Celebrating the Anniversary of Abarth Records
Abarth is celebrating the 65th anniversary of two unique world records set by the Abarth 1000 Monoposto model. Instead of releasing a limited series of cars, the brand, in collaboration with watch manufacturer Breil, has introduced a special chronograph, limited to 465 pieces. The price is 399 euros, making it more affordable compared to other automotive-inspired watches.
Historical Achievements of Carlo Abarth
On October 20, 1965, the company’s founder, Carlo Abarth, set world records in the quarter-mile and 500-meter distances at the wheel of the special Abarth 1000 Monoposto Record car. This single-seater vehicle was developed based on the Formula 2 of that time and was equipped with a 982 cm³ engine that produced 105 hp at 8800 rpm. The car’s weight was only 500 kg, and to increase the chances of success, Carlo Abarth specifically lost 30 kg before the attempt.
Record Details on the Track
During tests at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza, Abarth recorded a time of 13.62 seconds in the quarter-mile and 15.38 seconds in the 500 meters in the G-class engine category. The next day, the car was equipped with a more powerful 2.0-liter engine producing 216 hp, which allowed for new records to be set: 11.55 seconds in the quarter-mile and 13.37 seconds in the 500 meters in the E category.
Legacy and Modernity
Today, this car is part of the Heritage Hub museum in Turin, Italy. Brand fans can honor its memory with the new watch, although the visual similarities between the car and the accessory are limited.
Watch Features
The Breil Abarth 1000 model has a case made of black stainless steel, combined with forged and traditional carbon fiber. The Start and Stop buttons are located at the 2 and 4 o’clock positions, and the skeletonized titanium hands are coated with a luminescent layer. The front is made of sapphire crystal, and the back features the serial number and the inscription “1965-2025, Abarth 1000, 60 anni di storia”.
This project demonstrates how automotive history can find new forms in high-quality accessories. The limited edition and attention to detail make the watch not only a symbol of past achievements but also a modern collectible item for those who appreciate engineering heritage and innovation.