The Breitling Watch Source Forums

I am now in the position that I can finally buy my first Breitling, which I am very pleased about.

However, as with all such decisions, the more I have looked into things, the more confused I have become. Basically I have three choices: Montbrillant 01 with brown strap or a Navitimer 01 with black croc strap, or a vintage Navitimer.

I had really wanted the Montbrilant and not having the largest wrists I thought that it was nice as it wasn't too big. However I tried the Navitimer 01 and it wasn't actually that huge.

The Montbrillant in my eyes is slightly more understated and I like it because if that, but equally I quite like the fact that non-watch lovers will notice the Navi more. I wonder whether the oversize watches will stand the test of time as much as the smaller, and therefore will the Navi 01 age badly?

I'll probably only be able to make one purchase like this in my life and so I want something that will really stand the test of time!

And then there's the vintage option. I like the idea of an investment, but getting a mint one is key I guess.

Any thoughts from you knowledgeable types will be much appreciated!

Thanks in advance.

Navitimer 01 with black croc strap.
Or Navitimer World if you want a larger watch (46mm).

My suggestion is to go into a authorised dealer and try a few on and see what you like. Then go away and think about it a bit and then go back and buy on the 2nd or 3rd visit.

Personally I'd go the Navi 01... beautiful watch.

I own the Montbrillant 01 LE (on a blue calf strap with deployant clasp) and a couple of Navitimers and Cosmonautes. In my opinion, the big drawback of the Navitimer 01 is that it looks like most other Navitimers while the Montbrillant 01 has a more distinct look. If you are considering vintage Navitimers as well, I suggest you to have a closer look at the Navitimer 50th Anniversary Edition on a steel bracelet (no understatement there), which has most of the features of vintage Navitimers but all of the benefits of a modern watch (flat crystal, etc.).

Vintage Cosmonaute, but I'm biased.

I must admit I've developed a bit of a crush on the Transocean recently... The basic automatic one on a brown strap with a silver face, I've been looking for a cheap watch that looks similar to overcome the desire, but I keep being drawn back to the real thing!

BTW I wear my '60s Cosmonaute a hell of a lot, is that a good idea?

M.

Navitimer 50th Anniversary Edition on a steel bracelet is really perfect, Navitimer 01 with black croc strap is also a good choice.

Of course it's a good idea. Watches were made to be worn. I wear 50 and 60 year old watches most days. You just need to be careful because they're even less water- proof now.