The Breitling Watch Source Forums

H guys,

I went to my local AD to buy a Tag Formula 1 Alarm, but made the mistake of trying on a Colt 44 black face and steel bracelet. The difference in the way the two watches feel was quite remarkable. The Tag felt like toylike in comparison. Even though the Tag is a good quality watch I now want the Colt.

Of course the Breitling is twice the price, and from what I've read online is not even considered a true Breitling by some aficionados. It's a head and heart decision, I just wanted a stylish durable watch for casual wear but am now looking at £2100 for something that don't need. The Tag will be fine, but sometimes fine isn't enough.

Have any of you guys bought the new Colt 44 and any thoughts?

It's not widely liked here, but if you like it that's all that matters. I think you'd get a better price calling one of our forum sponsors though. For what it's worth, my device would be to buy a second hand steelfish and bank the difference.

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Breitling navitimer super constellation LE
Omega Ploprof 1200m
Bremont supermarine
Rolex milgauss GV
Olivant and Botsford 40mm Gold edition

If you like the Colt 44 then go for it, but regardless of what people think of it here it's a design that seems destined to become dated whereas the Steelfish is an iconic Breitling.

I agree with the Steelfish sentiment. If you want the Colt though, go for it. I think one thing we can all agree on is that you dodged a bullet by passing on the Tag.

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-RJ

I am in the minority here and like the Colt 44. I like the build quality, find it solid but not too chunky. I do wish it was an automatic and like it better on a rubber strap over the bracelet. The steelfish (which I also own) is a fantastic watch and probably the last watch I would get rid of. Sometimes things just speak to you and you can't get past that. If the Colt is the one that floats your boat don't worry what others think. I would save my pennies and opt for any new/used Breitling over just about any Tag on the planet...but again it is all personal.

I'd go for an automatic if you are spending the money.

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sco
Breitling Chrono Superocean
Omega Aqua Terra 8500
Rolex Submariner Date Ceramic

The Colt has a bad rep amongst some but I've never understood why other than being the "entry level" watch (it is extremely well finished for an entry level anything). Colts going back have always been extremely rugged and reliable since they were conceived as military watches, and I would guess they are quite a bit tougher than steelfishes which can have issues if dropped etc.

Cal Rypken Jr Choose to wear a Colt on one of his book covers, although he could certainly have afforded other watches I think it was a statement of the characteristics of the Colt -- rugged and reliable. The Colt Auto II and Colt Auto COSC are also great choices if you want an auto.

I would buy the Colt but get it secondhand and save a bunch.

Colt was an iconic Breitling right up to the point that Breitling ruined it by putting a 1980s Tag bezel on top.

I have the black colt 44 on Ocean Racer strap and I like it, however, I am considering selling it to help pay for an Omega Planet Ocean purchase..