The Breitling Watch Source Forums

I have the opportunity of getting the above and it is not a piece I have done much research on. It comes with the Venus movement and the case seems to be in a good condition. What should I be looking for? Is there a way to tell the dial and hands are original? Is it something worth adding to my non existent vintage collection?

Probably worth putting which model TopTime, and a pic if possible, as there were quite a few versions.

This is my original Gen1 model 2002 with Venus 188 movement.




.... but there are 3 dial "long play" versions like 810s, square case and contrast sub-dial examples and of course gold options etc

810 isn't a Long Play John, that's the 815, but about 10 different Top Time, so more info would be nice

Doh!

I do not want to hijack this thread, but I reply with the belief that my questions are on the same page as the OPs. The timing is almost a bit scary, I was just starting ti research this myself

I too have the opportunity to buy a vintage Top Time, but as I don't know much about this particular model (or vintage wrist watches in general). What should one take into consideration? How much can I expect to put into a complete overhaul. Non-AD is sufficient I suppose?

The one I'm looking at has quite poor hands (and the dial isn't super crisp either), can I expect to easily source NOS hands?

Are they sought after? If so, which refs? I suppose the reverse panda is one of the more popular versions? It being featured in the 007 movie Thunderball, and all.

Any opinions on pricing?

can we PLEASE see pics to comment, especially regarding condition and value ?
assume you are talking about a ref. 2002 ?

True, this thread is nothing without pictures, here is the ref 2002 I'm currently considering.

I just learned that there might be something going on with the hairspring (the seller had it by a watchmaker).
Please post your option on value as well, or PM me.

Thank you!

I'll let others more knowledgeable comment on this watch but for price you are best to look at completed listings in eBay and on other online advertised auctions, but running examples which have sold (which is important) tend to range from around £500 to £1500 depending on condition and originality.

The tachy ring has been redone....

correct !

What makes you say the tachy ring has been redone?

becauce the printing is far less "crisp" than the rings I know, printing is wrong.

have a look at the tachy rings above.

Looks identical to one of my 2002s with the same rarer BASE scale...

you are absolutely entitled to think I'm wrong, of course - and maybe I am. looks like a refinish to me too.

To add to the old discussion, I've also come across a 2002 with this same design. Printing is a bit distorted from the plexi. When I get s chance it take it out and have a good look.