Hercules or Skyracer?

MarkJnk · **Posted:** Sun Jan 11, 2009 1:23 pm

Hi guys, I have a few bucks set aside to scratch the itch, and am trying to decide what to scratch it with.

I have an opportunity to buy a used Hurcules at a decent price. I LOVE the contrasting tricompax subs (dark grey dial, white subs), "B" on the chrono hand, added complications of the subdial features and dual chrono hands. I also like the fact that it isn't your typical B'ling. The integrated bracelet doesn't bother me as I prefer bracelets by a huge margin. I might miss the date though.

Would this be a decent choice or would it make sense to buy something more contemporary like the skyracer (for several hundred more)?

Any first hand reviews or comparisons of these two brothers would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Roffensian · **Posted:** Sun Jan 11, 2009 1:34 pm

I came very close to buying a Skyracer last year (got the AS BS instead). I like the watch very much, and find the movement very innovative with the chrono hours and minutes on one subdial. However, it is one of the lower value for money Breitlings in my opinion.

The Hercules is an amazing watch, and given the likely difference in price between the two that would likely be my choice - as you say, it's a unique Breitling.

Sav · **Posted:** Sun Jan 11, 2009 1:44 pm

I have a Hercules, my first Breitling. I've not had much interaction with other Breitlings, but I can tell you about the Hercules, from my own experiences.

It's big. It's heavy. You know you have it on! I love mine because of those two things and wear it every single day. I find it does get noticed and that 99% of people that I've met would gladly wear it too.

Recent pictures of mine here.

RJRJRJ · **Posted:** Sun Jan 11, 2009 2:09 pm

Id go with the Skyracer. It has a very neat movement and a cool bezel. Also the dial is incredible. As Roff said though, its really expensive and probably one of the least bang for your buck lings. It would definitely be my choice.

In2Deep · **Posted:** Sun Jan 11, 2009 2:33 pm

I love the dial detail on the slate skyracer

MarkJnk · **Posted:** Sun Jan 11, 2009 3:32 pm

I was leaning towards the Herc. There was one available locally (for months) so I made the seller a polite offer $150 below his asking. I was reprimanded for "wasting his time"! :shock:

Ok then, being rude to a potential buyer is a great way to make a sale.

So I'll keep looking, and may still end up with the Skyracer. Shopping is the fun part.

Keep the opinions coming. Thanks guys!

Mark

RJRJRJ · **Posted:** Sun Jan 11, 2009 6:18 pm

Have you seen the skyracer is person yet?

BroncoSport · **Posted:** Sun Jan 11, 2009 7:09 pm

I, originally, was going to get the Skyracer as my first Breitling. I studied the catalog every day for 8 months and when I saw it in person, it didn’t disappoint...except for the "business" of the dial. The really have a lot going on in a small space. Now flash forward to today, the Skyracer is still on my maybe list... but then again a really nice used white face Herc wouldn’t be so bad either... hmmmm

I say get em both

MarkJnk · **Posted:** Sun Jan 11, 2009 8:08 pm

RJRJRJ wrote:

Have you seen the skyracer is person yet?

No. But I have the 08 Chronolog which has some great images.

MarkJnk · **Posted:** Sun Jan 11, 2009 8:09 pm

BroncoSport wrote:

I say get em both

Always a possibility :lingsrock:

MarkJnk · **Posted:** Tue Jan 13, 2009 12:45 pm

Looks like I will be getting the Herc. I had a reply to my WTB from a very nice guy. Should have it by the end of the week.

I just couldn't overlook the fact that the Herc had all but one of my "ideal" features in a Breitling. Only thing missing is the applied wings, but these are Gold and done with puffy paint so they almost look applied. And it was +/-$1500 less than a Skyracer.

Everything happens for a reason, the other seller's rudeness has allowed me to find a watch in better condition at a better price, from a Gentleman. Gotta love that.

BoneDoc · **Posted:** Tue Jan 13, 2009 2:39 pm

In2Deep wrote:

I love the dial detail on the slate skyracer

It really does look sharp!

MarkJnk · **Posted:** Tue Jan 13, 2009 2:45 pm

BoneDoc wrote:

In2Deep wrote:

I love the dial detail on the slate skyracer

It really does look sharp!

Stop it! You'll make me buy both. :nono:

BoneDoc · **Posted:** Tue Jan 13, 2009 2:50 pm

MarkJnk wrote:

BoneDoc wrote:

In2Deep wrote:

I love the dial detail on the slate skyracer

It really does look sharp!

Stop it! You'll make me buy both. :nono:

Oh no!! That would be terrible! Have I mentioned I also really like the unique masculinity of the Hercules! :mrgreen:

MarkJnk · **Posted:** Fri Jan 16, 2009 9:23 am

Wow, I just received the Hercules, and am blown away. This is a fantastic watch and I question Breitling's decision to discontinue it.

I'll write a full review with pics over the next few days.

:lingsrock:

The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Hercules or Skyracer?

Who is online

	The Breitling Watch Source Forums Breitling Watch Information Forums, Navitimer, Chronomat