Leon Breitling first established Breitling Watches in 1884 and since that time the company has become famed for the production of high quality and extremely prestigious watches. While the watches were once created almost solely for use in aviation, they have become as popular as a status symbol or luxury watch as they have for their aviation uses. With that said, many of the watches still offer features like the flyback function, split second, and even 24 hour dial.

Aviation Use

One of the distinguishing features of a Breitling watch is the large dial. This was introduced because it was easier for pilots to see when flying their planes, and most models use an all mechanic automatic winding mechanism. Some high end luxury models may include diamonds on the strap or the dial of the watch, adding to their value and their appeal.

The Navitimer

Among the company’s many accolades and boasts is the fact that their watches have been used in space. The Navitimer is one of Breitling’s most famous and most renowned watches. A circular slide rule was added to the watch which made it especially beneficial for aircraft pilots.

Although the watch was first introduced to the market in the 1940s, in 1961, astronaut Scott Carpenter approached Breitling with the idea of using a 24 hour dial instead of a 12 hour dial as night and day do not exist in space travel. The company liked the idea and not only created such a watch for Carpenter but started selling similar models under the name Cosmonaute Navitimer.

The Bentley 23 Le Mans Watch

Breitling sponsored the Bentley 24 Le Mans 24 hour team between 2001 and 2003 and a commemorative model of their watch, called the Limited Edition Breitling Bentley 24 Le Mans Watch was released as a result and as a means of celebrating the partnership.

Breitling Watches

Breitling watches have a strong history and the company continues to manufacture high quality and great looking watches. There are many different models of watch available from the Swiss manufacturer and while many still accommodate use by aircraft pilots, they are also highly sought after for their good looks and their luxury status.

Breitling watches are considered one of the finest makes in prestige or luxury watches and because of the high demand and typically high price associated with Breitlings, this means that there are a large number of replicas or fakes that have swamped the market. A better way to save money on owning one of the finest and most renowned brands of watch is to buy top quality secondhand Breitling watches. You can save some money while still buying one of the best watches around.

Authenticity And Condition

There are many areas to check to ensure that a watch is genuine and that it is in good quality. You should look at the hands and how they move because this can help identify those watches that use substandard mechanisms. You should also look at the watch itself but also at the bracelet. Consider whether they match properly and whether the links are in good condition.

Benefiting From Experience

Unfortunately, unless you’re experienced at looking at both real and replica secondhand Breitling watches it can prove extremely difficult to be able to pick out the quality watches from the fakes and if you pay the price of a real model only to find out it’s a replica then it can prove extremely costly indeed.

Do Your Research Before You Begin

You should try to research the model and type of watch that you are looking for before you start shopping around. There are a great many different models of Breitling and other prestige watches to choose from and if you know of the model that you want then you may be able to employ the services of a skilled jeweller to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Not only do they have the experience of checking the authenticity and quality of secondhand Breitling watches but they may also have a network of contacts that can provide details of the exact watch you’re looking for.

Secondhand Breitling Watches

Used Breitling watches are beautiful and reliable timepieces. They are also a sound investment idea and an ideal family heirloom to be passed from one generation to the next. Ensure that you buy a real Breitling and that it is in good condition in order to get the best looking watch possible.