ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX

ShawnK · 20 December 2007, 02:01 PM

Having been spoiled by my Rolex GMT, I find myself in a situation. I want a chronograph, but a Daytona is just out of my price range (at least until the kids move out!).

I've been drawn to the Breitling chronos (Blackbird and Skyracer in particular) and was wondering what the opinion is about their quality. I know they are ETA based, but what about fit, finish and durability?

I'm not necessarily trying to compare with Rolex, since I see the brands in a different category. But Breitling does have several models in the price range I want to spend.

Anyone want to share their experience?

Spencer · 20 December 2007, 04:11 PM

I have a Breitling Crosswind Special, and love it! But if I were in teh market for a more modestly priced Chrono I'd look at IWC.

jordo9998 · 20 December 2007, 04:17 PM

hello,

I own a couple rolex's and a couple breitlings.. this year i bought the breitling for bentley 6.75..

I love breitlings.. I'm going to keep this short and sweet because its late and im sleepy so i will point out the facts between the two.

Rolex does NOT make the best chrono watch.. Buy the daytona because you like the look and not for the chrono.. Rolex makes a great dive watch and breitling is known for their flight watches which is why they make only chronos... it's what they do best... ETA is great, just because they didn't buy every company breitling outsources from like rolex did doesnt make the qulity less.. Rolex is more popular and holds it's value more for several reasons... As for breitling does not.. Some people around here buy rolex's because they are easy to flip after time. anyways, buy a breitling because you like them, not for any other reason.. and breitling is up there with the best of them.. I am nothing but happy with mine. their look and operation is top notch.

hope that helps..

JJ Irani · 20 December 2007, 04:50 PM

Most Rolex owners don't think about Breitling!!!

frostie · 20 December 2007, 10:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JJ Irani

Most Rolex owners don't think about Breitling!!!

lardog · 22 December 2007, 11:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JJ Irani

Most Rolex owners don't think about Breitling!!!

I love the style and quality of Breitling. Most Breitling owners can beat up Rolex owners.

JJ Irani · 22 December 2007, 03:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lardog

I love the style and quality of Breitling. Most Breitling owners can beat up Rolex owners.

Make sure you bring the whole neighbourhood along with you!!

lardog · 22 December 2007, 10:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JJ Irani

Make sure you bring the whole neighbourhood along with you!!

1 man + 1 Breitling + 1 45

Texsubmariner · 20 December 2007, 05:02 PM

Actually, I am thinking of a Breitling Colt GMT. Anyone here familiar with this model?

TARDIS · 20 December 2007, 11:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Texsubmariner

Actually, I am thinking of a Breitling Colt GMT. Anyone here familiar with this model?

They are a nice watch Tex, I had this one for a while.....

Cheers,
Steve

ashu2289 · 21 December 2007, 04:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Texsubmariner

Actually, I am thinking of a Breitling Colt GMT. Anyone here familiar with this model?

I've owned one last year and I must say its a fantastic watch

Incurable · 20 December 2007, 05:02 PM

Were I to get an alternative brand chrono, it'd be an Omega... Pretty good value if bought used. JMHO but most 'lings are way too busy (gauche) for me.

DS/B MINI S · 21 December 2007, 07:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Incurable

Were I to get an alternative brand chrono, it'd be an Omega... Pretty good value if bought used. JMHO but most 'lings are way too busy (gauche) for me.

+1

ShawnK · 21 December 2007, 01:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Incurable

Were I to get an alternative brand chrono, it'd be an Omega... Pretty good value if bought used. JMHO but most 'lings are way too busy (gauche) for me.

I'm also looking at a Speedmaster Pro. It's a classic that never seems to go out of style. I had the smaller "reduced" version that I enjoyed wearing, although it was a little small by today's standards.
Never owned a "moonwatch", but I think I've narrowed my search to it or a Navitimer.

