A customer sent me this 40s Breitling about 2 months ago
and it was one of the worst ones I have ever seen from this
era. His father wore it in WWII as a bomber pilot in raids
over Germany. He asked that it be restored as if it were my
own. I tried cleaning the dial (as seen in the 2,3 and 4 before
pics) but it was too far gone so it went out for refinishing.
Interestingly, the movement was not signed but I have seen
this before on very early Breitlings - this one could never
have been a fake. The back has the correct reference and serial
numbers but the inside is not signed either.
Here are the before and afters. It was a pleasure bringing
this one back to life. Craig
Response Posts
Rarely am I lost for words Craig, but that is simply unbelievable.
The quality of the work is just exceptional, you get all my
restoration business from this point forward.
The movement of a piece this old would likely not be signed
- I would be more wary of it if it were, and as you say the
caseback not being signed is also correct.
I hope that this piece will be a fitting tribute to the gentleman's
father.
WOW! Craig, that's crazy!
Craig. I am just now starting to appreciate the real vintage
works. Will likely not buy one for a great while and will
NEVER be a Roffensian. But I can certainly appreciate fine
restoration having restored many cars MUCH older than that
watch. Good Sir, that is a masterful restoration. You are
to be commended. Any more work like that and Roff should talk
to you about that ancient pocket watch he posted on. VERY
impressive!
That is absolutely incredible.
Firstly Craig, I can guarantee that if ever I am in need
of any refurbishment work on a watch, you will be getting
my business. No question.
Secondly, it gives me real joy to know that the watches
I own today (especially as they are all mechanical) can
always be restored back to fantastic condition. Considering
how far gone that 40's model was, the results are nothing
short of spectacular.
AMAZING work.
Craig, I take my hat off to you. WOW, that is a great
job.
Your usual great job Craig!
Restoration of a Classic Breitling Watch
