ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX

JJ Irani · 1 January 2006, 04:48 AM

Hi guys,

Almost three days wearing this new Chronograph and here's what I think about it...I'll get straight down to the bare facts:

Movement: Breitling 13 (Valjoux 7750 Chronograph/Chronometer)
Power Reserve: minimum 42 hours
Chronograph: 1/5th second, 30 minutes, 12 hours
Vibrations/hr. & Jewels: 28,800 v.p.h., 25 jewels
Calendar: Dial aperture
Water resistance: 100 m/330 ft.
Bezel: Unidirectional, ratcheted
Crown: Screw-locked, two gaskets
Caseback: Screwed in
Crystal: Cambered sapphire, glareproofed both sides
Diameter: 43 mm
Thickness: 15.5 mm
Weight (only watch): 107.70 grams
Interhorn width: 22 mm
Bracelet: Pilot - SS all polished

- Accuracy of the watch has been virtually spot on from day one.
- Unlike the Rolex watches I have, time readability is sometimes a bit difficult in certain light. The STOPPED second hand can get confusing at times, but I've been strongly advised by a true expert NOT to keep the Chrono function running - just to use it when necessary.
- the white dial and Roman numerals are very attractive and the date window very clear and readable instantaneously.
- bracelet looks good, but is shiny as all hell and would have to be careful about scratches. Beautifully spaced 5-abreast links, angled and aesthetically very beautiful. ALL links are solid!!
- clasp is very strong and the flip-over secure lock has also been angled in keeping with the aesthetics and symmetery of the links on the bracelet. Breitling have been considerate enough to provide four more holes within the clasp for those fine adjustments. The fold-over lock has the Breitling logo and on the clasp are the words: BREITLING 1884. Very nice touch.

Some pics...

and the superbly crafted clasp!!

Cheers - JJ

BruceS · 2 January 2006, 02:43 AM

Good job JJ! I have found Breitling chronos to be hard to read at times. The hands get lost in the rest of the dial, but most chronos are that way. It's a lovely watch for sure.

The Breitling pilot bracelet is definately one of the nicest out there. The main thing I don't like about most Breitlings is the polished finish. Some guys have them brushed, but you better plan on keeping it afterward.

It's a nice watch. I hope you enjoy it for awhile, but at the price you paid for it, you shouldn't loose much!

JJ Irani · 2 January 2006, 03:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BruceS

Good job JJ! I have found Breitling chronos to be hard to read at times. The hands get lost in the rest of the dial, but most chronos are that way. It's a lovely watch for sure.

The Breitling pilot bracelet is definately one of the nicest out there. The main thing I don't like about most Breitlings is the polished finish. Some guys have them brushed, but you better plan on keeping it afterward.

It's a nice watch. I hope you enjoy it for awhile, but at the price you paid for it, you shouldn't loose much!

Thanks, Bruce...I'll leave the bracelet exactly the way it is...I do love the polished finish and you know me....I stick with originality!!

For the ridiculously low SALE price I paid, I could even make a small profit....but that's another story!!

mailman · 2 January 2006, 05:08 AM

Great review JJ.

JJ Irani · 2 January 2006, 05:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mailman

Great review JJ.

Thanks, Paul....quite a bit of that info I did manage to derive from the catalogue!!

TARDIS · 2 January 2006, 08:46 PM

Good stuff JJ. The photo's esp.

Breitling seems to be the favorite among some of the motoring fraternity. See the "5th Gear" TV show. Tiff wears one and I think it's a black dial Navitimer.

The Crosswind with a black dial might be better?

My favorite in the Black Hawk

Mort · 3 January 2006, 12:50 AM

JJ, Thats a really nice looking watch. I once looked at the TT model of the Crosswinds. For the money it is a lot of watch. I still hope to one day have a Breitling in my stable. I keeo going back to wanting either a All Gold Navitimer or a Bentley model.

Great review.

JJ Irani · 3 January 2006, 04:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mort

JJ, Thats a really nice looking watch. I once looked at the TT model of the Crosswinds. For the money it is a lot of watch. I still hope to one day have a Breitling in my stable. I keeo going back to wanting either a All Gold Navitimer or a Bentley model.

