The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Hi I'm new to this so please take it easy on my first day.
I came across the this watch while I was in New York but didn’t buy it because I wasn’t sure if it was real or a fake. I have asked Breitling about this Vintage Breitling Top Time 18k Yellow Gold Chronograph Men's Watch. (I have attached some photos) I have asked Breitling about the watch and received there answer shown below. But I’m still not sure the information I have received is correct. I thought the top time watch was a circa late 60’s watch. sources tell me it should be a square watch and Breitling vintage man thinks it’s a 2000 model. So I’m not sure what I have here.

I'm told there are a few of these around for sale but it’s the first time I have come across it. and never seen one except the one in the states so my question is it a genuine Breitling. I would like to purchase this watch if it the real deal and if its available in the UK that's even better. I would value opinions on what this watch is and if it’s a worthwhile item.

Dear Mr Barnett,
I have heard back from our Vintage watchmaker regarding the photographs you forwarded me.
He has advised that based on the images it appears legitimate, and to be a "2000" model Breitling. Please be aware though that he would need to see the case-back and examine the movement to 100% confirm its authenticity. I hope this has been of use to you.
If I can be of any further assistance please do not hesitate in contacting me.

well, the Breitling letter (suprisingly, frankly) is almost right, it is a ref. 2001, ref. 2000 would be a waterproof model w/ round pushers, the ref. 2003 also is not waterproof and has square pushers, but has a different one-piece dial, not a dial ring like this one.

There are many Top Time models from the mid to late 1960s, only some are Tonneau (or square).


looks very, very good, even seems to have the original crown; but, as Breitling wrote, we would need to see a pic of the caseback and, ideally, of the movement. though I am sure it is authentic, I would want to verify it really is one of the rare 18k pieces and not GP.

Fred's nailed it - very nice looking 2001 and if it has a gold caseback then very uncommon!

Hi and thank you for your very usefull information so this is a model 2001 and its a waterproof model? reading the replies do i understand that the case would have normaly been stainless steel? in which case the picture shows a gold case would I be right in assuming this would be 9ckt gold plated.
Thanks

Not really.

Yes, it is a Breitling Top Time ref. 2001
No, this is the non-waterproof Top Time version !
The ref. 2001 was manufactured in three case versions, SS stainless steel, GP gold plated and 18k solid gold

if you post a pic of the caseback, we'll be able to tell if this one is solid gold or plated.