The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Hey all,

First post on the forum! I searched around a little to figure out exactly what I have here but couldn’t turn up any definitive answers. I just graduated from college and received this beautiful piece from my family. I’ve been slowly forming a nice little collection over the last few years; however, this is my first Breitling. Anyway, I was hoping to get a little more information on the watch.

Thanks,
Nick

Welcome to the forum! Unfortunately I don't think this watch ever started life as a Breitling. The dial looks like a redo, which is the first clue to check closer, and the back doesn't have any serial or reference number which is unusual for the style/age of the watch. Can't say with 100% certainty until we see the movement. But, since the watch was a gift, you have a special reason to keep it anyway and it's really the thought that counts, right?

I'm wearing a 1945 178 at the moment,and I'd agree with Vintage regarding the dial,not genuine Breitling script imo, also the serial on mine is fairly deep set and not something that could be polished out too easily,especially if your only getting rid of surface swirls or scratches.

I agree.

The caseback is definitely non Breitling. Would like to see some movement pics to be sure on the rest.

Thanks for the quick replies. I will get some movement pictures ASAP and go from there.

Absolutely it's the thought that counts, I'd just hate to think about my cousin being lied to every time I see my watch.

Ok, seemingly good news. Just got back from my jeweler and it looks pretty promising, here are a couple pictures. We were able to read the repair dates under the scope. You can just make out the scribbles on on the right side of the caseback.

-6/20/1954
-6/10/1957
-10/14/1963 R.V.S.
-3/12/1964 E.V.

As I suspected, the script Breitling on both the movement bridge and the inside of the case back aren't original and have been added. The watchmaker service dates were probably there for many years and before the alteration to a 'Breitling.' Without a doubt a copy meant to deceive.

WOW! Well it certainly did a good job of deceiving, had me going for sure.

Anyway else confirm?

I would estimate the watch does date to the late 1940's or early 1950's but the serial number inside the case back, if it were a valid Breitling, would indicate the watch dated sometime in the 1930's.

Hmm, any possibility the caseback was just snagged from an earlier Breitling?

No.

The movement has also been engraved after the fact - it's an out and out fake.

Yea the hands are definitely from the 30's...

reminiscent of the same hands on the one button pusher chrono. The snail dial I might add too also period correct but yes unfortunately looks like a put together piece.

Sorry.

_________________
"I don't got the bright watch I got the right watch" -Jay Z