The Breitling Watch Source Forums

I read the following post on another forum and was wondering if anyone around here knows if, in relation to Breitling, it is at all factual:

Quote:
Rolex and Omega are the only two watch companies, to my knowledge, that hold parts for vintage watches and have restoration centres for them. Breitling, while offering a very good service on their modern watches, don't really give a fig about their older models and can't help with restoration or parts.
Unquote.

Does Breitling hold parts for, and/or provide restoration services for, it's "vintage" (i.e. 30+ y/o) models?

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If you ain't the lead dog, the view never changes...

Your basic Breitling service centers do not. Do not quote me on that, but that is just from my experience. There is, however, a Breitling approved vintage service center. I think we only had to send a watch to them once for a customer. Why once? Well, they are very expensive and take a VERY long time. I do not believe the actually have the parts from early days, but rather get them made from Switzerland. I can find out a bit more info tomorrow if you would like.

not necessary, thanks, as I am just curious. I recall a number of years ago getting an Omega Speedy MkII serviced and was amazed that Omega sent it back (from my local service centre, not Switzerland) with a new dial, seals, crystal, hands etc on a 20+ year old watch. That sort of thing makes you feel all warm and fuzzy about a watch brand.

As I hope to become a Breitling owner soon, I'd like to think I could have it restored/refurbished after 20 or so years of faithful service if I wanted to.

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If you ain't the lead dog, the view never changes...

I've no idea about Breitling service outside the UK but BUK refurbished my 35 year old watch beautifully. Took 6 months either because of backlog (they have specific people working on vintage stuff apparently), or sourcing/manufacturing replacement parts but I think one has to pragmatic over the timescale, after all how many other sources will garantee an old timepiece will work/and even look if you wish, as new?. I suspect Breitling are happy to look at any Breitling no matter how old or rare. Price might be a sticking point - it depends why you want the work done i.e. great sentimental value in my case.

Ike

I guess I should move this to vintage, but it's getting more eyeballs here, so what the heck.....

Breitling have factory approved restoration centres, but they aren't factory controlled or supplied. In the US the only approved restorer is Mark Heist at Horological Services in Philadelphia. He currently has a wait list of around a year.

However......

Because most watches use fairly common movements it is relatively easy to source replacement parts, though they may not have originated on a Breitling. Any decent watchmaker can do a clean / restore / overhaul in this manner relatively easily.

Mark is definitely the place to go in North America for anything rare or unusual - you'll wait, you'll pay, but you'll get amazing results. The man manufactures his own parts if he can't source them!!