Great review.

Thanks, Mort, and the rest of you guys. Appreciate the sentiments.

I did have a look at an all black dial, but that was at Mansor's and he was NOT letting it go for anything less than NZ$ 5,200 (final price). I got this one from Watches of Switzerland and for the low, low SALE price of just NZ$ 3,500. Besides, I did need a white dial in my collection.

So it all actually worked out pretty damn well!!

Alan From New York · 3 January 2006, 04:57 AM

I bought a Breitling, too. One of the new Avantages. Unfortunately, I had to bring it back, as it stopped working properly after only two hours.

The replacement is due at the end of the month and I'll let you know when it arrives.

JJ Irani · 3 January 2006, 05:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alan From New York

I bought a Breitling, too. One of the new Avantages. Unfortunately, I had to bring it back, as it stopped working properly after only two hours.

The replacement is due at the end of the month and I'll let you know when it arrives.

Hi Alan,

Sorry to hear that about a brand new watch...not a common occurence, I assure you. You'd have to be distinctly unlucky for something like that to happen.

Hope your replacement comes through fast and then you can let us have some gorgeous pics!!

JJ

Alan From New York · 3 January 2006, 05:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JJ Irani

Hope your replacement comes through fast and then you can let us have some gorgeous pics!!

I have one photo, taken before I returned it.

Rockrolex · 3 January 2006, 12:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alan From New York

I have one photo, taken before I returned it.

Looks nice, Alan. What's the top display for?

Alan From New York · 3 January 2006, 02:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rockrolex

Looks nice, Alan. What's the top display for?

Top window shows what feature has been selected. (Timer, alarm, chronograph, 2nd Time Zone, and synchronization of hands to digital display of time.)

Rockrolex · 3 January 2006, 11:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alan From New York

Top window shows what feature has been selected. (Timer, alarm, chronograph, 2nd Time Zone, and synchronization of hands to digital display of time.)

Hey, that can be pretty useful. I like it.

JJ Irani · 4 January 2006, 04:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rockrolex

Hey, that can be pretty useful. I like it.

Yes, but do bear in mind that it is a quartz model!!

Rockrolex · 4 January 2006, 04:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JJ Irani

Yes, but do bear in mind that it is a quartz model!!

Thank you for that wonderful insight.

Alan From New York · 4 January 2006, 11:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JJ Irani

Yes, but do bear in mind that it is a quartz model!!

Really? Salesman told me it was steam powered!

JJ Irani · 4 January 2006, 12:06 PM

Hey, ya tossers, I know I stated the obvious!

I was just trying to make Ed aware that it's a quartz because I was under the impression that he does not like quartz watches!!

5 January 2006, 04:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alan From New York

Really? Salesman told me it was steam powered!

My Ad told me steam powered watches are on the come-back trail. They harken back to the days of the romantic rails, when conductors wore them on their wrists to ensure the train was on time. The only drawback is when the watch strikes the hour, the whistle is quite loud and can burn people with steam cuz it shoots out about a foot from the wrist.

Alan From New York · 5 January 2006, 04:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Atomic

My Ad told me steam powered watches are on the come-back trail. They harken back to the days of the romantic rails, when conductors wore them on their wrists to ensure the train was on time. The only drawback is when the watch strikes the hour, the whistle is quite loud and can burn people with steam cuz it shoots out about a foot from the wrist.

Kinda gives new meaning to the phrase, "Look out! She's gonna blow!"

JJ Irani · 5 January 2006, 04:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alan From New York

Kinda gives new meaning to the phrase, "Look out! She's gonna blow!"

Rockrolex · 5 January 2006, 04:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JJ Irani

Hey, ya tossers, I know I stated the obvious!

I was just trying to make Ed aware that it's a quartz because I was under the impression that he does not like quartz watches!!

Where did you get the impression I don't like quartz watches?

When I first got into Rolex collecting, my first one was nearly an OQ President, but it got away from me.

And what do you think this one is:

JJ Irani · 5 January 2006, 04:39 AM

Okay, okay...my bad!!

