Hello,

I'm still using the search function and learning from other posts, but here's what I'm after:

Note: I'm considering a two-tone Navitimer, but also other watches. No rush to buy.

1. Are there serial numbers that are easily obtainable to find out how new or old a "new" watch is in the store? I know from Rolex you can get an idea of when it was made, and for obvious reasons it is preferable to buy a watch that was made recently rather than made 3 years ago and sat in the display case.
The age of a watch (or rather it's build date) is shown via a set up numbers between the lugs at the "6" end, but they are only visible when you remove the bracelet or strap. For example 2308, signifies the watch was made in the 23rd week of 2008. Likewise 1603 means 16th week of 2003.

2. Are there any specific reasons to not buy a Navitimer? Any particular problems with the model?
The only reason not to buy one IMO is if you want a water resistant watch. Navis are not renowned for their water resistance, and while they are designated at 30m WR, they are really only splash proof. Other than that they are great watches, provided you don't treat it too roughly (it's not a sports watch).

3. Are there any changes to the Navitimer model in recent years that should be taken into consideration? For example, I know with Rolex some models have received a makeover, have solid links rather than hollow, etc. and not many people know about this.
Not in recent years. Bracelets have always been great (no tin-foil Rolex stuff here! ) and the movements have been around for a long time too. All are COSC rated since about 2004-ish.

4. As of summer 2009, what is a typical range for discount % when buying new from authorized dealers?
Depends where you are. US AD's tend to frequent stupidsville and have been known to discount up to 35%, although I guess 25% to 30% is more "normal". UK dealers tend to be far more tight on the discount front. 10% if you ask nicely. It varies across the globe.

Thanks
Aaron

1. Are there serial numbers that are easily obtainable to find out how new or old a "new" watch is in the store? I know from Rolex you can get an idea of when it was made, and for obvious reasons it is preferable to buy a watch that was made recently rather than made 3 years ago and sat in the display case.

2. Are there any specific reasons to not buy a Navitimer? Any particular problems with the model?

3. Are there any changes to the Navitimer model in recent years that should be taken into consideration? For example, I know with Rolex some models have received a makeover, have solid links rather than hollow, etc. and not many people know about this.

4. As of summer 2009, what is a typical range for discount % when buying new from authorized dealers?

Geez you have been touchy about this lately D8!
Would you like me to buy a "stupidsville" discounted watch and ship it to you using our readily insurable post system?
Driver8 BoneDoc

just a quick point on the water resistance as im planning on getting the Breitling Emergency which I think is to 30m - it's my intention that this will be a 'keep on my wrist and dont worry about it watch' Given Driver8 comments about splashproof - should I worry (i'm thinking swimming, showering, snorkelling)

Simon

Nice one Boney!!

Yeah I guess it just peeves me 'cause I don't get that over here! Mind you I honestly do think that 35% makes a total mockery of the RRP. I mean, why bother with an RRP at all if AD's can just discount like that at the drop of a hat? And it dumbs down the brand IMO - when all is said and done, exclusivity is all part of prestige watch ownership. If they all cost the same as a Timex, they'll end up with the status of a Timex.

(Yeah I'm a watch snob, but I'm also a "fed up with being ripped off because of where I live" watch snob too!)

how can they say 30m if I can't keep it on my wrist when I go swimming!

WATER RESISTANT 30M (3 ATM/100 Feet)
Protected in everyday life, bathing, accidental splashes, short swimming or car washing - it is resistant against perspiration, water vapor, rain drops.
It is tested for water resistance up to 3 ATM, and must be able to survive 30 minutes under water at a depth of 1 m (3 feet) followed by 90 seconds under a pressure corresponding to 30 meters.

just a quick point on the water resistance as im planning on getting the Breitling Emergency which I think is to 30m - it's my intention that this will be a 'keep on my wrist and dont worry about it watch' Given Driver8 comments about splashproof - should I worry (i'm thinking swimming, showering, snorkelling)

Simon