Recently purchased this Montbrillant Datora from a respected forum member. It was my first high end watch purchased online, and although I have no evidence to cast doubt, I can't shake the feeling that it could be a fake. I have reviewed all the threads about fake Datoras and this watch doesn't exhibit any of the tells, and the serial number matches the paperwork from a recent service (including embossed Breitling letterhead).
There are three very minor flaws I have found with the watch that could truly just be minor character flaws of a real Breitling. The first is that the "day" doesn't always align perfectly within its display window (I have seen this in photos of other authentic Datoras). And the second is that the top two applied indexes (for 5 minutes and 55 minutes) seem to be at a very slightly different angle - the 5 minute index touches the line for the 12 o'clock sub, and the 55 minute index is probably 0.5mm to the left of the line. I have seen photos of either authentic Datoras that seem to have the same issue also. The third is that there is a flaw in the Datora Monbrillant banner on the caseback. The center-bottom of the banner has a wave pattern instead of a straight cut line, but I have a feeling this is from wear on the caseback either from lots of wrist time or an overzealous polishing by BUSA. You can see this in the photos below.
Here is a link to the FS thread with photos of the watch and the paperwork: http://forums.watchuseek.com/f29/fs-breitling-montbrillant-datora-watch%85just-serviced-breitling-usa-582623.html
The movement is working well, all chronograph functions are perfect and reset properly, the watch is keeping COSC time and the day/date change very close to 12pm. Power reserve is strong. As I said before, other the the minor flaws I have noticed, this watch does not show any of the telltale signs of a fake Datora that I have read from this forum. The serial number, which looks to be laser etched, was polished down quite a bit but is still visible. It also has the production date stamp between the lugs.
The seller is very trusted on many forums, including 100% feedback on eBay for $10,000+ watches. It also has the BUSA paperwork. I am sure I am needlessly worried, but if you Breitling experts could chime in and verify for me it would put my mind at ease.
Thanks in advance!
P.S. The salesmen at Tourneau said it was fake at first, until their watchmaker looked at it. The reason? Simply because the aftermarket strap did not have the signed B clasp.
