The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Hi Folks,

I am new to the forum, and have very little knowledge when it comes to watches, but I though I would come here to source some advice and expertise and show off my new watch!

I was given a Breitling last year which was given to me by my grandparents. It was in a fairly bad state when I received it, but decided it would be best if got it refurbished. It took over a year to complete with Breitling and I have only just received it back. All the information I know about the watch is from what I have researched online. I have no idea with regards to the age/value of the watch, but would really appreciate it if anyone could provide me with any information. I have included a couple of photos below and look forward to a response.

Regards,

Johnathan.

"transitional" ref. 808 Chronomat; has the serrated bezel but still no "arrow at 12" index, so assume 1960-62.
if you tell us the serial number, we can date the case production date exactly.

has the dial been refinished or even replaced (would make dating the watch w/o serial no. a bit trickier), pics are not too good, but it should have an apllied "B" logo" ?

movement is a Venus V175.

"value" VERY roughly around €/$ 1.5-2k in perfect condition, though asking prices are often quite a bit higher

edit: correction, Gen 1 ref. 808 dials do not have an applied B, only Gen 2

To the OP, I too have this exact same watch that my father had. I'm wanting to get it refurbished but was wondering how much that cost you from Breitling? And it took a year to complete? Any info you could share would be appreciated! I would like to get mine looking like new again.

Please don't have Breitling do the work. The Breitling of today shares nothing with the company that made this watch other than the name, and they have a reputation for ignoring / being ignorant of what the watch should look like originally - they also charge way too much. The OP is fortunate to have a piece that has been sympathetically restored. May independent watchmakers would do a great job with a servicing / restoration based on what you wanted - preserving patina for example. There is a very highly recommended watchmaker here - member chronodeco (Craig) and many threads showing his work.

Thank you for the advice!

Hi All,

Apologies that I have not replied sooner. DRMorris - as Roffensian has already mentioned, don't get Breitling to do it. Apart from taking a year to complete, the cost to complete was almost as much as the watches value! It also had to go back once I received it because they left a small piece of cloth on the face. In my opinion, over priced and the service was awful. I received no documentation either after completion.

JP