I might have a lead on a vintage Breitling Chronomat 217012 from the 40’s. It’s a very neat looking watch but that’s about as my knowledge goes. So far I can one picture to go on and I’d say: - Fairly clean dial with well preserved radium lume and some loss on the 7 - Hands look to be original but the lume doesn’t match. Maybe relumed? - chrono hand isn’t reset to zero - probably indicates this needs a service. - case looks clean and sharp - bracelet looks cool - no idea if this is original to the watch IMO this looks like a finely preserved example worth picking up. I’m waiting on more pictures, more narrative, and the offering price so I cannot speak further than that. I’d love to hear what other member think of this piece and if anyone could offer nice Breitling resources for my further reading. Thanks!
Also sense the loom is original IMHO (I have been mistaken before) But the loom if redone would not have taken on the patina of black aged marks. That"s telling in it's original form as age is concerned. Cheers
Well - Watch is being offered at $3000. Seems a bit high IMO but I’m not an expert by any means. The watch is said to be purchased about 30 years ago and was previously owned by Alben Barkley (former Gov of KY and Vice President under Truman). No documents to prove the providence but it’s a good story of its heritage. Last serviced by Dan Crawley. I’d rather own a good example without famous ownership - paying more because someone famous owned it isn’t really in my interest. Here are a few more pics.