5 January 2006, 07:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alan From New York

Kinda gives new meaning to the phrase, "Look out! She's gonna blow!"

Nice finish Alan... I sets 'em up, and youse can knock 'em down.

Alan From New York · 5 January 2006, 07:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Atomic

Nice finish Alan... I sets 'em up, and youse can knock 'em down.

Teamwork, Kiddo, teamwork!

mailman · 5 January 2006, 11:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alan From New York

Teamwork, Kiddo, teamwork!

Nice work guys.

ralphieralph · 8 January 2006, 08:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JJ Irani

Hi guys,

Almost three days wearing this new Chronograph and here's what I think about it...I'll get straight down to the bare facts:

Movement: Breitling 13 (Valjoux 7750 Chronograph/Chronometer)
Power Reserve: minimum 42 hours
Chronograph: 1/5th second, 30 minutes, 12 hours
Vibrations/hr. & Jewels: 28,800 v.p.h., 25 jewels
Calendar: Dial aperture
Water resistance: 100 m/330 ft.
Bezel: Unidirectional, ratcheted
Crown: Screw-locked, two gaskets
Caseback: Screwed in
Crystal: Cambered sapphire, glareproofed both sides
Diameter: 43 mm
Thickness: 15.5 mm
Weight (only watch): 107.70 grams
Interhorn width: 22 mm
Bracelet: Pilot - SS all polished

- Accuracy of the watch has been virtually spot on from day one.
- Unlike the Rolex watches I have, time readability is sometimes a bit difficult in certain light. The STOPPED second hand can get confusing at times, but I've been strongly advised by a true expert NOT to keep the Chrono function running - just to use it when necessary.
- the white dial and Roman numerals are very attractive and the date window very clear and readable instantaneously.
- bracelet looks good, but is shiny as all hell and would have to be careful about scratches. Beautifully spaced 5-abreast links, angled and aesthetically very beautiful. ALL links are solid!!
- clasp is very strong and the flip-over secure lock has also been angled in keeping with the aesthetics and symmetery of the links on the bracelet. Breitling have been considerate enough to provide four more holes within the clasp for those fine adjustments. The fold-over lock has the Breitling logo and on the clasp are the words: BREITLING 1884. Very nice touch.

Some pics...

and the superbly crafted clasp!!

Cheers - JJ

Shure sounds wounderful!!! but,JJ is there anything you would like to add or possibly comment on with this review?????????

ralphieralph · 8 January 2006, 08:47 AM

Rockrolex · 9 January 2006, 03:39 AM

Isn't that a little cruel, Ralph. Rubbing it in like that.

mailman · 9 January 2006, 07:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rockrolex

Isn't that a little cruel, Ralph. Rubbing it in like that.

You're right Ed, it is.

1 January 2006, 04:48 AM	#1
JJ Irani Fondly Remembered Join Date: May 2005 Real Name: JJ Location: Auckland, NZ Watch: ALL SOLD!! Posts: 74,320	Breitling CROSSWIND review !! Hi guys, Almost three days wearing this new Chronograph and here's what I think about it...I'll get straight down to the bare facts: Movement: Breitling 13 (Valjoux 7750 Chronograph/Chronometer) Power Reserve: minimum 42 hours Chronograph: 1/5th second, 30 minutes, 12 hours Vibrations/hr. & Jewels: 28,800 v.p.h., 25 jewels Calendar: Dial aperture Water resistance: 100 m/330 ft. Bezel: Unidirectional, ratcheted Crown: Screw-locked, two gaskets Caseback: Screwed in Crystal: Cambered sapphire, glareproofed both sides Diameter: 43 mm Thickness: 15.5 mm Weight (only watch): 107.70 grams Interhorn width: 22 mm Bracelet: Pilot - SS all polished - Accuracy of the watch has been virtually spot on from day one. - Unlike the Rolex watches I have, time readability is sometimes a bit difficult in certain light. The STOPPED second hand can get confusing at times, but I've been strongly advised by a true expert NOT to keep the Chrono function running - just to use it when necessary. - the white dial and Roman numerals are very attractive and the date window very clear and readable instantaneously. - bracelet looks good, but is shiny as all hell and would have to be careful about scratches. Beautifully spaced 5-abreast links, angled and aesthetically very beautiful. ALL links are solid!! - clasp is very strong and the flip-over secure lock has also been angled in keeping with the aesthetics and symmetery of the links on the bracelet. Breitling have been considerate enough to provide four more holes within the clasp for those fine adjustments. The fold-over lock has the Breitling logo and on the clasp are the words: BREITLING 1884. Very nice touch. Some pics... and the superbly crafted clasp!! Cheers - JJ __________________ 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!! Last edited by JJ Irani; 1 January 2006 at 05:14 AM..

