The Breitling Watch Source Forums

I am looking at buying this, how does it look? could it be a fake?

Many thanks in advance

Neil

yes it can; 3-hands are widely faked, dial looks a bit too impeccable.
please post inner caseback & movement pic

Thank you Watchfred

ref. 2916 is not documented in the Richter book, but fits the numbering range of similar pieces, serial seems correct, as does the movement marking (fakers get these almost always wrong)

Hi WatchFred,

Thank you, so from that, can i take it that is probably genuine?

most probably yes, although the dial still looks almost too good to be true, the logo is totally period correct & fakers and refinishers just don't do it that well.
3-hands are very poorly documented and not my area of expertise, maybe Andy, Paul, Wayne & Rene will chime in too, but I think it is fine.

I am a bit on the fence with this one due to dial conditions. Looks very "Omega redial" as the black looks way to glossy to me and that is how redialers get busted, by using a gloss black when most were more of a satin or flat finish. Glossy is always red flag!

though I'd love to know which of the refinishers has the precisely correct logo die for a mid 50s piece ....
but valid point, Wayne

I would not be against buying if cheap enough. Most 3 handlers like this can be had for a song... Rarer ones are another story. We tend to see this reference often enough.

it's for £575 or best offer, asked to go see it first before an offer is made. Although i have not a clue what to look for, just want to get a feel for the person selling it.

Thanks for your help and guidance.

Got it after a bit of haggling, lovely watch

thanks for your help