The Breitling Watch Source Forums

I purhcased my Breitling about 10 years ago for around 1200 pounds stirling. Every two years I have had to change the battery. Obviously, as you will appreciate I have had to send my watch away to get this done. Two weeks ago I took my watch to my local jewlers who sent it to Breitling. After 2 weeks I got a phone call saying that not only do I need a new battery, but i also require one or 2 other bits and pieces (I can't recall exactly what) the price they were qouting for this work was over 300 pounds stirling.

Is this normal for Breitling watches? I really find it hard to believe it is. I have looked after the watch and would have expected it to last for at least another 10 years before it needed any major work doing to it. I asked Breitling to simply fit a new battery but they have refused so I have asked for them to send the watch back.

Can anyone advise if the above is normal?

Cheers

tom

Most quartz watches need to be serviced every once in a while, once in ten years isn't too bad, but at 300 pounds i think you're better off buying a new one! Isn't much more than that to buy a brand new Colt Quartz with the low US dollar these days!

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Have a look at this http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll? ... 0177311674 listing. One of the pics is a service invoice from Breitling UK. Granted it's not a Quartz watch, but it gives an idea of what goes on during a full overhaul.

What part do they need to replace, and which model is it?

Unfortunately this is normal.
Whenever a (good) watch needs work done that requires more than a battery, they will do a complete service.
Meaning they will not do a partial repair, especially if it has never been done before in 10 years!
What will happen is, that if they now would only replace a crown, or whatever it absolutely needs, and the watch will stop 9 months from now (because of a reason different than that) you will blame it on them....
Even though the watch didn't stop because they replaced the crown, you're going to say that the "watch ran fine for 10 years, and now after they worked on it, it stopped". To rule out this possibilty they will not take the risk and do a complete service that they can warranty.
The cost is so high because the profession of watchmaker is becoming a rarety, and the education, and work is very intensive. It's not like a car that can be oil-changed by pretty much anybody, and done in half an hour! It involves much more than that!
Sorry, don't take this personal, I'm typing in general meaning!

Respectfully,
Vanessa

Sounds like it's time to sell and replace with a reliable automatic piece!

~Brian

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Breitling Super Avenger
Fortis Flieger Chronograph
Rolex Submariner Date

Yes, but also automatic watches need service every now and then. I personally don't believe you have to send them for service every 24 months (as the AD recommends), but when there's a feeling that service is needed, I don't mind sending it and have it completely serviced. I think the price is reasonable too, even if it is expensive. I appreciate the craftmanship Watchmakeress is talking about...

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

Thanks for your comments everyone, looks like I'm going to have to fork out the money. Best get saving!

Cheers

Tom