The Breitling Watch Source Forums

So I just came back from a grey market jeweler and im kicking myself because there are a few things I forgot to look for. They only had a few breitlings and I was able to look at the SO Heritage chrono and a Super Avenger. (Which are both great timepieces, but not on my short list for my first ling.)While I tried them on and looked at the engravings just to prove that they were genuine, I didnt even think to look at certain aspects of the watches. I.E. Bezel rotation, chronograph function. I was too caught up in my defense while the guy was trying to get me to buy on spot to really concentrate on the piece.

So I figured that I would start a thread and have people say what should be checked on the watch and what to do while at the dealer to ensure a satisfied trip/purchase. Because I know many people definately get caught up in the moment and forget to do at least something before purchase.

So tell me, what are your "Do's and Don'ts" and "What to Check"'s while at your watch dealer.....

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"Don't Touch The Watch." - Patrick Bateman

Check #1 return policy. It's very likely that you will notice things about the watch after you get it home. This usually happens because you'll wind up admiring the watch and depending on the light / angle it will appear differently.

Check #2 after sales support. If they aren't an AD, can they provide a reference to a good one that will help if you have problems? Or are they a well respected for the repairs they perform?

Check the serials, some grey dealers polish them away with future service problems at Breitling.


Jack

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"Don't Touch The Watch." - Patrick Bateman

Check the chrono, check that the crown is functioning properly, check the caseback to make sure there are no scratches (this could be a sign that the watch was opened) seriel number is a HUGE one..make sure it wasn't buffed off, does the watch include all paperwork and boxes, who will service the watch, and what is the warranty time frame? Breitling has a 2 year warranty on purchase from AD's, what will the Grey Market dealer offer?

Good Luck.

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"I don't own any watches, I just lease them"

This used to be a far more prevalent problem than it is nowadays. Authenticwatches used to be a real culprit as far as that went, but they tend not to now. I'd never EVER buy a watch without the serial number in a million years. Breitling won't touch the watch, so any servicing by Breitling is out, and it strips away it's resale value like you wouldn't believe. No serial number makes the watch not much more than a nice paperweight. (OK that's a little harsh, but you know what I mean).

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Driver8

Site Moderator

First Breitling and you are looking on the 'grey' market?

OK best of

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Al

“Quis custodiet ipsos custodes"

Yeah I'm with Alan.

First thing I'd be looking for is whether it's an AD and I am getting a factory warranty.

In terms of the watch specifics, other than inspecting condition and function I try to wear the watch for a few minutes while at the AD just to get a feel for how it wears. I generally put it on and then wear it while I am looking around the store or talking to the staff. They are usually really happy to oblige.

Let me straighten this out.....

I was on my lunch break from work and I decided to go try some on just for fit. I was NOT looking to buy from this place. Never in a million years. I just wanted to see a few in person to get a better feel.

Believe me, I've been lurking this board alot longer than when I signed up. So I will most definately buy from george when the time is right. Especially since its not that long of a drive from NYC.

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"Don't Touch The Watch." - Patrick Bateman

Thanks for explaining (best of luck with your first)

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Al

“Quis custodiet ipsos custodes"

anyone else? What are some things that are a must check before purchase?

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"Don't Touch The Watch." - Patrick Bateman

Honestly, the best strategy is to take a deep breath and relax. It's possible to get just a little too worked up and make bad decisions. The only way to avoid that is to go in armed with information and some minimum expectations. The suggestions as to what to look for here have all been good.

Also, if an AD is making you uncomfortable, then don't buy from them. There are plenty of fish in the sea and there is no reason to feel rushed, forced, or like information is being withheld from you. When you allow yourself to get carried away and make an uninformed decision, it often leads to unsatisfactory results.

Go to an AD that makes you feel comfortable and that should take care of everything.

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“The only reason for time is so that everything doesn't happen at once.” - Albert Einstein

On your first, just as we said go to an AD most in the UK are good and I'm sure the same is true for NY.

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Al

“Quis custodiet ipsos custodes"

Well said good sir