zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

: Your answers have more than helped, Georges. I
: appreciate your very detailed reply. The
: specific Breitling I was looking at has the
: Breitling 23 movement. It is just the
: standard size Navitimer, black face with
: silver subdials. From what I have read, this
: model contains the Valjoux 7750 movement as
: its base.

: As for the Omega chronographs, I would probably
: get the Seamaster 300M chronograph if I
: needed that function. However, I am a big
: fan of the co-axial movement since my
: DeVille keeps better time than any watch I
: have ever owned. That's why I am leaning
: toward the PO or the Bond GMT.

Hi John,

One doesn't buy the Navitimer or the Bond SeMPC because of it's movement. In both cases, the movements are rugged and reasonably accurate but neither will ignite any fires with "movement snobs".

One buys the Navitimer because of it's connection to aviation, it's wonderfully detailed and finished dial and top notch bracelet; and it's a *classic*. And damn, it just looks good. And this thing really looks good on a leather strap. However, I tend to stay away from dials that are that busy simply because my eyes are not that good!

One buys the Bond SeMPC because of it's water rating, the Bond look/connection, and the fact that you can use the pushers under water and to the full W/R. But the dial work on this watch cannot match the Navitimer, nor can the bracelet. And it just will never look as good on a leather strap. But it is one heck of a diver's watch, which the Navitimer is not!

As for the Seamaster 300M chronographs with the 33XX movements, you get a more "interesting" movement (though I'm sure you are aware of the problems that these have had).

The PO and the Bond GMT are both great because of the coaxial escapements, and each has it's own "look". And, they are divers! But I do not see them as direct competitors for the Navitimer.

While the particular movement would be a factor in my own purchasing decision, it would not be the only factor nor would it necessarily be the overriding factor. (A watch is more than just a movement.)

I love the simplicity and the features of the PO. But I also love the Navitimer. (And if it weren't for my eyes, I'd own a Navitimer -- I'll soon own a PO.) As for MSRP prices, you should note that in the case of the Navitimer, the bracelet is a big chuck of the price -- if you will always want to wear the watch on leather (and it looks really good on leather), then getting it that way will bring down the MSRP significantly.

Sorry, I'm not much help in this situation.

Best regards