The Breitling B50, with its distinctive design and advanced features, is a popular choice among aviation enthusiasts and watch aficionados alike. A key selling point is its advertised water resistance, a crucial factor for many potential buyers. However, understanding the true implications of this water resistance rating is vital. Water resistance levels are based on the maximum pressure tolerance of a motionless watch in still water at a certain depth (1 bar = 10 m = approx. 33 ft). This measurement provides a baseline, but it does not reflect how *you* use the watch in real-world conditions. This article will delve into the Breitling B50's water resistance capabilities, exploring potential problems, providing guidance via the Breitling B50 manual, and examining the market for pre-owned models, including the coveted Breitling Cockpit B50 Night Mission.
Understanding Breitling B50 Water Resistance:
The specific water resistance rating of your Breitling B50 will be indicated on the watch caseback and in the accompanying documentation. While the rating might be stated as, for example, 100 meters or 300 meters, it’s crucial to remember that this is a laboratory test under ideal conditions. Factors such as temperature fluctuations, impacts, the age of the seals, and the presence of dirt or debris in the crown and pushers can significantly reduce the effective water resistance. Even seemingly minor scratches on the crystal can compromise the seal.
Activities such as swimming, showering, or diving significantly increase the stress on the watch's water resistance. While a 100-meter water resistance rating might seem sufficient for swimming, vigorous activity, rapid changes in water pressure, or prolonged submersion can lead to water ingress. Therefore, it's advisable to treat the water resistance rating as a conservative guideline rather than an absolute guarantee. For serious water sports like scuba diving, a watch with a significantly higher water resistance rating, and ideally one specifically designed for diving, is essential.
Breitling B50 Problems: Common Issues and Troubleshooting:
Like any complex piece of technology, the Breitling B50 can experience issues. While generally robust, some problems have been reported by owners. These include:
* Battery Life: The B50 utilizes a sophisticated quartz movement with various functions. While the battery life is generally good, it's not unlimited. A declining battery can lead to erratic functionality, including problems with the chronograph or the digital display. Regular battery replacements are necessary, and it's advisable to have this done by an authorized Breitling service center to ensure the water resistance remains intact.
* Seal Degradation: Over time, the gaskets and seals that protect the watch from water ingress can degrade. This is accelerated by exposure to chemicals, extreme temperatures, and UV radiation. Regular servicing is crucial to inspect and replace these seals as needed. Ignoring this can lead to water damage, which can be costly to repair.
* Crystal Damage: The sapphire crystal on the B50 is highly scratch-resistant, but it's not indestructible. Significant impacts can crack or chip the crystal, compromising the watch's water resistance and potentially allowing water to enter the case.
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