Thani · 20 December 2007, 05:39 PM

my brother has the emergency, the avenger skyland LE and an aerospace

my fav is the emergency, but the rest are okay too,

Texsubmariner · 21 December 2007, 04:08 AM

Thanks, Steve for the awesome pics! Colts do look nice... Makes my decision so tough now.

ashu2289 · 21 December 2007, 04:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ShawnK

Having been spoiled by my Rolex GMT, I find myself in a situation. I want a chronograph, but a Daytona is just out of my price range (at least until the kids move out!).

I've been drawn to the Breitling chronos (Blackbird and Skyracer in particular) and was wondering what the opinion is about their quality. I know they are ETA based, but what about fit, finish and durability?

I'm not necessarily trying to compare with Rolex, since I see the brands in a different category. But Breitling does have several models in the price range I want to spend.

Anyone want to share their experience?

No doubt Breitling make excellent watches and regrading finishing, quality and precision they are awesome in fact Breitling dials are one of the best IMO.

GoldenBear · 21 December 2007, 05:13 AM

I have 2 Rolex Submariners, a Blue TT Sub (the best watch ever, IMO), and a SS Sub. I love them both. To mix things up, I got a Breitling Emergency about 6 mos. ago. Now, I have 3 amazing watches. Every day it's a tough decision which one to wear. My "B" works as an amazing Chrono and is accurate to about a second a month (or so). I don't check that closely. Both brands are great in their own ways. No reason to own one and hate the other. To each his own (or a couple of each).

Tools · 21 December 2007, 05:19 AM

I admire the Breitling craftsmanship and history..

Most of them are just to busy for me..

haakon59 · 21 December 2007, 06:27 AM

Breitling makes great watches. You are correct they use ETA movements, but ETA movements are reliable and sturdy and accurate. Breitling goes the extra mile and adds several enhancements (upgrading the quality of some parts of the movement) and most owners report the watches as keeping good time. I believe the movement in the model you are considering is the (formerly Valjoux) ETA 7750, which is a proven, reliable movement.

2 other brands you can look at are Omega and Zenith. Frankly, Zenith's El Primero (and other) chronograph movements are considered world class. When Rolex started out with their Daytona model, they initially used the El Primero movement until they developed their own. Best of luck.

Rockrolex · 21 December 2007, 08:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tools

I admire the Breitling craftsmanship and history..

Most of them are just to busy for me..

An that's exactly what I love avout my Navitimer Olympus. They don't get much busier than this.

Welshwatchman · 21 December 2007, 07:05 AM

Why not get a Classic (not the modern monstrosities) Zenith El Primoero chronograph.

Rolex quality for 1/3 of the price.

CPTL · 21 December 2007, 04:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Welshwatchman

Why not get a Classic (not the modern monstrosities) Zenith El Primoero chronograph.

Rolex quality for 1/3 of the price.

This is a great watch, and they used to be available for around $3.5k. However, they seem impossible to find these days, at least for that price. The chronomaster or class chrono--the old 3-subdial style--is one sweet watch with a first-rate movement.

Mort · 21 December 2007, 07:44 AM

Breitlings are great looking watches and the fit and finish is top notch.

Haroldglen · 21 December 2007, 09:19 AM

The Breitling is a beautiful watch........but it is not a Rolex.

JJ Irani · 21 December 2007, 09:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Haroldglen

The Breitling is a beautiful watch........but it is not a Rolex.

The Rolex is a beautiful watch.....thank God it's not a Breitling!!

lardog · 22 December 2007, 11:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JJ Irani

The Rolex is a beautiful watch.....thank God it's not a Breitling!!

OMFG

Hicks · 22 December 2007, 04:37 AM

I think Breitling makes some beautiful watches. I don't like all of their designs though.

Here are my favorite Breitling models:
- Windrider Chronomat (SS Black + TT Black/Blue Dial)
- Windrider Chrono Cockpit (SS Black + TT Blue Dial)
- Windrider Blackbird

timetravel125 · 22 December 2007, 05:53 AM

Breitlings are good watches. Highly recommended, as long as you know what model you want.