2 January 2006, 05:08 AM	#4
mailman TRF Moderator & DATE-JUST41 2024 Patron Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: . Watch: 126610LN Posts: 35,359	Great review JJ. __________________ JJ

2 January 2006, 08:46 PM	#6
TARDIS "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Real Name: Steve Location: Queensland, AUST Posts: 2,003	Nice Review Good stuff JJ. The photo's esp. Breitling seems to be the favorite among some of the motoring fraternity. See the "5th Gear" TV show. Tiff wears one and I think it's a black dial Navitimer. The Crosswind with a black dial might be better? My favorite in the Black Hawk

3 January 2006, 04:57 AM	#9
Alan From New York Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Real Name: Alan Location: Brooklyn, NY Watch: And Learn Posts: 335	Nice Watch, JJ I bought a Breitling, too. One of the new Avantages. Unfortunately, I had to bring it back, as it stopped working properly after only two hours. The replacement is due at the end of the month and I'll let you know when it arrives.

4 January 2006, 12:06 PM	#18
JJ Irani Fondly Remembered Join Date: May 2005 Real Name: JJ Location: Auckland, NZ Watch: ALL SOLD!! Posts: 74,320	Hey, ya tossers, I know I stated the obvious! I was just trying to make Ed aware that it's a quartz because I was under the impression that he does not like quartz watches!! __________________ 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!!

2 January 2006, 02:43 AM	#2
BruceS "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Real Name: Sir Daft Location: Cornwall, UK Watch: Too many Posts: 2,464	Good job JJ! I have found Breitling chronos to be hard to read at times. The hands get lost in the rest of the dial, but most chronos are that way. It's a lovely watch for sure. The Breitling pilot bracelet is definately one of the nicest out there. The main thing I don't like about most Breitlings is the polished finish. Some guys have them brushed, but you better plan on keeping it afterward. It's a nice watch. I hope you enjoy it for awhile, but at the price you paid for it, you shouldn't loose much!

3 January 2006, 12:50 AM	#7
Mort "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Atlanta GA Posts: 1,001	JJ, Thats a really nice looking watch. I once looked at the TT model of the Crosswinds. For the money it is a lot of watch. I still hope to one day have a Breitling in my stable. I keeo going back to wanting either a All Gold Navitimer or a Bentley model. Great review.

5 January 2006, 04:39 AM	#23
JJ Irani Fondly Remembered Join Date: May 2005 Real Name: JJ Location: Auckland, NZ Watch: ALL SOLD!! Posts: 74,320	Okay, okay...my bad!! __________________ 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!!

8 January 2006, 08:47 AM	#28
ralphieralph "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Real Name: Ahh..."LEROY" Location: connecticut Watch: SUBMARINER Posts: 681

9 January 2006, 03:39 AM	#29
Rockrolex TRF Moderator & 2024 DATE-JUST41 Patron Join Date: May 2005 Real Name: God Location: Washington, D.C. Watch: What do you think? Posts: 37,507	Isn't that a little cruel, Ralph. Rubbing it in like that. __________________ Despite the high cost of living, it's still very popular. *Tosser Cabinet Member* Official Member: 'Perpetual 30' Vegas International GTG 2016 Official Member "WIS-CON" Las Vegas International GTG 2017 Official Member "WIS-CON" Las Vegas International GTG 2018 Official Member "WIS-CON" Las Vegas International GTG 2019

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