A Breitling as an investment?

[marcosgt]

I've really liked the Breitling Cosmonaute as a design and a concept (the sweep is 24, not 12 hours) since I first saw an old one in a secondhand watch shop in London and I've just come into a little bit of money and thought that, rather than let it all gather dust in my sub-1% bank account, I'd buy an early Breitling Cosmonaute combining the pleasure of owning one and, hopefully, at least not losing any of my investment in it.

I'm after an early 809 model, ideally the model launched in 1962 (I think that IS the 809, but I'm no expert).

I don't really know where to start, I see them on eBay, but is that a reliable way to buy a watch costing around £2K? How would I get an old Breitling authenticated if I bought off ebay?

Would I really just be treating myself, or would I be likely to get my money back or even make a gain over 10 or 20 years?

Any thoughts?

Thanks.

M.

[hilly10]

Breitling and investment. Two words not uttered together. Not a chance

[GCH]

Yep that is an 809- the model Scott Carpenter wore into space. Great watches and considered one myself a while ago to go with my 60s top times.

Buying a vintage breitling you shouldn't lose money (unlike buying a new one!). I wouldn't class it as an investment as such, but one in decent condition at the right price you shouldn't lose any money on should you sell it in the future.

I would suggest you hop on over to Breitlingsource.com, which has a vintage forum.
The guys on there are incredibly knowledgeable, and pretty much the worlds leading experts on vintage navitimers and comonautes. They will help you out for sure.

Edited by GCH on Friday 3rd August 20:39

[andy_s]

If you choose carefully and do the research then you shouldn't lose out.
Unless you use your own eye and knowledge to pick up a bargain I shouldn't expect heavy returns though.

[marcosgt]

Thanks, I will check out the breitling forum.

Cheers.

M

[Kickstart]

Dear Marcosgt

On a completely non watch related subject I notice you also have a 3litre Marcos - is it a road or race car and how do you find it ?

[F355spider]

Had the misfortune of having to sell/pawn all i owned about 5yrs ago following a messy divorce .. including a couple of roles stainless subs and my lovely Brietling Navitimer.

I think i managed to get £800 for it from a non interested watch trader in the royal arcade. Brietlings, unless v rare) arent good news to traders unfortunately ..