The Breitling Watch Source Forums

I currently have a Colt Quartz II and have the opportunity to purchase a 2003 Blackbird at a great price. The local seller is willing to come with me to any dealer to have it authenticated.

However I called one of the ADs nearby who they said they will need to send it to Breitling for the authentication. Do they always have to send the watch out?

For you guys who don't buy new, how do you get yours authenticated?

Thanks.

Welcome aboard. Many times a local AD might tell you that just because they wouldn't be making any money on the transaction. It's a good idea to take a bunch of nice big pictures and post them here for help from the other members. Pictures of supporting materials as well is preferable, cerificate, warranty card etc.

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Coincidentally enough, the watch is in San Diego, I'm in OC and the dealer I called is in Carlsbad.

I'm in the process of trying to acquire more photos.

Well if you are looking to authenticate at a dealer, there is a bunch to choose from in San Diego. Best bet is to go in and show them the watch and ask them how much it would be to send to Breitling to have it cleaned/serviced. If it's fake they'll laugh at you

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It doesn't look fake at all but better safe than sorry. That's a pretty good tactic though

Momma didn't raise no fool

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Guess he doesn't want to sell to me because I'm asking a couple of questions

The ad says he's willing to meet at a store for verification. I emailed with my offer, provided that everything is as described. He agrees on the price "if I take it tonight".

I ask for more pics and if he has the box and COSC cert before I make the 1.5 hour drive, and to meet at an AD and receive a reply that sale is pending. The ad is still current on "the list".

Maybe it was too good to be true

Yes, I strongly recommend you walk away from that one.

We have a group buy rate going if you are interested in buying new

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If it looks like it, then it probably is. Wise choice to walk away.

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Driver8

Site Moderator

I would probably pass on it also. I would spend a lil more to ensure that the piece is real and for peace of mind you know?

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Breitling for Bentley Motors
Breitling Navitimer World
Breitling Super Avenger Black Steel LE 3000
Breitling for Bentley GMT Midnight Carbon Black Steel LE 1000
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"You gotta pay to play..."

There will almost always come another chance. Good luck!

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Collection: http://s540.photobucket.com/albums/gg32 ... mview=grid

There seem to be quite a few blackbirds around on the secondary market now, more so the original design, but as others have said there'll be another one coming along soon that won't cause you so many doubts.

As stated, if he's shady about it, then move on.

Blackbirds for the most part are some of the easiest reps to spot. If you do decide to meet the guy, study some pictures of real ones before you go.

BB reps are notorious for having TERRIBLE bezel pearls. Also, I'm assuming your familiar with the super lume on Breitlings. Hold it under a light for 5 seconds then cup your hand around the dial to see if it glows, if there's any question then walk away.

Also, the big date wheels on these are misaligned 90% of the time. If it's not perfect, then it's not real. There is a night and day difference between the feel of the A7750 vs. a genuine breitling movement when you wind the watch and press the chrono buttons.

Overall, the BB is one of the easiest watches to identify as being a replica. If you decide to make the drive and check out the deal then feel free to PM me and I'll provide you with my cell phone number and can help explain how to the tell the differences in more detail, as well as a few more easy to identify flaws that should help you feel more comfortable about making the purchase.

Thanks for all the input guys. I didn't bother to make the drive. The good thing that came out of this is that I'm now free to dream about/save up for the current Blackbird. But then again if a nice B2 came my way I'll be all over it too.

We all know the feeling - all these choices...

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Collection: http://s540.photobucket.com/albums/gg32 ... mview=grid