The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Hey guys,

I found what seems to be a pretty attractive watch in my girlfriend's grandparents' basement. They said I could have it, so I was wondering if anyone could tell me about this watch like when it was made or other specifics. Also, where might I get this restored?

Photos are in the album below.
http://imgur.com/a/cHU9b

Well, I think you should go and thank them very much my friend as you have happened upon a very rare piece. An AOPA Wakmann with a valjoux 72 movement dating to the mid 60's that looks to be in fine shape. I would not operate this watch however since it is as you say been sitting for an undisclosed timeframe. The oils turn to almost a glue after years and just winding can cause damage. It is most definitely worth getting restored to operating condition.
PM member ChronoDeco. He is the in house watchmaker that the major collectors here use and is extremely gifted in bringing pieces like this back to life. Search some of the threads to see before and after photos of his work. Seeing is believing and he is far more reasonable than anyone you will find elsewhere I promise. Your a lucky man!

Welcome to the site.
Wayne

very nice and rare find, congratulations.
excellent advice from Wayne.

Very Nice and rare AOPA Wakmann Chrono!!

Here are some pics of Craigs [Chronodeco] work on a AOPA ref 806 Breitling he did for me.

Before:



After:

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"A man with one watch knows what time it is; a man with two watches is never quite sure."

If I were to send this to Craig and ask for a full restore, what sort of value do you guys think this thing would bring?

And where do you think the return on investment would start to see diminishing returns? Like, after what level of restoration would the money invested to restore not be recouped in a sale?

Thanks kindly

Let me just put it this way.... You got it for free. You will invest an small amount, Craig will answer those question and not us but it not going to break the bank at ALL. It will be more the worth the investment and you will never lose the money, EVER. This is a no-brainer my friend.

Best,
Wayne

I would also check with your girlfriend's grandparents that they are OK with you potentially selling it. That's a pretty spectacular gift and they might not be thrilled if you just turn it into cash.

if you decide to sell it, servicing it is most probably not commercially viable. watch is in decent shape cosmetically and should be an easy sale.

We could read about you in the obituary column.

Wayne

Not sure I know what you mean. Are you saying, if im just selling it then dont service it?

you will most probably not recoup the money you invest in servicing it.

clear ?

Seriously? Why is that?

Does anyone else agree?

Everyone will agree.

You won't add $x to the value by spending $x on servicing, you will add $x less something.

Where can I get an accurate appraisal?

Am I the only one who is starting to feel uncomfortable with this thread?