The allure of a Breitling watch, with its robust construction and sophisticated design, is undeniable. However, the market is unfortunately rife with counterfeit timepieces, making it crucial to understand the nuances of genuine Breitling components, particularly the sapphire crystal lens. This article will explore the complexities surrounding Breitling sapphire crystal lenses, focusing on authentication, replacement options, and the common pitfalls associated with identifying genuine articles versus expertly crafted fakes. We'll also delve into specific examples and address frequently asked questions from online forums and watch repair communities.
The Case in Point: A Suspicious Breitling
The description provided – a watch with a blue bezel, a case back engraved "0885-UT-UFO SWISS MT. SAPPHIRE CRYSTAL LENS. CHRONOMETER," a quartz movement co-pilot module – immediately raises red flags. While Breitling utilizes sapphire crystals and quartz movements in certain models, the combination of features, particularly the "0885-UT-UFO" reference number, is highly unlikely to correspond to an authentic Breitling. This lack of a recognizable model number is a major indicator of a counterfeit. The presence of "UFO" in the reference is particularly suspicious. Genuine Breitling reference numbers follow a consistent and logical structure, usually including a series of alphanumeric characters that correspond to specific models and variations.
99% Sure That's a Fake; But… Why?
The confidence in labeling this watch a fake stems from several key factors:
* Unrecognized Reference Number: As mentioned, the "0885-UT-UFO" reference is not documented in any official Breitling records or reputable watch databases. Breitling has a meticulous cataloging system, and any deviation from this system is a significant warning sign.
* Incongruous Combination of Features: The blend of a blue bezel, the specific case back engraving, and a quartz co-pilot module doesn't align with any known Breitling model. Breitling often uses specific case designs and movement types for particular collections. This mismatch suggests an attempt to mimic elements from various models to create a convincing but ultimately false impression.
* Quartz Movement in a Potentially High-End Model: The mention of a quartz movement is problematic. While Breitling does produce quartz watches, they are generally positioned at a lower price point than their mechanical counterparts. The combination of a sapphire crystal (usually associated with higher-end models) and a quartz movement is unusual and indicative of a counterfeit attempting to leverage the prestige of a sapphire crystal without the expense of a high-quality mechanical movement.
Replacement Sapphire Crystal: A Necessary Evil
Even genuine Breitling watches are susceptible to damage. Scratches, chips, or even complete shattering of the sapphire crystal are possibilities. Replacing a sapphire crystal is a delicate procedure best left to experienced watchmakers. Attempting a DIY repair can result in further damage to the watch.
The cost of replacement varies depending on the watch model and the source of the crystal. Purchasing a replacement crystal from a reputable watch parts supplier is crucial to ensure compatibility and quality. Using a low-quality replacement crystal can compromise the watch's water resistance and overall integrity.
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