zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

: Hey Omega Ladies & Gents (although probably
: more of the later)... Tyler here.

: A few weeks back, I posted a couple of
: questions regarding the toughest Omega
: watch, and received some very helpful
: information regarding water resistance,
: shock resistance, and potential movements...
: needless to say, the Omega Seamaster Quartz
: looks pretty appealing on all fronts.

: Now that I know what Omega model might work
: best, I thought to compare it to some other
: models. The toughest competition would be
: from the Breitling Aeromarine Colt (Quartz
: of course).

: Given that both models are quite similar, can
: anyone offer any advice beyond which model I
: "like" more? Does either watch
: have reliability issues that I should be
: aware of?

: Any information would be great... especially if
: you have any experience with Breitling
: watches.

: Take 'er easy...

The Breitling costs more than the SMP quartz by about $350, but it has an extra 200 meters of water resistance and an anti-reflective coating on both sides of the crystal. To some people, the outer AR coating is a nuisance since it scratches easier than the crystal itself. Many Planet Ocean owners have actually removed their outer coatings intentionally to get rid of the scratches. The Breitling is also thicker because of its extra water resistance, so you may find that the SMP sits on your wrist more comfortably. Also, if you don't plan to do any diving with the watch, I doubt that extra 200 meters of water resistance will matter to you.

Breitling does COSC certify their quartz movements, which adds to the cost of the watch. The Breitling is a certified chronometer while the Omega is not. However, given the incredible accuracy of high end Swiss quartz movements like these, I wouldn't expect you to notice much, if any, difference between the two watches in terms of accuracy. Breitling certifies their quartz watches simply because they want to sell only COSC certified chronometers, be they quartz or automatic.

As Michael said, I'd suggest you look at both in person and choose the one that looks and feels best to you. You'll be getting a precision Swiss quartz movement with either watch, so I wouldn't let the movement be the deciding factor.

Also, just to clarify, the SMP quartz models in black and electric blue (models 2264.50 and 2265.50) retail for $1700, as does the older Bond SMP quartz model 2541.80. The newer Bond SMP quartz model 2221.80 retails for $1850 since it has the applied dial markers and longer hands. The Breitling retails for $2050.

Good luck with your decision,
John