The Breitling crown. A seemingly small component, yet crucial to the functionality and longevity of your prized watch. This unassuming knob, nestled on the case side, is the gateway to setting the time, winding the movement, and ensuring the water resistance of your Breitling timepiece. This article will delve into the intricacies of the Breitling crown, covering its various types, potential issues, replacement procedures, and the importance of proper maintenance. We'll specifically address the nuances of a particular "new old stock" waterproof O-ring style hinged crown, suitable for 1970s Breitling Navitimer stainless steel cases.
Understanding the Breitling Crown's Role
The crown isn't merely an aesthetic element; it's the mechanical interface between you and your watch's movement. It's connected to the stem, a slender shaft that extends through the case back, engaging with the winding mechanism and the setting mechanism within the movement. When you turn the crown, you're directly manipulating these internal components, allowing you to wind the mainspring (providing power to the watch) and adjust the hands to set the time. Furthermore, the crown's design plays a crucial role in maintaining the watch's water resistance.
The Significance of "New Old Stock"
The description "new old stock" (NOS) indicates that this particular Breitling crown is unused and has been stored since its original manufacture. This is significant for several reasons:
* Authenticity: NOS parts guarantee authenticity, eliminating the risk of counterfeit components that could compromise the watch's integrity.
* Condition: A NOS crown is likely to be in pristine condition, free from wear and tear, ensuring optimal performance and a perfect fit.
* Material Integrity: The materials used in older Breitling crowns might differ slightly from modern equivalents. Using a NOS crown preserves the original material composition and ensures compatibility with vintage movements.
The Waterproof O-Ring Style Crown
The crown in question is described as a waterproof O-ring style. This design incorporates a rubber O-ring (or similar gasket) that seals the crown tube, preventing water from entering the watch case. The effectiveness of this seal is paramount for maintaining the watch's water resistance. A damaged or deteriorated O-ring can lead to water ingress, potentially damaging the movement. The O-ring's condition should be regularly checked by a qualified watchmaker.
Hinged Crown Mechanism
The hinged aspect of the crown adds another layer of complexity and functionality. While many crowns are simply screwed down or pushed in, a hinged crown offers a more refined and often more secure mechanism. This hinge allows the crown to be easily pulled out for time setting and winding, yet it provides a more robust seal when pushed back into its closed position, contributing to enhanced water resistance. The hinge mechanism itself requires careful handling and maintenance to prevent damage.
Breitling Navitimer Crowns: A Specific Case
The crown's suitability for 1970s Breitling Navitimer stainless steel cases highlights the importance of part specificity. Breitling, like many high-end watch manufacturers, uses different crown designs across its various models and production years. A crown intended for a Navitimer from the 1970s might not be compatible with a newer model or a different Breitling watch line. The dimensions, thread pitch, and stem engagement are crucial factors in ensuring a proper fit and function. Attempting to install an incorrect crown can lead to damage to the case, the stem, or even the movement itself.
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