Thoughts on Breitling by Rolex fans

[shalako]

I own 3 x Rolex’s and 2 x Breitling’s, I own a very toolish Chrono Avenger M1 from 2011 and one of the latest Super Chronomat’s. I like my small Rolex collection but get far more enjoyment wearing the Breitling’s to be honest but there are aspects of Breitling which really annoy me currently.
My Breitling Super Chronomat has been back three times now, once as a condition of their 5 x year warranty (read their small print, which is not necessary with Rolex, Tudor or Omega’s 5 year warranty) and twice for time keeping and other issues. I do strongly believe they should spend far less on meaningless celebrity endorsements and a lot more on the quality of their time pieces. My Tudor Black Bay Chrono with essentially the same B01 movement as my Breitling has worked flawlessly for three years at +2 seconds a day and costs half the price of my Super Chronomat which tells you all you need to know.

[GST15]

I purchased both of these watches in 2020. Each came in at just under $3K.
At that price, I think Breitling was a true value. They are workhorse ETA movements and both continue to run at +/-2spd.

At today's prices, I think that there may be better value for the money (thinking of Tudor as an example). Strictly personal opinion, but I like some of the old styles better that the new iterations ie, the SuperOcean.

[ERH]

As far as the Breitling goes, no complaints. I believe that the watch either speaks to you or it doesn't, within the range of choices out there. It's both a price point and a like issue. I have the 42mm Superocean Heritage in blue, on a mesh strap. Wears very well and is very presentable. No regrets. It gets its use, as do the other watches in my collection. It's my go to watches when I cruise.

[Jb1264]

Breitling have responded to feedback on the Endurance Pro by releasing a 38mm version
They should ditch the Compass markings to make it more legible
Align the date at 4.30 so you don’t have to bend your neck to read it
Then I’ll buy one

[returntorolex]

I really enjoy my Breitlings. Better value if purchasing pre-owned.

[johnxyz]

Newbie here,

Could you guys recommend some of the better date ranges and models of the better built Breitings for pre owned consideration -as the general theme here is to buy used.

When did the in-house movements (BO1?) start to appear? Which models have Sellita movements ( so that I can avoid those). I do like the older larger SuperOceans (Steelfish?) and Navitimer, so what to focus on and what to sidestep and avoid for those models. Appreciate any guidance. Thanks.

[Brich436]

Originally Posted by Mystro

Always buy Breitling preowned. Great value for watch after they take a huge hit in depreciation. I had one (Blackbird Chronomat) and it was very nice as it looked good on its oem rubber strap and bracelet. Probably should have kept it as a beater in the mix but I find Omega significantly better in every way and you don’t pay much more to get into an Omega in the pre owned market. Plus Omega’s movements are next level and one of the best out there and reason alone to buy a Omega.

Bottom line:
You can make a very compelling argument, choosing Omega over Rolex or Rolex over Omega, but that can’t be said for Breitling.

What's the Omega beater now? The PO creamsicle?

[cjcarter134]

OP I have 3 Breitling Colt watches. I have an early Colt A17035, a Colt Ocean A17350, and a Colt II A17350. They are great watches and I still wear them in rotation

[HiDive]

I think most makers have at least something that appeals to me as well as probably many that do not. I think my big three favorites are Rolex, Breitling and Omega. These are some of the favorites from my collection.



I have owned several Breitlings over the years from a Seawolf Titanium to a SuperOcean. But this Avenger B01 Chrono is a real favorite that I consider a real keeper.

[Kinnakeet]

Originally Posted by Dave O

My mint green 41mm Navitimer is one of my favorites in my collection. I also own Omega, Tudor and of course Rolex. But this mint green dial with the white sub dials just pops.

A few weeks ago I purchased the same but on the bracelet. Purchased at a Breitling boutique. I really like this watch!!

[sw686blue]

Originally Posted by codecow

I like my B09 chrono, Aerospace is a solid choice, and I’m eyeing the new rainbow Superocean 42.

Yup, looks beautiful!

[MichelleP]

Originally Posted by codecow

I like my B09 chrono, Aerospace is a solid choice, and I’m eyeing the new rainbow Superocean 42.

I traded in my blue Superocean posted above for the new Rainbow. Got the yellow strap. Plan to get the Aquamarine down the road. Straps are only $110

[Exceeder]

Breitlings are sweet. My second favorite brand behind Rolex

[DannyO]

I really like a vintage Top Time from the 1960's or 70's. The limited edition black and white bow tie re issue from 2020-now looks good also.

[CH69]

I would say that they have recently made a lot of changes, launching new designs, in-house movements and upped their marketing. The new designs are a mixed bag for me…and still prefer the old superocean design.

[alphadweller]

I'm a fan. Excellent value, great watches. Been wearing my Seawolf since 2013. I used to have a blue SOH46 on mesh, very nice too but gone eventually.

[HiDive]

I have owned three in the past and currently own one. I only like certain models but that is also true with Rolex and Omega. I think their quality is good and they have a great in-house chrono movement in the B01 which is used by other makers including Tudor.

[nrhiture]

I've had a few vintage Breitling's (2-Navi's) and loved them. I lost interest in the 90's and their designs really didn't speak to me. However, the past several years I have been intrigued by a few reference, the modern Navi, Premier B01, and Super Ocean. I have yet to pull the trigger but when I'm looking to add a new reference at least one of those is on the list but eventually get's pulled off. Hopefully soon though.