The exquisite engineering of a Breitling watch is worthy of the same careful attention in maintenance and upkeep. A good watch winder is not only a decoration but also a tool that safeguards your investment. Positioning your Breitling watch winder properly keeps your watch on time and extends the mechanical lifespan of your watch.
As Breitling owners will attest, these Swiss masterpieces are precision engineering at its best. If you’ve purchased a Navitimer, Superocean, or Chronomat, periodic winding keeps the delicate movement intact and has your watch ready to go whenever you are. Below is step-by-step guidance to walk you through all there is to learn about how to optimize your Breitling watch winder setup for maximum longevity.
Understanding Your Breitling Watch’s Winding Needs
Before diving into specific winder settings, it’s important to understand why proper winding matters for your Breitling timepiece.
Why Mechanical Watches Need Winding
Mechanical watches, including all Breitling watches, possess a wound mainspring that powers the movement. Under normal circumstances, the daily wear on your wrist keeps your mainspring wound through the self-winding mechanism. When your watch is removed from your wrist, the mainspring unwinds slowly and eventually causes the watch to run down.
This is where a high-quality Breitling watch winder can be of assistance. It replicates the same natural rotation you would get through your wrist but maintains the mainspring nicely wound even when you’re not present.
Breitling’s Movements
Other Breitlings use other movements, each with their own distinct winding requirement:
- B01 Movement: Used on most Chronomat and Navitimer watches, this in-house movement has some 70 hours of power reserve
- B20 Movement: Derived from Tudor’s MT5612, found on Superocean Heritage watches with a power reserve of approximately 70 hours
- Valjoux 7750: Found in most chronograph watches with a power reserve of approximately 42-44 hours
- ETA 2824-2: Found in some of the older watches with a power reserve of approximately 38-40 hours
Understand what movement drives your particular Breitling to determine the optimal winding parameters.
Picking the Right Breitling Watch Winder
The key to good watch care is starting with a quality winder. All watch winders are not created equal, and your Breitling heirloom deserves some consideration.
Features to Consider
When buying a Breitling watch winder, consider the following features:
- Adjustable TPD (Turns Per Day): Breitling movements have varying winding needs. Choose winders with adjustable TPD options between 650-1950 TPD.
- Rotation Direction Options: Bi-directional winding best replicates the natural rotation of your wrist. Make sure your winder has clockwise, counterclockwise, and alternating rotation options.
- Silent Operation: Well-made winders wind silently, maintaining the quiet environment of your bedroom or study.
- Cushion Fit: Your Breitling should fit tightly into your winder but neither too loose nor too tight.
- Power Options: Determine if you want battery power (portable) or AC power (steady but is subject to availability of an outlet).
Single or Multi Watch Winders
A single Breitling can be stored if you own just one. However, timepiece collectors owning multiple timepieces find the multi-watch winders convenient due to saved space usage. Those enjoying separate winders for each timepiece enjoy increased winding option control.
Budget Considerations
Although quality Breitling watch winders are not cheap, they are a smart investment to safeguard your watch. Be prepared to pay between $200-$800 for a good single-watch winder with the features it needs to ensure proper care of your Breitling.
Ideal Settings for Your Breitling Watch Winder
Properly setting up your watch winder is very important in keeping your Breitling in its prime condition and accuracy.
Discovering the Ideal TPD (Turns Per Day)
Most Breitling automatics need 650-1000 TPD to wind best. Below are some general guidelines on what the most popular Breitling movements need:
- B01/B20 Movements: 800-900 TPD
- Valjoux 7750: 800-950 TPD
- ETA 2824-2: 650-800 TPD
If in doubt, refer to your particular model’s manual or call Breitling customer service for precise instructions.
Rotation Direction Matters
Breitling watches wind in a preferential bi-directional manner. That is, the winder winds clockwise to counterclockwise. This direction most closely mimics natural wrist movement and puts the least amount of stress on the winding mechanism.
If your winder is not bi-directional, refer to your particular Breitling model’s winding direction. Some of the newer Breitling calibers are bi-directional, but some of the older ones have directional biases.
Rest Periods
Good-quality winders have downtime during their winding cycles. It avoids overwinding and is closer to the actual rhythm of wearing a watch. Choose winders that operate for a few minutes, then remain idle for a while before resuming.
