Post by swalk1 on Aug 24, 2020 20:48:05 GMT -6
I purchased a new Breitling Chronomat (Item [HASH]B13050) in December of 1994 at Hamilton Jewelers in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. I have proudly worn the watch almost daily since and have always used Authorized Breiltling Service Centers to work on it, most recently was sent to Breitling last October to be refurbished, several months later I noticed that the gold rider tabs were tarnished. I contacted Breitling and they asked me to send the watch back, they told me that the rider tabs were gold plated and offered to have me pay to have them replaced. After researching the Item number of the watch on-line I have come to understand that the rider tabs on my model came in solid gold. Breitling originally disputed this and later admitted that it was the case. I reached out to Thierry Prissert the president of Breitling USA and after several emails we spoke on the phone where he immediately accused me of looking for a “freebie”. All I asked that was he make this right. After that I was sent a letter from their legal counsel Mr. Budow insisting that my watch be returned. Breitling has now rescinded any offers to repair the watch, refused to repair it and insisted it be returned to me “as is”. Of note, my emails were professional in nature, despite Thierry’s arrogance and insults.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the watch but now find myself disgusted with the company and want anyone to reconsider ownership given that they take zero responsibility for their Authorized Service Centers and ownership of their brand. I also included Georges Kern and partners within CVC Capital Partners responsible for the acquisition and have heard nothing back. I’m at a loss to describe the leadership, I think Leon Breitling would not be proud. That said, Thierry has probably spent more in legal fees than it would have cost to remedy the problem? No more Breitling for me.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the watch but now find myself disgusted with the company and want anyone to reconsider ownership given that they take zero responsibility for their Authorized Service Centers and ownership of their brand. I also included Georges Kern and partners within CVC Capital Partners responsible for the acquisition and have heard nothing back. I’m at a loss to describe the leadership, I think Leon Breitling would not be proud. That said, Thierry has probably spent more in legal fees than it would have cost to remedy the problem? No more Breitling for me.