The Breitling Watch Source Forums

My Dad passed away earlier this year and in going through his possessions, we came across a 1958 806 Navitimer.

It's non-working so we're looking to get it fully restored.

I'd prefer Canada, of course, and especially within driving distance (I'm in Toronto)

Thanks in advance

May we see photos please?


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What you should have done to it, all depends on the current condition, but what we call "fully restored", is definitely not something we will recommend, a full movement service is more likely.
But as Eric says, let's see some pictures, then you will get the best possible advice.

With respekt to having it serviced, Mark Heist of horologicalservices.com is a good choice, as with a watch like that, you would want to be sure that it's in the best possible hands, but there are obviously others.

Read my article about the Vintage Navitimers here, http://www.kurt-b.com if you want to know more about them, and ask any questions you might have.

Kurt B

Yes as Kurt says photos will help, not only because we are curious to see your heirloom, but also because it will let us know if it needs parts, or just a simple service. A simple service any watchmaker can handle, but if it needs parts- not every watchmaker has them and we may direct you to someone else.


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Sorry for the delay. Couldn't get my camera setup properly so ended up just using my cel.





I'm guessing this band isn't original, and since it's also too small for my wrist, I'll need a new one anyway.





I'd just like to keep it as original as possible, and running.

Yours looks to be in nice condition.

My advice would be to see if Craig at Chronodeco will take it - not sure if he is taking new customers. It should be no issue to send it to the USA if you send it as a "repair and return" on your customs paperwork. Craig has a sensitive hand and will treat it property. I don't know of anyone based in Canada with the right expertise. As Kurt suggests, Mark Heist is a recongnized expert.

When it's done, it belongs on a 22mm black lizard strap (dark brown looks good too with the vintage patination, but originals were black). Vintage or vintage-look ones are easy to find online (eBay etc)

Here is a photo of an 806 that Craig did for me a few years ago, and you can see it was a case of clean, stabilise, and repair, rather than any attempt to make it look like new.



Buddman (fellow Canuck)