Breitling Chronograph Repair in Geneva – Mechanical Watch Overhaul by Our Geneva Watchmaking Workshop
This elegant Breitling Premier chronograph was entrusted to our Geneva watchmaking workshop for a full mechanical overhaul following major chronograph malfunctions and irregular timekeeping.
The owner reported:
- Irregular timekeeping
- Chronograph reset malfunction
- Reduced amplitude
- Minute counter jumping
- No complete service for several years
Before any intervention, our watchmakers carried out a full Witschi timing analysis, amplitude measurement, and complete mechanical inspection to determine the condition of the movement and chronograph module.
Initial Diagnosis
During inspection, several major technical issues were identified.
Barrel and Power Transmission Issues
- Broken barrel spring hook
- Excess play in the barrel arbor
- Reduced tension affecting the ratchet wheel
- Loss of torque transmission
Chronograph Module Malfunctions
- Incorrect chronograph bridge screws (conical instead of flat)
- Excessive play in escapement wheel
- Minute counter jewel misaligned
- Reset hammer adjustment required
- Chronograph control spring screw not properly fitted
- Minute counter jumping during activation
Escapement & Regulation Problems
- Hairspring flatness defect
- Beat error present
- Excessive shake in gear train
- Pallets required repositioning
Wear & Aging
- Old degraded lubricants
- Internal friction due to dried oils
- Signs of long-term mechanical fatigue
The timing machine results at reception confirmed unstable amplitude and inconsistent performance across positions.
These findings made a complete mechanical watch overhaul in Geneva absolutely necessary.
Work Performed – Full Service in Geneva
Our certified watchmakers carried out a complete restoration following Swiss manufacture standards.
✔️ Complete Disassembly of the Movement
Every component was carefully dismantled, inspected under magnification, and measured for tolerances.
✔️ Replacement of Defective Components
✔️ Ultrasonic Cleaning
✔️ Technical Lubrication
✔️ Precision Regulation
✔️ Final Witschi Testing
Results After Complete Overhaul
After intervention in our Geneva watchmaking workshop:
✔️ Restored amplitude
✔️ Smooth chronograph start/stop/reset
✔️ Stable minute counter function
✔️ Optimized power transmission
✔️ Improved rate precision
✔️ Balanced beat error
✔️ Preserved case aesthetics
This Breitling Premier chronograph has now regained its original mechanical performance and reliability.
Possible Causes of the Issues
Why did these problems occur?
- Lack of regular servicing (beyond 5 years)
- Natural aging of lubricants
- Mechanical fatigue of the barrel spring
- Repeated chronograph usage without maintenance
- Micro-shocks affecting regulation
- Improper prior repairs (incorrect screws found)
Regular servicing of a Geneva mechanical watch is essential to preserve accuracy and avoid more expensive repairs.
Recommendations from Our Geneva Watchmakers
To preserve your Breitling chronograph:
✔️ Complete service every 4–5 years
✔️ Annual water-resistance test
✔️ Avoid operating chronograph pushers underwater
✔️ Protect the watch from strong impacts
✔️ Address any reset irregularity immediately
Why Choose Our Watchmaking Atelier in Geneva?
We specialize in:
✔️ Watch Repair Geneva – All Swiss brands
✔️ Complete Chronograph Service
✔️ Mechanical Watch Overhaul Geneva
✔️ Advanced Professional Diagnostics
✔️ Precision Regulation & Restoration
✔️ Certified Water-Resistance Testing
Our expertise guarantees service compliant with Swiss horological standards.
