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Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
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Author:  markk [ Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:09 am ]
Post subject:  Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
After extensive online research-- I am trying to decide between the Breitling Galactic II Chrono and the IWC Pilot Chrono. I want the subdials to be big enough so i can see without my glasses. Both of these fit the bill. I have a fairly narrow wrist. I have worn a Breitling Aerospace with Tit bracelet for the last 6 or 7 years.

I like the look of the IWC a bit more-- but it is a bit more money. The issue of ergonomics-- how the IWC feels on the wrist has come up in some of my searches. I have tried both on at different times and different straps vs bracelets --- the later of which was too big so hard for me to directly compare.

Any comments? I realize there may be some bias towards Breitling on this board but I am interested to hear from any with more experience than myself.
Author:  sharkman [ Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:50 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
I have had that IWC. It certainly will be more readable than the 39mm Galactic. The IWC wears as a rather large 42mm, at least the silver dial does. In the end I got a bit bored with the IWC. I guess that is the Breitling guy in me.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Author:  Otto [ Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:28 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
I had an IWC pilot chrono, the 42mm black dial version (ref 3717). It wasn't uncomfortable but it did feel just a little top-heavy on the wrist. I think that was mostly because the standard strap is a bit too thin to be a good match for the head (IMO). Nice watch though, and very versatile.

I believe the new version (3777) has a chunkier strap, but I am yet to try one on.
Author:  markk [ Thu Nov 29, 2012 1:06 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
The IWC I am looking at is the 3777, which is 43mm and the Galactic II Chrono is 44mm.
Author:  P51 [ Thu Nov 29, 2012 2:21 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
If you have a small wrist, then I would really have a try of both watches. You probably already have, but I would have another take. 3/4 ratio of watch face to wrist width is a good guide. I think they may both be too big. My Pilot Chrono is a crazy size and I have large wrists. Its very comfortable and well balanced though.

Jim
Author:  dlNYC [ Thu Nov 29, 2012 2:26 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
I personally would go for the Galactic cause I like the more rugged look of a watch with a rotating bezel. The Breitling also looks more expensive/flashy to the layman if you care about that. The IWC's triple view date annoys me too.
Author:  nickzac [ Thu Nov 29, 2012 5:49 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
Galactic all the way IMO. It's a more exciting watch and the Pilot Bracelet is just sooooo nicely done. Nothing against the IWC but it just doesn't excite me like the chrono 'Lings do.
Author:  Driver8 [ Thu Nov 29, 2012 6:13 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
Yeah but if you go Galactic, then you have to go Buck! :shock: :wink:
Author:  sharkman [ Thu Nov 29, 2012 6:46 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
Otto wrote:
I had an IWC pilot chrono, the 42mm black dial version (ref 3717). It wasn't uncomfortable but it did feel just a little top-heavy on the wrist. I think that was mostly because the standard strap is a bit too thin to be a good match for the head (IMO). Nice watch though, and very versatile.

I believe the new version (3777) has a chunkier strap, but I am yet to try one on.



Well that's a bit different. It's an Evo case and dial with a Buckified compass bezel slapped on. You might want to consider that watch is essentially Breitling slapping together a bunch of left over parts from discontinued models to create another short-lived model. You can still find true Evos out there NOS and some really mint ones pre-owned. Were it me, I'd go that route, but if you like it - go for it. The IWC still bores me. And there is nothing quite as noisy as an IWC modified 7750.
Author:  Kodiak [ Thu Nov 29, 2012 8:19 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
The breitling definitely screams more bling, especially if put on bracelet. The IWC is a little more subdued in that respect. The Galactic Chrono has a little more size, thickness and weight to it. I personally like the all black dial with matching sub-dials on the IWC, helps for readability. The Breitling may come in an all black or all gray dial also.

Bottom line, if you like the more pilot look, the IWC fits that better, especially on leather strap. The Galactic Chrono will be more noticable, with the added bling factor. Both of those pieces are a little large for me, but if I had the choice, would choose the IWC due to design is more up my alley.

Good luck with decision, two great pieces to choose from!
Author:  markk [ Thu Nov 29, 2012 10:29 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
There is the older IW371701-- which is replaced by the 3777 model. The former-- which i have not seen in person is 1mm (43 vs 42mm) smaller. In terms of flash-- that is not a big issue for me. In some respects-- less chance of getting mugged walking down the street :). I actually like the gray dial on the Galactic II and perhaps why that was a bit more attractive than some of the Evo models. But I think the Galactic II and Evo are about the same size.

It seems to me the trend is to make these watches larger and larger -- and I am not sure I get that. I am sure these companies do their marketing to see what people want but that does surprise me.
Author:  Kodiak [ Thu Nov 29, 2012 3:34 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
Here is my 3717 on 7 in. wrist. Strap is non-OEM. (sorry, a little out of focus)

Image
Author:  Scott [ Thu Nov 29, 2012 4:04 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
Terry, don't remember that one, is it new for you, or one you formerly owned?
Author:  Roffensian [ Thu Nov 29, 2012 4:04 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
I think that these are very different watches, I don't really see a comparison. The bezel on the Breitling makes it looks so totally different from the IWC that if you like one then the other probably isn't going to do it for you. Anyone who has been around here for any time will be in no doubt which one I like and which one I dislike.
Author:  Kodiak [ Thu Nov 29, 2012 6:17 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Decision Time Breitling vs IWC
Scott wrote:
Terry, don't remember that one, is it new for you, or one you formerly owned?

New one, month or two ago. I've been going back and forth on the 3717 for a couple of years, finally decided I just need to try it (the 3777 came out and was a little too long in the lugs). Picked up a like new piece from AD with almost full two year warranty. So far I like it :) .

I've had some changes recently in my collection, need to post some updated pics. Still have the Fighters, in fact been wearing it the last couple days.
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