The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Hi guys,

Im absolutely new to this forum, but from what i've already seen your community looks amazing!

I am in possess of one very beautiful, in my opinion, and rich in terms of family history watch. From my grandfather who actually gave it to me it should be dated something like early 1940 but from my research i didn't proof to ba able to find exactly the same model around the web.

I'm kindly asking you to share with me some of your expertise regarding these watches and help me if possible to know more about it.

Thank you all in advance!
Ivan

Am a little surprised not to see a model reference on the back, should be ref. 170/178 ?
Movement is a Venus 170.
Dating it to an exact year is tricky, as the lists available just start with 1944, but would assume it is 1942 as I have a Chronomat 769 with a number very close to this which was only introduced in 1942.

Thank you very much!
I guess it should be Venus 170 as it looks very similar to this one: http://www.dorotheum.com/en/auction-det ... graph.html

what can u recommend me for the further touches this watch would need?

"needed touches" are a very personal decision, some people want their vintage watches to look like new, this would require massive restoration work on the case - something I personally would not do.

it "needs" a new crystal (quite urgently ) and a probably a service by a competent watchmaker if the watch has not been worn and serviced for a long time. dial has beautiful patina, PLEASE do not let somebody talk you into "refinishing" it.

I think you'll be surprised how much better the dial will look without that yellowed crystal.

Thank you all for the advices, I appreciate your opinion as it is very similar to mine - I wouldn't touch the case as I'm afraid its going to loose its nice old identity.

Do you know if i have to ask especially for an original Breitling crystal or there is some equivalent on the market?

I also think it should be nice if I can change the crown as well as this is not the original one, can you recommend me any place to look for an authentic old Breitling crowns?

Thanks!

It will be a generic acryllic crystal. Not sure where you are, but we have an exceptional watchmaker here - chronodeco (Craig) who is US based and may be able to service the watch, repalce the crystal and potentially find a crown for you.