The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Hi Folks,

Im looking at a vintage Navitimer 816 at the moment (on eBay UK)

Ive talked to the owner who tells me its an inherited piece dated to 1970 and already authenticated by BUK.

When I asked about service history he said there's none, and there are no markings under the case back to indicate that its ever been serviced.

He also indicated that BUK have told him that a full service would take 12 months

This would be my first vintage piece, so my questions to you guys are

1. Is this a typical service window for the older Brielting pieces?
2. Do vintage pieces attract a significant cost associated with servicing (assuming minimal new parts, just the strip, clean, assemble, polish sort of thing)
3. Any recommendations on a non BUK watchmaker who could take this on (if I proceed with purchase)
4. Do you have to "baby" vintage pieces? Im a buy to wear kind of guy

Im a bit reluctant to drop cash on something that I potentially wont see for a year and then have to pay loads for a service

Apologies in advance if these VintLing questions have been asked before!

_________________
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a) First and foremost, find a good vintage watchmaker !
yes, we do know a non BUK watchmaker, Craig (member chronodeco) is the perfect choice, many other members will agree.
PM him to get information about current lead times, but you can safely assume it will be well below the 12 month period BUK has.
Have heard good things about some UK watchmakers, but have no personal experience.

b) Do vintage pieces attract a significant cost associated with servicing (assuming minimal new parts, just the strip, clean, assemble, polish sort of thing)
Will not talk about Craigs prices, he will be happy to quote you, but I have always been pleasantly surprised; costs are far less than Breitling servicing costsfor current pieces.


c. Do you have to "baby" vintage pieces?
Depends on the watch, of course, but the 816 is quite a sturdy watch, both the Venus 178 or the Valjoux 72 movements are great daily wearers, as long as you keep them away from too much water (as you would with any vintage watch).

vintage!

Just send it to Craig, get it back quicker than BUK and for less than BUK would charge and then go "wow" and enjoy.