The Breitling Navitimer, a horological icon celebrated for its slide-rule bezel and enduring design, holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. However, even these robust timepieces are susceptible to damage, and a cracked crystal, even a microscopic one, significantly impacts their value. This article delves into the complexities of a Breitling Navitimer with a cracked crystal, exploring its impact on resale value, repair options, and the overall implications of such damage. We'll also draw upon the experiences shared in online forums, such as the questions regarding restoring a 1967 Navitimer, dealing with fog under the crystal, and repairing a scratched crystal, to provide a comprehensive understanding of this issue.
The case of the Watchfinder appraisal, where a seemingly invisible micro-crack allowed air ingress, highlights a crucial point: damage isn't always readily apparent. While a large, visible crack drastically reduces value, a microscopic fracture, undetectable without specialized equipment, can still cause significant depreciation, as demonstrated by Watchfinder's need for Omega service (a noteworthy detail which raises questions about the specific nature of the damage and perhaps a misidentification of the servicing requirement). The fact that they sent it to Omega instead of Breitling suggests the damage might have been more extensive than initially described, or perhaps related to a component other than the crystal itself. This ambiguity underlines the importance of professional assessment when dealing with potential damage to a high-value watch.
Question about restoring a 1967 Navitimer: The age of a Navitimer significantly impacts the consequences of a cracked crystal. A 1967 model is a vintage piece, carrying considerable collector value. A cracked crystal, regardless of its size, introduces a level of uncertainty. Restoring a vintage Navitimer requires meticulous attention to detail, using parts that are period-correct or of equivalent quality. Finding a replacement crystal for a 1967 Navitimer might be challenging, and the cost could be substantial. The repair itself, requiring the expertise of a qualified watchmaker specializing in vintage Breitlings, adds to the overall expense. The value of a restored 1967 Navitimer with a replaced crystal will still likely be lower than an equivalent watch with an original, undamaged crystal, although a skilled restoration could minimize the negative impact on value. The authenticity of the replacement parts is crucial; using incorrect or inferior components could severely devalue the watch.
current url：https://bczvxk.j676e.com/all/breitling-navitimer-with-cracked-glass-vakue-46324