The Breitling Watch Source Forums

I have a Colt (A17035) that was just overhauled. The hands were replaced but they weren't replaced with the same style of hands that were originally on the watch. Attached is a picture of the hands before they were replaced. Now the hands look like the picture in the Breitling Models section for the Colt Automatic (Early.) I don't particularly care for the old style hands. An AD did the overhaul. The manager was telling me that their horologist provides a code to order the proper hands for the watch. I don't see why they wouldn't order the same style hands that were on the watch. Anyway, if I had sent the watch to BUSA, would BUSA have replaced the hands with the same type as the original hands that were on the watch or would they have gone with the old style hands? Thanks.

They generally use the current style of hands. You may be able to specifically request the original at the time of service, but it depends on whether they still have them available.

Interesting. I requested that they change the hands because the luminescent material in the hands had deteriorated. However, I thought they would have replaced the hands with the same style I had in the watch. Now the watch doesn't look like my watch. I'm disappointed.

Got a call from the AD and the manager told me that they have my old watch hands. The horologist told the manager that he could put the old hands back on and apply (paint) luminescent material on the hands. How does this sound to you guys?

Hands are designed to be single use. They're friction fit and don't fit as well when reapplied - there is an increased chance of the m falling off if the watch get's knocked.

Thank you for your assistance. I decided to go with the old style hands. I'm sure they'll grow on me.