The Breitling Watch Source Forums

I have read on the internet (and on this blog) that service intervals are dictated by the breakdown of oils and time, rather than use. So whether you use your watch a few times a month, or everyday, you will need to have it serviced about every 4 to 6 years. My question is that if this is true, and use is not the best indicator of service needs, why do higher beat movements like Zenith require shorter interval periods?

Ben

There are many variables in determining service intervals, and for Breitlings (which are all 4Hz movements these days) the oil breakdown is generally the best indicator of service. With high beat movements there are a number of parts that incur more potential wear - the balance spring being the most obvious, but also a number of wheels and arbors. That faster rate of movement (and potentially increased friction) means that more lubrication is required and therefore the breakdown of oils will noticeable impavct earlier than slower beat movements.

Additionally, the balance spring is stretching and compressing 25% more frequently in an El Primero movement than in a Breitling movement which will lead to the spring needing to be replaced sooner.

Does that also apply to quartz watches like the Aerospace?

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Not really because it's a different approach. 'Regular' 5 - 7 year service intervals will still apply for analogue quartz as they still have an oiled running train, but in most cases it will be every second battery change or so.