The Breitling Navitimer 806 is a highly sought-after vintage chronograph, a piece of horological history that captures the spirit of aviation and sophisticated design. Its iconic slide rule bezel and intricate dial are instantly recognizable, cementing its place as a collector's dream. However, even these legendary timepieces aren't immune to the ravages of time and, occasionally, unforeseen issues. One such issue, and a potential red flag for prospective buyers, is the absence of the Breitling logo on the dial of a purported Navitimer 806. Furthermore, discoloration on the dial of any Navitimer 806, regardless of logo presence, is a significant indicator of potential problems.
This article will delve into the intricacies of the Breitling Navitimer 806, focusing specifically on instances where the Breitling name is missing from the dial, and exploring the significance of dial discoloration. We will examine the implications for its value, authenticity, and overall condition, touching upon aspects like its history, serial number identification, and the process of determining its worth. We'll also discuss where to find Breitling Navitimer 806 for sale and provide guidance for prospective buyers navigating the complex world of vintage watch collecting.
The Missing Breitling: A Sign of Trouble?
The absence of the Breitling logo on the dial of a watch claimed to be a Navitimer 806 is a major red flag. While some highly customized or modified watches might lack the logo, it's highly unusual for a genuine Navitimer 806 to be missing this key identifying feature. The logo was a prominent part of the dial design, and its absence strongly suggests one of the following:
* Counterfeit: This is the most serious possibility. The watch market is rife with counterfeits, and the Navitimer 806, with its desirability and high value, is a prime target. A missing logo is a significant clue indicating a fake. Further investigation, involving a qualified watchmaker or an expert in vintage Breitlings, is crucial.
* Dial Replacement: The dial might have been replaced at some point, perhaps due to damage or wear. A replacement dial might not include the Breitling logo, either due to sourcing difficulties or intentional alteration. This scenario is less common but still possible. Authenticity would need to be confirmed through other means, such as the movement and case markings.
* Extremely Rare Variant (Highly Unlikely): While highly unlikely, there's a minuscule chance that a genuine Navitimer 806 exists with a missing logo due to some extremely rare factory defect or a unique, undocumented variation. This possibility is extremely improbable and would require extensive research and verification.
Dial Discoloration: Water Ingress and its Consequences
Regardless of the presence or absence of the Breitling logo, dial discoloration on a Navitimer 806 is a serious issue. It often indicates water ingress, a problem exacerbated by the fact that many vintage Navitimers, including the 806, have a low or zero water resistance (WR) rating. Water entering the watch case can cause several problems:
* Corrosion: Water can react with the watch's internal components, leading to corrosion of the movement, dial, and hands. This corrosion can significantly impact the functionality and longevity of the watch.
current url：https://qrtczf.e812z.com/bag/navitimer-806-no-breitling-on-the-dial-25378