Placement and Environment
Your placement of your Breitling watch winder impacts the health of your timepiece significantly.
Choosing a Location
Position your Breitling watch winder:
- Away from sunlight to avoid dial fade and possible temperature fluctuation
- In dry state to avoid damage due to moisture
- Away from intense magnetic field that may influence accuracy
- On firm, stable base to avoid malfunctioning
- In safe location, out of reach from possible stealing
Temperature and Humidity Control
Mechanical watches function optimally in steady environments. Locate your Breitling watch winder in a room where there is:
- Temperature between 65-72°F (18-22°C)
- Relative humidity 40-60%
- Minimum variation in temperature
Suggest installation of a humidity control solution in spaces that are likely to be damp.
Security Considerations
As big of an investment as Breitling is, security can be considered when choosing where to put your winder. Some high-end watch winders include security features such as fingerprint reading or lock devices. Or, store your winder in a home safe during holidays.
Caring for Your Breitling Watch Winder
Take care of your watch winder properly in order to maintain it in the state in which it provides your Breitling with optimal conditions.
Clean Maintenance
And functionality of your winder and transferability to your watch can be adversely affected by dust and dirt. Your Breitling watch winder needs to be cleaned regularly with:
- Microfiber to clean exterior finishes
- Compressed air (sparingly used) to blow out mechanisms of dust
- Gentle, light cleaners if necessary
Liquid cleaners keep electrical components isolated.
Motor Maintenance
The foundation of your watch winder is its motor. For maximum lifespan:
- Adhere to manufacturer instructions for periods of continuous use
- Replace batteries prior to depletion if battery powered
- Monitor for odd noises that may signal mechanical issues
- Schedule frequent professional maintenance on high-end winders
Cushion Care
Your Breitling must have its cushion checked regularly for:
- Correct fit (not tight or loose)
- Signs of wear that can damage your watch
- Debris or dust accumulation
- Winding undulations that can influence winding efficiency
There are a few fantastic winders that offer replacement cushions that are especially made for various types of watches.
Seasonal Changes to Your Breitling Watch Winder
Various seasons may require modifications to your system of winding.
Summer Considerations
At warmer temperatures:
- Make sure your winder is kept out of direct sunlight exposure through a window
- Use lower TPD settings due to watches winding more efficiently in hot temperatures
- Be mindful of humidity control, particularly in damp climates
Winter Adjustments
Cold weather causes other issues:
- Heating the house dries out the air; use a humidifier
- If your winder is next to windows, be mindful of temperature fluctuations
- Battery winders have short battery life when they are cold
Traveling with Your Breitling
The traveler has unique precautions.
Travel Winders
Convenience without performance compromise is offered by portable travel winders for Breitling watches. Watch for:
- Battery power or long-duration charge capacity
- Protection in rugged case
- TSA-friendly designs
- Security features appropriate for the purpose
Alternative Options
If carrying a winder is not convenient, consider:
- Completely winding your Breitling prior to travel
- Keeping your watch on while traveling to preserve winding
- Setting correct time upon arrival at destination
For longer trips, a compact travel winder becomes increasingly important to preserve your watch’s accuracy.
Integrating Your Breitling Watch Winder into a Collection
For those with several timepieces, integration is important.
Rotation Schedules
Not all watches need to be wound at the same time. Put a winder rotation system in place such that:
- Every day use watches get no winder time
- Very complex watches (chronographs, perpetual calendars) receive premium winder time
- Seasonal watches turn winders on/off depending on cycles of use
Display Considerations
Most collectors like to see watch winders with display case ability.
If that tickles your fancy, consider the following:
- LED light solutions that won’t create large amounts of heat
- UV-resistant glass to avoid dial aging
- Attractive design to complement your home decor
Mistakes Not to Make with Your Breitling Watch Winder
Even experienced collectors sometimes make the following mistakes:
Overwinding Issues
Unlike common folklore, newer automatic watches such as Breitling do usually carry some kind of overwinding protection mechanism. But excessive TPD settings consume power and put unnecessary strain on your winder motor.
Directional Mistakes
Winding your winder to turn in a single direction when your Breitling prefers bi-directional winding wastes energy and can result in erratic timekeeping.
