
Versatilitypositive: Views it as a strong everyday choice blending vintage charm and modern refinement. 3:54

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Chisholm Hunter

NEW Breitling Top Time B31 - GAME CHANGER.

Video, 6 minHands-on reviewMar 2025

Very positiveRecommends

Enthusiastic about the new Top Time B31. The reviewer praises its perfect-wearing 38mm size and thinness, the fun but restrained colourways, and the clever dial ring, and sees the in-house three-hand calibre as a game changer. The only quibble is the date position.

What they said, point by point

Case & proportionspositive: Considers the 38mm diameter the perfect size. 0:59
Praises the 10.3mm thickness as beautifully thin. 0:59
Designpositive: Finds the new colour options fun and clean. 1:28
Was more impressed by the electric blue dial in person than in renders. 1:56
Favours the white and blue version as fun without going over the top. 3:52
Dialpositive: Credits the coloured outer seconds ring with keeping the bezel-less dial from looking too big. 2:53
Feels the orange seconds hand works across every colourway and stays legible. 4:21
Would have preferred the date at 6 o'clock rather than 3, but calls it minor. 3:52
Versatilitypositive: Believes the watch can still be worn with formal attire. 1:56
Bracelet & strappositive: Prefers the leather straps over the bracelet, unusually for this reviewer. 4:21
Feels the leather straps match the watch's theme. 4:21
Movementpositive: Excited that the B31 is Breitling's first three-hand calibre. 5:19
Views the movement as evidence of Breitling's innovation. 5:19
Originalitypositive: Sees the design as carrying Breitling's more daring brand character. 1:28

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Adrian Barker

NEW Breitling Top Time + NEW in-house movement.

Video, 7 minHands-on reviewMar 2025

Very positiveRecommends

Sees the new B31-powered Top Time as a gorgeous, vintage-flavoured, pleasingly thin watch whose well-finished, transparently sourced movement is the highlight. Priced favourably against rivals, with minor gripes about the non-screw-down crown, the unnecessary Cyclops and a scratch-prone clasp.

What they said, point by point

Designpositive: Calls the watch gorgeous, while seeing the movement as the bigger story. 2:53
Picks the white dial with baby blue chapter ring on brown leather as a stunning favourite. 5:41
Notes clear vintage cues: domed crystal, orange seconds hand, contrasting chapter ring. 1:26
Case & proportionspositive: Finds the case pleasingly thin once the domed crystal is discounted. 2:23
Appreciates that case thickness has been executed so well, calling it often overlooked. 5:12
Likes the crown size and the absence of crown guards for the vintage feel. 2:53
Bracelet & strappositive: Considers the on-the-fly micro adjustment excellent: simple, cleanly machined, finely segmented. 4:44
Sees the three-link polished-centre bracelet as sporty and modernising. 1:55
Worries the raised polished section on the clasp will scratch easily, though likes the clasp overall. 4:44
Movementpositive: Views the new calibre as the main highlight of the watch. 2:53
Welcomes Breitling's transparency about supplier-made components and assembly. 0:00
Impressed by the extent of durability testing. ~4:16
Finishing & buildpositive: Finds the movement decoration, including Geneva stripes and perlage, surprisingly good for the price. 3:21
Notes clean machining on the clasp extension system. 5:12
Functionalitymixed: Lists the lack of a screw-down crown as the first con. 4:44
Thinks the Cyclops fits the design but is functionally unnecessary given the date window size. 4:44
Valuepositive: Acknowledges it's a lot of money but thinks it compares well with the market. 4:44
Compared with: IWC Spitfire: Named as an alternative; the Top Time sits favourably on price.
Omega Aqua Terra 38mm: Named as an alternative; the Top Time sits favourably on price.
Rolex Explorer: Named as an alternative; the Top Time sits favourably on price.

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Specifications

Reference: AB3113A71C2X1
Case: 38mm, stainless steel
Thickness: 10.31mm
Lug to lug: 45.8mm
Movement: Breitling Calibre B31 (COSC; made with Sellita/AMT) (automatic)
Power reserve: 78 hours
Water resistance: 100m
Crystal: cambered sapphire, anti-reflective both sides; sapphire display caseback
Bracelet or strap: blue perforated calfskin rally strap with pin buckle, 20mm tapering to 18mm (steel bracelet with folding clasp also offered)
Announced: March 2025
List price (US): $5,600US launch price $5,600 on leather strap / $5,900 on steel bracelet (Time+Tide, June 2025

Creator Consensus is built only from what reviewers said. Prices, retailers and any commercial relationship never affect it. How consensus works