The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Hello, new to the forum. My wife wants to buy me a Brietling for our anniversary. I visited an AD, found this forum and have a few questions. I like the GMT line and Quartz models. I tend to prefer the looks of the GMT but have not seen one in person. Are there any real differences with the GMT Plus or is it just looks? My AD thought there were some improvements but it appears to be the same movement. I'm not crazy about the bezel but my AD said watches would be moving to that style and the older one can get caught on clothes ... Second, my AD said he can get a GMT. It appears they stopped making them in 2008. Should I be concerned if a watch sat around a couple years? I assume it will need service sooner? Is the warranty good from the day I buy it? Lastly, the quartz models are attractive and good deals. I read a preference for mechanical watches. Are there any real disadvantages with quartz models? Thanks for your replies.

Hi and welcome to the site. The GMT was discontinued in 2008 in favor of the new GMT. You are correct both use the same movement, a mechanical automatic (non-quartz) ETA 2893-2 with the GMT complication allowing you to keep track of time in a second time zone. The styling of the GMT was changed fairly dramatically by discontinuing the bezel rider tabs which is what your AD is speaking of when he comments on the watch not getting caught on your clothes ( not really much of a problem in my experience to be honest with you), enlarging the case size from 40.5mm to 41.3mm and incorporating an integrated bracelet (which may limit your strap choices). Really a total redesign in the watch.

As far as the watch sitting around the AD that is only a concern as far as the oils breaking down over a period of non-use. I don't think two years would cause much concern. Service is usually recommended about every 4-5 years unless the watch starts running outside of COSC specifications or perhaps you expose it to a marine environment fairly frequently then it will need service to check the seals more often.

The warranty starts at the time of purchase and is good for two years.

It's difficult to say if quartz vs mechanical is better. There are arguments on both sides for and against. Quartz will be more accurate and is more robust in regard to physical activity and exposure to things such as magnetism and shock. It will need servicing as well but the big argument against quartz is the future support by Breitling. That is, the day will come when the parts are no longer available. If I am not mistaken Breitling is dedicated to provide support for quartz movements for 20 years. As far as mechanical automatic movements they will last a very long time (100's of years if properly maintained) and parts should reamain available.

I would strongly recomemend going to the AD and trying on several models. I cannot tell you the number of times I have gone to an AD with a particular watch in mind and walked out with something entirely different. Don't rush your decision and best of luck.

Elwyn

I think your best advice is to go back with an open mind after some reviewing the forum to see what feels right or what speaks to me.

MJ,
For what it's worth, the GMT+ spoke to me last week and it was a complete spur of the moment decision. I did absolutely no research on Breitling and was convinced that Tag Huer was what I wanted. The Carrera GMT was what I was ready to buy. When the clerk suggested Breitling I saw the GMT+ and it was over. I got the Tungsten face which I'm calling the Chameleon because it changes colors based on the surroundings. Definitely get what ever you are considering out of the store lights. It will look very different. Also, if you don't know (I didn't) check out the adjustment on the alternate hour hand. It's in hour increments...not smooth.