The Breitling 1806, a coveted vintage chronograph often referred to as the "Fried Egg" due to its distinctive onion crown and prominent chronograph pushers, holds a special place in the hearts of many watch enthusiasts. Its iconic design, coupled with Breitling's renowned history of precision timekeeping, makes it a highly sought-after piece. This article delves into the intricacies of a Breitling 1806 revision, specifically focusing on the process documented – and often debated – within online communities like The Breitling Watch Source Forums and Reddit's r/Watches. We'll examine the challenges, the rewards, and the crucial considerations involved in bringing this classic timepiece back to its former glory.
The information presented here draws heavily on publicly available resources, including forum posts from The Breitling Watch Source Forums (“The Breitling Watch Source Forums Breitling Watch Information Forums, Navitimer, Chronomat 0 new like(s) received: FAQ: Last visit was: Mon Jan 29, 2024 8:14 pm: .”) and discussions on r/Watches, specifically focusing on threads like "[Breitling 1806] help" and "Advice/opinion on Navitimer 1806 purchase." These forums serve as invaluable hubs for collectors, enthusiasts, and experts, providing a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experiences related to Breitling 1806 restoration projects.
One particularly compelling example comes from a user documenting their project on The Breitling Watch Source Forums under the title "Breitling 1806 project. The 1st stage." and another showcasing their work with the title "Fotos: Die Arbeiten an meiner Breitling 1806 haben begonnen" (Photos: The work on my Breitling 1806 has begun). These posts offer a glimpse into the meticulous nature of the revision process, highlighting the various stages involved. From initial assessment and disassembly to component cleaning, repair, and reassembly, the journey is fraught with challenges that require both technical expertise and a deep understanding of vintage watch mechanics.
The Challenges of a Breitling 1806 Revision:
Restoring a Breitling 1806 is not a task for the faint of heart. These watches, often decades old, have endured years of wear and tear. Common issues encountered during a revision include:
* Movement Issues: The Venus 178 caliber, frequently found in the 1806, is a complex mechanism requiring specialized knowledge for repair. Worn parts, seized components, and lubrication degradation are common problems that need addressing. Finding replacement parts can be challenging, as many are no longer produced, requiring sourcing from vintage watch part suppliers or potentially utilizing skilled watchmakers for custom fabrication.
* Case and Dial Degradation: The case, often made of stainless steel, can exhibit signs of wear, including scratches, dents, and corrosion. The dial, a crucial element of the watch's aesthetic appeal, may suffer from discoloration, fading, or damage to the lume. Restoration requires careful cleaning, polishing, and potentially re-lume work, demanding precision and expertise.
* Crystal Replacement: The acrylic crystal is prone to scratching and chipping. Finding an accurate replacement can be difficult, as the original specifications might not be readily available.
* Hand and Pusher Issues: The hands and chronograph pushers can become worn or damaged over time. Replacement parts or careful restoration might be necessary.
The Stages of a Typical Breitling 1806 Revision:
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