As far as I know, Breitling originally used Wakmann to market their watches in America and at some point during the 60's they bought Wakmann outright and simply rebranded their watches in America as Wakmann. There was also a transition phase where many watches were signed as Wakmann-Brietling.
I've found many sources for this:
From http://www.classicwristwatch.com/American%20Watches.htm
Quote:
Some classic Swiss houses used different brand names for watches sold in the USA, often those of sister companies with whom they had merged or bought out. Longines are often signed Wittnauer, Breitling are signed Wakmann, Heuer connected with Leonidas and so on. Whilst these are still high quality watches, they command less than the Swiss sold equivalent. This gives the collector on a budget a good opportunity to purchase high quality watches at reasonable prices.
Two Chronographs, One signed Breitling and the Other Wakmann. Apart from the pushers (the Wakmann has screw down pushers) and the signing, both are identical including the movements.. The Breitling signed watch will be worth more than the Wakmann - a chance for a bargain.
Two Chronographs, One signed Breitling and the Other Wakmann. Apart from the pushers (the Wakmann has screw down pushers) and the signing, both are identical including the movements.. The Breitling signed watch will be worth more than the Wakmann - a chance for a bargain.
Heres an example of watches signed by both Breitling and Wakmann:
