The Breitling Watch Source Forums

First post, and first Breitling for me. I have been researching the 806 for the past three years, while looking for a good entry point on an original piece. I generally own rolex for their value, but have always loved 806 and 809's. I'm pleased to say that I just picked up a 1967 Navitimer, with what I believe to be some interesting provenance.

I will admit that I still prefer the earlier model with all black sub-dials (and will probably sell/trade into it), but had a chance to bid and win this watch at the Antiquorum auction in NYC this past week. I believe that everything looks original, but am anxious to get feedback from the experts on whether there were any swaps done at servicing or mismatched parts. As far as I can tell, everything looks to be original. There is spotting around the white of the slide rule, the caseback while engraved still has the 806, the crown has the B logo. I don't think the dial was retouched with lume or the like, but that is my only concern.

You will note the name on the caseback. As I sit here drinking some of Kentucky's finest Pappy Van Winkle in honor of a Kentucky Gentleman I've never met, wearing a watch with the engraving Lou. I found the man who was gifted this watch in 1969. Richard W Rademaker is the author of the book, "Aim High: the story of my life". From a few searches, I know he was a pilot, kentucky resident and WW2 veteran. I have already ordered a copy of his book on amazon.

My GMT Master II is frowning on table as I write this. If this story doesn't make you fall in love with everything that is being a watch collector, than your a jerk. Pics attached, please give me some feedback. Thanks in advance, and happy hunting!

Best,

Aaron

Congrats, that looks a beauty and with great provenance. Is that a Gold Plated or SS 806? Beautiful either way. The lume looks original but for verifiying authenticity post detailed pics including that of the movement in the vintage Breitling section viewforum.php?f=11. Enjoy the beauty!

Well done, looks like a very nice piece, 806's are one of the all time classics, atleast in my eye !!

Thanks cruvon. It is gold plated. I will post some movement pics shortly. To clarify the Lou is Louisville Kentucky. Does the gold played Aopa demand a premium over the ss aopa?

Cheers, looking forward to the pics. No, no premium over the SS AOPA I think, unless its 18k gold maybe. The SS 806s are more thorougly documented http://www.watchlife.com/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=144 but guess will have a lot of characteristcs similar with your one.

congrats and sibling greetings from Vienna; wear it in health !

A true beauty, congratulations

_________________
Regards

Steve

Congrats on the pick-up, that is one of my favorite vintage breitlings of all time!

She looks nice !
Congrats.

Brother indeed Fred! Thanks everyone.

Over the next year, I plan to trade up/into a first generation, with black sub-dials. Is it reasonable to consider an even trade for an earlier model or should I expect a difference in values?

Also, I found it interesting that the 30min sub-dial is a jumping hand. There is a very small lip on the case, with micro adj screwdriver should I be able to take a movement shot. Or should I stop at my watchmaker?

Best,

AM

806 values vary considerably based on condition - you can even trade for an earlier one, but condition may not be as good. Please don't try and open the case without a case opener, a watchmaker will be happy to assist you.

Very nice

Thanks Roff, I figured as much. I limit my watchmaking skills to switching straps and cleaning cases . I also feel obligated to thank you for your years of posting on Navitimers. Your wealth of knowledge, and postings were crucial in my search. Sadly, I think this 806 is short lived for me. I bought it right, and have my heart set on an earlier model.