Dan Pierce · 22 December 2007, 05:54 AM

If I was a pilot I'd be all over Breitling like a cheap suit. If I could find a use for all the buzzers and whisltes I'd own one. Big fan of 2 tone dials w/ subs.

Breitling has history, lots of models, distinct design, celeb following, ect. Wonder why the hell I don't own one?

How about a chrono wrapped in an oyster as an option?
dP

20 December 2007, 02:01 PM	#1
ShawnK "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Real Name: Shawn Location: Kentucky Watch: GMT Master 16750 Posts: 222	Rolex owners--What do you think of Breitling? Having been spoiled by my Rolex GMT, I find myself in a situation. I want a chronograph, but a Daytona is just out of my price range (at least until the kids move out!). I've been drawn to the Breitling chronos (Blackbird and Skyracer in particular) and was wondering what the opinion is about their quality. I know they are ETA based, but what about fit, finish and durability? I'm not necessarily trying to compare with Rolex, since I see the brands in a different category. But Breitling does have several models in the price range I want to spend. Anyone want to share their experience?

20 December 2007, 04:11 PM	#2
Spencer "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: US Posts: 1,338	I have a Breitling Crosswind Special, and love it! But if I were in teh market for a more modestly priced Chrono I'd look at IWC. __________________ I'm a perpetual kind of guy Resident Audemars Piguet Fanatic

20 December 2007, 04:50 PM	#4
JJ Irani Fondly Remembered Join Date: May 2005 Real Name: JJ Location: Auckland, NZ Watch: ALL SOLD!! Posts: 74,319	Most Rolex owners don't think about Breitling!!! __________________ Words fail me in expressing my utmost thanks to ALL of you for this wonderful support during my hour of need!! I firmly believe that my time on planet earth is NOT yet up!! I shall fight this to the very end.......and WIN!!

20 December 2007, 05:02 PM	#12
Incurable "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Real Name: Pat Location: PNW Watch: your P's and Q's Posts: 2,549	Were I to get an alternative brand chrono, it'd be an Omega... Pretty good value if bought used. JMHO but most 'lings are way too busy (gauche) for me. __________________ Rolex GMT Master II 16710 (Blk/Blk) Rolex Explorer 114270 Sinn 356 Sa Flieger Limes Endurance 1Tausend Too many others... #2592 It may seem like I'm doing nothing but, at a cellular level, I'm actually quite busy...

21 December 2007, 05:13 AM	#18
GoldenBear "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: San Francisco Watch: Submariner Posts: 2,480	I like them...both. I have 2 Rolex Submariners, a Blue TT Sub (the best watch ever, IMO), and a SS Sub. I love them both. To mix things up, I got a Breitling Emergency about 6 mos. ago. Now, I have 3 amazing watches. Every day it's a tough decision which one to wear. My "B" works as an amazing Chrono and is accurate to about a second a month (or so). I don't check that closely. Both brands are great in their own ways. No reason to own one and hate the other. To each his own (or a couple of each). __________________ ____________________________________________ Rolex Blue TT Submariner Rolex SS Submariner Breitling Emergency Mission They are just watches, wear 'em. ____________________________________________

20 December 2007, 04:17 PM	#3
jordo9998 Banned Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Michigan Posts: 118	hello, I own a couple rolex's and a couple breitlings.. this year i bought the breitling for bentley 6.75.. I love breitlings.. I'm going to keep this short and sweet because its late and im sleepy so i will point out the facts between the two. Rolex does NOT make the best chrono watch.. Buy the daytona because you like the look and not for the chrono.. Rolex makes a great dive watch and breitling is known for their flight watches which is why they make only chronos... it's what they do best... ETA is great, just because they didn't buy every company breitling outsources from like rolex did doesnt make the qulity less.. Rolex is more popular and holds it's value more for several reasons... As for breitling does not.. Some people around here buy rolex's because they are easy to flip after time. anyways, buy a breitling because you like them, not for any other reason.. and breitling is up there with the best of them.. I am nothing but happy with mine. their look and operation is top notch. hope that helps..

