Breitling 178-Cal.170-anni'40 - Men - 1900-1949

Rare Breitling 178, cal. Venus 170, from the 1940s.
As you can see, a watch with a vintage flavor taken to the extreme.
Another Venus caliber with vertical counters, one of the characteristics of Breitling watches from that era, which sets them apart from practically all the other calibres with this feature.
The case is steel and the watch is chromed steel, but in those years chrome plating was an innovation and even some major brands used it to coat the steel of the watch, not being able to predict the inevitable long-term effects (but we can know them having had firsthand evidence).
Leather strap, selected, handmade in Louisiana, new.
The aesthetic condition, in my view, is more than good, considering the age of the watch; the dial has very few signs of use and a patina that mostly gives it charm, the signs of wear are mainly on the chromed lugs and the chronograph pushers.
If you wish, the chrome plating can be redone; I suggest leaving it as is, but you will of course be free to choose whatever you prefer.
Regarding the operating condition, the watch runs very well (chronograph included and a video of over a minute available on request). Note that the upper chronograph pusher is slightly stiff, but really a minor issue that I mention only to avoid any disputes (it starts perfectly and resets perfectly), while the lower pusher is very sensitive and just a light push is enough to operate its function.
Be careful not to over-wind the mechanism; these watches are highly valuable collectibles and more, but they are old and very delicate, and must be treated with great care.
It may require lubrication or cleaning, but I repeat, it works very well.
Rare for collectors or investment, but also absolutely wearable.
I always consider whether to offer the items even if the reserve price is not met, of course if the resulting figures are reasonable.