vintage breitling chomo matic navitimer ebay | Breitling Navitimer Vintage for sale

The Breitling Chrono-Matic Navitimer. The name itself conjures images of mid-century aviation, complex slide rules, and the daring spirit of a bygone era. For watch collectors, finding a vintage Breitling Chrono-Matic Navitimer, especially on a platform like eBay, represents a thrilling treasure hunt. These iconic chronographs, with their distinctive aesthetics and historical significance, are highly sought after. However, navigating the world of vintage watch collecting on eBay requires a discerning eye, a healthy dose of caution, and a solid understanding of the intricacies of the Chrono-Matic Navitimer. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to understanding, identifying, and potentially acquiring a vintage Breitling Chrono-Matic Navitimer on eBay.

The Allure of the Chrono-Matic Navitimer

Before diving into the specifics of eBay hunting, let's explore what makes the Chrono-Matic Navitimer so desirable. Its allure lies in several key factors:

* Historical Significance: The Chrono-Matic Navitimer represents a pivotal moment in horological history. It was one of the first automatic chronographs ever produced, born from a collaborative effort between Breitling, Heuer, Buren, and Dubois-Dépraz. The "Project 99" consortium aimed to overcome the challenge of creating a self-winding chronograph movement, a feat that revolutionized watchmaking.

* Distinctive Design: The Navitimer's signature feature is its circular slide rule bezel, designed for pilots to perform complex calculations related to speed, distance, fuel consumption, and more. The Chrono-Matic Navitimer retained this iconic feature while incorporating the unique left-hand crown placement, necessitated by the automatic movement's design. This unconventional layout immediately distinguishes it from other Navitimer models.

* Rarity and Collectibility: As a pioneering automatic chronograph, the Chrono-Matic Navitimer was produced in relatively limited numbers compared to later Navitimer models. This scarcity, coupled with its historical importance, makes it a highly sought-after piece among collectors.

* A Variety of References: The Chrono-Matic Navitimer wasn't a single model, but rather a family of watches encompassing various references, each with its own subtle variations in dial design, case construction, and movement. This diversity adds to the complexity and intrigue of collecting these watches.

Navigating the Labyrinth: eBay and Vintage Breitling

eBay, with its vast marketplace and global reach, presents both opportunities and challenges for vintage watch collectors. While it offers access to a wide range of timepieces, it also demands careful scrutiny and a thorough understanding of the risks involved.

Key Considerations Before Bidding:

* Research is Paramount: Before even browsing eBay listings, immerse yourself in research. Learn about the different Chrono-Matic Navitimer references, their distinguishing features, common issues, and approximate market values. Resources like vintage watch forums, dedicated Breitling websites, and auction house archives are invaluable. Understand the nuances of dial variations, hand styles, and case markings.

* Know Your References: The Chrono-Matic Navitimer family includes references like the 816, 1806, 2111, and others. Each reference has its own specific characteristics. Knowing which reference you're interested in will help you narrow your search and identify potential red flags.

* Dial Variations and Authenticity: Dials are often the most vulnerable part of a vintage watch. Look for signs of redialing (restoration or replacement of the original dial). Redials can significantly impact a watch's value. Pay close attention to the font, the quality of the printing, and the overall appearance of the dial. Compare the dial to known examples of authentic dials for the specific reference.

* Movement Matters: The Chrono-Matic Navitimer typically houses a Breitling Caliber 11, 12, or 14 movement, based on the Buren 1281 ebauche with a Dubois-Dépraz chronograph module. Check for the correct movement markings and serial number. Ensure the movement is clean, functional, and in good working order. A service history is a significant plus.

* Case Condition: Examine the case closely for signs of over-polishing, corrosion, or damage. Over-polishing can soften the case lines and diminish its original appearance. Look for sharp edges and well-defined features. The case back should have the correct markings and serial number.

* Hands and Bezel: Verify that the hands are the correct style for the specific reference and that they are in good condition. The slide rule bezel should rotate smoothly and have clear, legible markings.

* Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to contact the seller with specific questions about the watch's condition, history, and authenticity. Request additional photos, especially of the movement and any areas of concern. A reputable seller will be transparent and willing to provide detailed information.

* Seller Reputation: Carefully review the seller's feedback rating and read past reviews. Look for sellers with a proven track record of selling vintage watches and positive feedback from other collectors.