Improper Fitment
Utilizing a winder with cushions not specially designed to hold your Breitling firm can result in scratches, bracelet damage, or ineffective winding. Take caution to have your watch lying nicely but not firmly within the winder at all times.
Oversighting Service Intervals
Keep in mind that the use of a watch winder will not abolish periodic servicing for your Breitling watch. Maintain Breitling’s service schedules (usually 5-7 years) irrespective of winder use.
Special Case Procedures for Antique Breitling Watches
Slender older models of Breitling might need special caution measures.
Mainspring Stress
Older vintage pieces prior to the 1990s typically employ mainsprings that will not permit repeated winding. On these watches, consider:
- Lower TPD settings
- Periodic downtime away from the winder
- Referral to the advice of a vintage watch expert
Retention of Historical Authenticity
For collector quality vintage Breitlings, originality is most important. For certain instances, vintage watch experts would suggest avoiding overuse of the winder to maintain originality of movement.
Technology and Intelligent Winders
The new generation of watch winders is more convenient.
App-Controlled Winders
Later Breitling watch winder models are designed with programming and observation through smartphone apps, which facilitate:
- Remote TPD and direction rewrites
- Monitoring winding cycles
- Portable winder alert of battery life
- Programmability by model of watches
Future-Proofing Your Installation
When purchasing a winder system, keep in mind:
- Potential future use as an add-on to future watch purchases
- Firmware updatability
- Updatability to allow replacement of parts
- Consistency of manufacturer and warrantied service repair
Conclusion
Having your Breitling winder properly installed is an investment in the time and performance of your watch. Knowing your specific model’s demands, choosing the proper winder, setting the proper parameters, and keeping the entire system operating under optimal conditions keeps your Breitling performing in its best state on your wrist or stored in its winder.
Keep in mind that a quality Breitling watch winder is not merely a functional tool but also a decorative showcase of your treasured watch. Correct installation and upkeep will have your winder in working order to safeguard your investment while showcasing the craftsmanship that earns Breitling global fame as a watch-making giant.
The effort and time you take in getting it done the correct way are well worth in your Breitling’s true reliability, silk-smooth operation, and long service life. For a accurate clock that’s meant to measure seconds, no better way of showing respect to its craftsmanship than with the same concern for detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much turn per day (TPD) my Breitling watch requires?
Most Breitlings need anywhere from 650-1000 TPD, which will vary on the movement. B01 and B20 movements will typically need 800-900 TPD, and some older ETA movements will require at least 650 TPD. If you’re not certain, refer to your model literature or call Breitling customer service.
Is it safe to wind my Breitling perpetually in a watch winder?
Yes, Breitling watches today can quite happily lie on a suitably set watch winder with no restriction. Overwinding is avoided through the slip clutch that is integrated into the watch, and ongoing rewinding even stimulates maximum circulation of lubricant around the movement.
In which direction should my Breitling watch winder rotate?
The most efficient most recent Breitling watches wind if they rotate bi-directional (clockwise to counterclockwise). This simulates natural wrist rotation and gives it the most effective winding.
Will a watch winder ruin my Breitling over time?
A high-quality watch winder will never harm your Breitling. In fact, it can be an advantage by distributing lubricants and exercised parts evenly. It is only harmed by a poor fit in the cushion of the winder or prolonged exposure to the environment.
How can I tell that my Breitling watch winder is functioning?
The most apparent indication is that your watch maintains good time when you take it out of the winder. Also, if there is a power reserve indicator (if your model has one), it should indicate sufficient power. The winder should also be silent and should not produce any unusual sounds.
Should I invest in a costly watch winder for my Breitling?
Considering the significant amount a Breitling costs, a quality winder is worth it. Quality winders have a tighter hold, less vibration, greater security, and longer life. It is like a watch sentinel.
How frequently should my Breitling be serviced if it remains wound on a winder?
Even with frequent use of a winder, still follow Breitling’s suggested 5-7 year service interval. The winder merely keeps parts moving and does not remove new lubricants or professional servicing.
Can I use a generic watch winder on my Breitling?
While model-specific winders are really not necessary, use any winder you prefer with TPD settings suitable to your particular Breitling model, direction control, and good cushion fit.