zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

: Definitely get the new X-33 which was improved
: and re-styled for 2003. you may want to
: consider getting a Breitling because
: personally I think the X-33 looks like crap.
: make sure you see one on your wrist before
: buying; don't just choose based on pictures
: on the internet.

I just sold my Breitling Aerospace (1997 edition) to buy me an X-33 new version.
I was always very pleased with the Aerospace, it never failed on me but it's ergonomics are NOT very spectacular. You can read the hour from a distance, BUT
1) You can't use any of the digital functions in darkness; no backlight.
2) The alarm is too weak.
3) It is very hard to pull the crown to acces some functions when the watch is on the wrist.
4) It is even harder to change data by turning the crown when the watch is on the wrist.
5) The quarter-hour tabs on the rotating bezel serve as hooks; they get stuck in pull-overs and shirts all the time.
6) A Breitling isn't very descrete; Here in Belgium nobody knows the X-33, nobody asks questions.

I did some serious research on the X-33 because this watch was the only watch that would serve better. The Breitling B-1 didn't come to mind because of it's material (Stainless steel; allergic reactions to nickel) and its much too glossy look. I think Breitling has many beautiful style features which make a Breitling a Breitling, but sometimes some Breitlings are way "over-breitling-ed", just as this sentence is :-) .
The dial of the B-1 looks like brushed metal. I don't like that. A toolwatch shouldn't be too shiny. The first type of X-33 is also way too shiny.

The X-33 new version is what it should have been like 5 years ago. Try one on your wrist. Either you like, either you don't. That will stay personal taste. But if you are looking for a tool watch that is none plastic and has descent sychronised hands, the X-33 is the watch to go for. It glows MUCH brighter than the Aerospace.
I can't imagine swapping back to the Breitling.
I just love the X-33!

Greetings from Belgium
Frank