The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Hello Breitling experts!

I've posted this on Watchuseek as well, but I thought it would be a good idea to post here as well

Newbie seeking advice, so be gentle. I'm new to the watch collection scene, but I am hoping to kick off my collection with a Breitling Navitimer Pluton 3100, as I am still studying.

I have an upportunity to pick up a Navitimer Pluton 3100 without strap/bracelet from a local private seller for just under $600. Now, the ad is without pictures of the watch and generally lack info on the watch, but as the seller is locally based, my plan was just to pay him a visit.

As I am new to this scene, I'm not too sure what I should look for when inspecting the watch.

- From what I've read, this isn't a watch that has been subject to counterfeiting, but can this be confirmed?
- Also, I've read that the movements used in these watches have all went out of production - should I be concerned about that?
- Of course, the first thing to check is if the watch is in running order, but is it necessary to remove the back piece for inspection?
- If the watch isn't running, and the seller says it is caused by a dead battery, should I stay away from buying it?

Any other thoughts on the watch (and the price of it) are very, very welcome.

Thanks in advance!

Best regards
Rasmus, Denmark

I've always believed the Pluton series of watches to be a great entry level watch. They were made for years starting with the 3100 in the 1980's through the Intruder (late 1990's) with only cosmetic updates. Price ranges can be anywhere from about $450 - $1200 based upon condition, scarcity (as some are limited editions), bracelet, and paperwork and boxes. A couple of different bezel designs were used. No authentic PVD Pluton models. The Miyota movement is relatively trouble free and long lasting. Many different manufacturers used the same movement so finding used donor watches is pretty easy and usually costs little. I bought 20 brand new movements a few weeks ago so they're out there. There are similar watches available that could be redialed to look like a Pluton but I haven't seen any outright fakes. Just do your homework and Google around for good examples before purchasing.

Thank you ever so much for sharing your wisdom!

I will try to dig up all the information I can on this watch prior to a possible purchase.

I've noticed that some quartz Breitlings have screw-on backcases - does this apply to the Pluton as well? And would it be possible for me to remove it when inspecting the watch?

All the Pluton watches have screw on backs but not really much point in inspecting the movement as the only movement that will work is the Miyota so if it's working it's got a good movement. You can pop in a battery quickly though if you have a small screwdriver for the battery retainer clip. The way I look at it is I don't really care whether they run or not since the movement is so easy to find and a not working watch is a better negotiation tool.

That's great!

It seems like this watch is great for a novice like me, as it doesn't seem to be able to contain many traps like wind-ups or automatics!

Just a quick update: I ended up buying the Pluton - a big thanks to the users who've helped me!