The Breitling Watch Source Forums

I've never owned a very nice watch, but I've always been a big fan of Breitlings, especially the Navitimer series. I've decided my birthday present to myself this year should be a watch.

I'd like something versatile enough for wearing daily, or when dressing up (perhaps by swapping the strap/bracelet?). My wrist is fairly small, so I think anything bigger than a Navitimer or Montbrillant might be too big. I'm 27 and want something that will last me many years, possibly as my only watch.

Would a Navitimer or Montbrillant fit this criteria or am I way off base?

Thanks.

Welcome to BreitlingSource!

Navitimer is a very versatile watch and Breitling's 'classic' look, just be aware that the range (including the Montbrillant) is not particularly rugged so won't be the best sporty watch - in particular the water resistance isn't great.

If that's not an issue then go for it - it looks right at home with work clothes, but also carries a casual look very well. Are you thinking of the new in house version?

I certainly don't plan on wearing it to the beach/pool/hiking/etc, but how vulnerable is it water from day-to-day use, like splashes from washing your hands or heavy rain?

In general what happens if you get a Navitimer wet? Obviously there are no electronic circuits to fry, but I imagine you'd at least want to dry it out immediately to prevent rust, etc. Would it be permanently ruined? Would you need send it in for servicing?

By "in house version" do you mean the Navitimer Caliber 01? Are these hard to get ahold of? I do like the transparent back.

Thanks.

You hit the nail on the head with looking at the Navi. As a first and primary watch there really could not be a better option in my opinion. As Roff said the WR is not good, but that doesn't make much difference to me.

Whether it is work or weekend the Navi is right at home. Nothing against the Monty, but to mee a black dial silver sub Navi is THE Breitling, and that is a good place to start.

Right now there are several nice pics of Sasho and Helderberg's Navi's in the gallery, and it would be worth your time to take a look

They'll be fine in the rain or getting splashed, but not for showering. If it gets water in it then it needs to get immediate Breitling attention as it can cause serious and permanent damage. There's no need to worry about it for day to day wear, just something to consider.

The new Navitimer 01 is in house, and there is a Montbrillant version as well. The display back versions are limited editions, but the regular ones with the solid caseback should be available after next month's Basel fair. The display back versions aren't sold out, but don't leave it another 6 months.

I got my first Breitling as a Christmas present last year. I chose the Navitimer Olympus (not the Montbrilliant) and got it from an AD here in the UK. I love it. As others have said, keep it out of the water. You won't be disappointed if this is the route you choose.

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Rolex Submariner
Navitimer Olympus

I recently bought my first Breitling and have to say the guys here really know their stuff and were helpful. I bought a Navi World and its amazing. Very big but I a have very large wrists to fill. And the strap options make it so versatile.

Best of luck and be sure to let us know what you pick!

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Navitimer World - White Dial

I was leaning towards a steel bracelet but now I'm wondering if it's too flashy for wearing daily.

Also, how difficult is it to swap between bracelet and strap? Is it something I could do on a weekly basis for daily use (strap) vs. a night out (bracelet)?

Perhaps I should start with the strap and upgrade to a bracelet later?

What's the deal with serial numbers on bracelets and cases? If you buy a new watch are they supposed to have serial numbers that match, or does it not make a difference if I buy the body (is there a better name for the watch without the strap/bracelet?) and bracelet separate?

Thanks for all your help so far!

I thought I saw somewhere the Navitimer was water resistant to 15m?

edit: this post http://navitimer.proboards.com/index.cg ... thread=109 claims navitimer is water resistant to 3 bar = 30m = showering is ok = swimming is somewhat risky.

edit 2: sorry, should have searched some more first, I now see 30m doesn't mean 30m constant submersion http://www.breitlingsource.com/articles ... ance.shtml

Regarding the water resistance of the navitimer line I know its 3 bars or 100 feet and that you shouldn't shower with the watch on but is it safe to run it under a faucet for cleaning or should you just avoid water as much as you can?

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Chrono Superocean (Black)
Rolex Datejust II rhodium/ Arabic dial

A faucet on full power could easily hit 3 bar, a slowly running one will be fine.

thanks, I'll just run it at a trickle for the occasional cleaning. I wish the navitimer line were just a bit more water resistant, it would be so much better!

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Chrono Superocean (Black)
Rolex Datejust II rhodium/ Arabic dial