The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Having purchased a Skyland Avenger Blacksteel this year, and a Steelfish, I have ended up wearing the Steelfish now all the time, and will sell my Blacksteel. I also have thoughts about selling the Steelfish as well, and maybe getting a Blackbird to replace both. That took me to my AD yesterday, to see the Blackbird and try it on.
They have both the polished and brushed versions. I would likely go with the brushed. The polished, which I saw before, to me left something to be desired, which I couldn't put a finger on the first time I saw it. I realized yesterday that it's the dial. The black dial face is pretty dull, and it works great with the brushed version. However, to me it should be a bit brighter on the polished, sort of like the Steelfish, which has the guilloched effect. I think it looks too washed out on the polished.
Just my opinion, both are wonderful watches. Also on display was an Avenger Seawolf Chrono, the first I have seen. It had a grey dial, which really looked outstanding.
Anyway, as soon as I can lay my hands on a camera, I will post the Blacksteel in the Buy/Sell forum. It really is a wonderful watch, unfortunately comfort is the deciding factor, and I can't justify keeping a watch of that value if it will not be worn. After trying on the Blackbird again, I am tempted just to keep the Steelfish. especially when you consider that there is about a 4 grand difference in price, albeit very justified. The movement, with the large date, and the unique bevelled bracelet really make it a unique piece.
Cheers,
Carl

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'63 Omega Seamaster, 2014 Omega Speedmaster MarkII

"Those who possess a sense of entitlement are seldom satisfied"

I agree with you about the polished and brushed Blackbirds. My AD had both in stock and while I usually prefer polished watches, the Blackbird definitely loses a bit of it's "uniqueness" when it's polished. I also prefer the dial on the brushed verison - i.e. without the rings round the subdials.

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Driver8

Site Moderator

Three words: Chro no mat.

I never noticed the rings around the subdials. Have to take another look. Maybe they are an attempt at giving the dial more sparkle?
Cheers,
Carl

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'63 Omega Seamaster, 2014 Omega Speedmaster MarkII

"Those who possess a sense of entitlement are seldom satisfied"

Clever!

Cheers,
Carl

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'63 Omega Seamaster, 2014 Omega Speedmaster MarkII

"Those who possess a sense of entitlement are seldom satisfied"

i have to say i find the polished version way too blingy/showy..

I know what you mean there I have to agree.

Darren

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"Show me a man with a tattoo and i'll show you a man with an interesting past"

It's easier to maintain than one that has both satin and polish on it. Cape Cod a polished version and you're done

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Carl, as much as you've promoted the Blacbird I really think you deserve to get one. I agree with Driver above - I prefer polished Breitlings but the Blackbird is an exception.

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Collection: http://s540.photobucket.com/albums/gg32 ... mview=grid

I have to agree. That is what I thought before I bought my new brushed Blackbird. A polished Blackbird kind of defeats the purpose, doesn't it?

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Blackbird on Pilot Special
Chronomat Evolution on Pilot
Avenger Skyland on Ocean Racer
SO Steelfish on Ocean Racer

I just picked up my Blackbird today, went with the brushed. I agree what others above have said about the polished version. However, for me the biggest turn off is that the bezel is polished as well. I think the polished version would look alright if it had a brushed bezel like most other polished Breitlings.

Oh Carl, say it isn't so? I thought we were part of that great "Steelfish" owner's club. But seriously, I know how alluring the Blackbird model is since I have also had it on my to get list. Good luck in your decision.

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Never deny anyone hope..........it may be all they have.

Actually, it probably will not be so, at least for the next couple of years. I still find the Steelfish a bit more aesthetically pleasing than even the Blackbird, and I feel very comfortable wearing the Steelfish every day. I also invested in an Ocean Racer strap for the Steelfish, so I now have both that and the Pro II stainless.
When you get into the various makes and models of high end watches, I cannot see any brand or model that really appeals to me as much as the Steelfish. As I said, I love the looks of the Avenger Skyland just about as much, but for me it just is not as comfortable.

Cheers,
Carl

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'63 Omega Seamaster, 2014 Omega Speedmaster MarkII

"Those who possess a sense of entitlement are seldom satisfied"

Gooter,

Are you in Canada? I'm planning to get one either at my local AD in Calgary or other AD in Ontario. Could you mind PM telling me which AD you bought the Blackbird from and the price paid? Thanks.

Fred