The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Hello all,

I once saw a Breitling Top Time with a metal bracelet (see photo) and was wondering if this is indeed something that was ever actually produced by Breitling for this model. (As far as I understand based on looking at the old catalogues, Top Times like this from the 1960s did not come with metal bracelets.)

Anyone know what model this bracelet might have been intended for and where I might be able to buy one?

Thanks!

PS: As long as we're on the topic, I had heard that there was some tariff issue with Swiss watches in the 1960s that prevented companies from Breitling from importing complete watches, so many of the straps were actually made in the USA? I'm sure my dates and facts with this are way off, but I'd be curious where I could find some more authoritative info on this.

Checkout NSA bracelets. They were Produced in 70's and 80's for alot of companys and were used by Breitling. NOS bracelets are available on EBAy.

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"A man with one watch knows what time it is; a man with two watches is never quite sure."

Here an example of mesh bracelet , genuine Breitling from the end of 60s . Just remember the advertising pics of the Cosmonaute . They were also some models for Pult and Datora, see in Richter's book.

I think Rick is right that NSA bracelets were used and some styles are shown in the 1969 catalog that's posted in the "Books" section of this website.

But, I think it might also be possible that retailers acquired bracelets to add to their sales inventory. In other words, Wakmann or Trautmann could have ordered signed bracelets to sell with the Breitling watch heads in their stores. There is nothing wrong in that.

My bottom line, however, is that straps and bracelets are accessories that wear out and it's just fine to go with whatever works for you. It's the watchhead that counts.

Squinky has an EBAY store and is a great source for NOS NSA bracelets. Take a look. He responds quickly to all questions and is very helpful in finding the right bracelet for yor vintage watch.

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"A man with one watch knows what time it is; a man with two watches is never quite sure."