I have been looking into the tradition models with the grey anthracite movements, specifically the 7027.
I found a used one in a local store, and upon inspection, I found several parts of the movement becoming discolored to dark brownish hue around the edges (which made me hinder from buying).
I thought this was due to some unusual abuse, possibly through inappropriate treatment upon overhaul.
But looking through photos on the Web, I found other units with similar discoloration, such as this one:
Messages: 2 Location: Switzerland
Registered: April 2019
Re: tradition (grey models) discoloration/patina
Wed, 10 April 2019 07:37
Hi Meishicard,
First time I saw those discolored models, I thought this was due to some sort of reflection on the pictures (never saw it in real life) but your comment seems to indicate the opposite.
There are indeed other models on the Internet with similar discoloration notably this one: [word removed].ch/watch/6I7V30
I think this is due to the treatment applied to the watch, based on Forbes article "Breguet's Tradition Collection Celebrates Its 10th Anniversary", the anthracit color is made via NAC finish:
Three other variations of the watch were created: one has a rose gold case with rose gold-plated finish, the other two have a white gold or rose gold case powered by a movement with a mat gray NAC finish, a surface treatment that deposits a charcoal-gray alloy of precious metals from the platinum family through electroplating.
Yet, this technology is not completely mature and even the Swiss manufacturers recognize it, please refer to my attachment below. I translate to English for non-French speaker. Due to a change in REACH standard in 2012, it is forbidden to use chrome in platinium/ruthenium treatment via electroplating. We tried to change the recipe but encountered huge problems with corrosion on the timepieces. We finally found a new treatment which can withstand up to 7 days of tropical climate!
Given that statement, I think this is more a watch designed for customers being located in Switzerland or Russia rather than South East Asia...
Now it would be interesting to know what Breguet Service Center would say about such corroded/discolored movements. Would they accept to change parts or would they explain that is part of the tropical dial trend we've been seeing on Rolex.
Neming, thank you for your comment and information.
I am afraid I cannot inquire Breguet's Service Center to see how they would respond because I have not acqired any model with anthracite treatment.
Anyhow, there may be possibilities that Breguet has improved the treatment without notice on recently manufactured pieces.
Messages: 2 Location: Switzerland
Registered: April 2019
Re: tradition (grey models) discoloration/patina
Fri, 12 April 2019 17:40
Hi,
I will be able to tell you soon. I have won a breguet 7027 anthracite recently in an auction and I will receive it in a few days. I have some discolored spots and I will enquire to Breguet boutique what they can do about it. I will keep you posted on their decision.
As you were saying, I haven't came across any 7057 models with the discoloration so it might be that they improved their process over time. Feel free to contact me in case you want macro shots once I get my watch to secure your decision over 7027 acquisition.
