The Breitling Watch Source Forums

I have an approximately 20-25 year old B13047. It has been about 5 and a half years since it's last full service, which I think was its third one. It works flawlessly, gaining about 40 seconds a month. Is it mandatory (for the well being of my watch) that I send it in for a full service before it reaches the 7 year mark, or can I wait until it shows some sign of having a problem? I know a few people who rarely if ever have their Breitlings and Rolexes serviced, sometimes for 15-20 years, and they seem to have no problems, but that doesn't mean it is a good idea. More importantly, do I risk a much more expensive service if I wait for a sign of a problem then with regular service?

I expect everyone will say to send it in, but just wanted to check

Thanks

At 5 1/2 years then you are still OK, however, beyond 7 years is starting to push things. In modern watches the service interval is really being driven by the need for the oil to be replaced, and that's driven by the fact that the oil breaks down. That breakdown occurs at a fairly predictable rate and after 7 years or so you aren't going to have much lubrication capability left in the watch. It may still run but there will be additional friction in the movement which could easily lead to more expensive repairs.

Thanks. Kind of figured you might say something like that. Same reason I get oil changes on my car even it it is running fine.