20 December 2007, 05:02 PM	#9
Texsubmariner "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Real Name: Khanh Location: Texas Watch: SSGMTc Posts: 1,227	Actually, I am thinking of a Breitling Colt GMT. Anyone here familiar with this model?

20 December 2007, 05:39 PM	#15
Thani Banned Join Date: Oct 2007 Real Name: Thani Location: Dubai UAE Watch: Milgauss 116400 GV Posts: 2,082	my brother has the emergency, the avenger skyland LE and an aerospace my fav is the emergency, but the rest are okay too,

21 December 2007, 04:08 AM	#16
Texsubmariner "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Real Name: Khanh Location: Texas Watch: SSGMTc Posts: 1,227	Thanks, Steve for the awesome pics! Colts do look nice... Makes my decision so tough now.

21 December 2007, 05:19 AM	#19
Tools TRF Moderator & 2024 SubLV41 Patron Join Date: May 2007 Real Name: Larry Location: Mojave Desert Watch: GMT's Posts: 43,514	I admire the Breitling craftsmanship and history.. Most of them are just to busy for me.. __________________ (Chill ... It's just a watch Forum.....) NAWCC Member

21 December 2007, 06:27 AM	#20
haakon59 "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Seattle Posts: 1,571	Breitling makes great watches. You are correct they use ETA movements, but ETA movements are reliable and sturdy and accurate. Breitling goes the extra mile and adds several enhancements (upgrading the quality of some parts of the movement) and most owners report the watches as keeping good time. I believe the movement in the model you are considering is the (formerly Valjoux) ETA 7750, which is a proven, reliable movement. 2 other brands you can look at are Omega and Zenith. Frankly, Zenith's El Primero (and other) chronograph movements are considered world class. When Rolex started out with their Daytona model, they initially used the El Primero movement until they developed their own. Best of luck.

21 December 2007, 07:05 AM	#22
Welshwatchman "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2006 Real Name: Paul Location: Wales, UK Posts: 14,578	Why not get a Classic (not the modern monstrosities) Zenith El Primoero chronograph. Rolex quality for 1/3 of the price. __________________ ..33

21 December 2007, 07:44 AM	#24
Mort "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Atlanta GA Posts: 1,001	Breitlings are great looking watches and the fit and finish is top notch.

21 December 2007, 09:19 AM	#25
Haroldglen "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Real Name: Harold Location: Ohio Watch: Rolex Datejust Posts: 75	The Breitling is a beautiful watch........but it is not a Rolex.

22 December 2007, 04:37 AM	#28
Hicks Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Real Name: Dennis Location: Netherlands Watch: Omega 2221.80 Posts: 61	I think Breitling makes some beautiful watches. I don't like all of their designs though. Here are my favorite Breitling models: - Windrider Chronomat (SS Black + TT Black/Blue Dial) - Windrider Chrono Cockpit (SS Black + TT Blue Dial) - Windrider Blackbird

22 December 2007, 05:53 AM	#29
timetravel125 "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Real Name: Louie Location: California Watch: Rolex Posts: 644	Breitlings are good watches. Highly recommended, as long as you know what model you want.

22 December 2007, 05:54 AM	#30
Dan Pierce 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Real Name: D'OH! Location: Kentucky Watch: Rolex-1 Tudor-3 Posts: 36,215	If I was a pilot I'd be all over Breitling like a cheap suit. If I could find a use for all the buzzers and whisltes I'd own one. Big fan of 2 tone dials w/ subs. Breitling has history, lots of models, distinct design, celeb following, ect. Wonder why the hell I don't own one? How about a chrono wrapped in an oyster as an option? dP Attached Images __________________ TRF Member# 1668 Bass Player in TRF "AFTER DARK" Bar & NightClub Band Commander-in-Chief of The Nylon Nation The Crown & Shield Club Honorary Member of P-Club

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)