Since 1755, Breguet has been a symbol of luxury, exquisite horology, and a true love for the art of watchmaking. Pioneering some of the world's first watch designs and complications, the brand never ceases to amaze watch lovers around the world. Today, it is recognised as one of the oldest watch companies still in existence, renowned for creating timepieces that blend tradition with the latest technological advancements. Keep reading as I go into the extraordinary history of the brand and their breathtaking collections!
The House of Breguet: A History of Luxury
Founded in 1755 in the city of Paris, France, Breguet rose to luxury and has remained at the forefront of horological innovation. Young, newly qualified apprentice, Abrham-Louis Breguet began is workshop in the mid 1750’s and quickly let his passion and creativity flow.
As the French Revolution came to an end, Breguet began working on new creations in 1975. This is where the story of Breguet watches come to life. Over the next two centuries, Breguet created some of the most remarkable complications, movements, and watch designs that the world has ever seen. Revolutionising the world of horology one watch at a time.
One of the most notable creations from the brand's catalogue in the Reine de Naple collection. Crafted when Carolina Murat, the Queen of Naples in 1810 made a request for a slim, oval timepiece with a repeater complication that can be worn on the wrist. A bracelet of woven hair and gold thread. This was completed in 1812 and recorded as the first ever wristwatch in history.
Breguet then went on to design complications such as the moonphase, repeater, and the tourbillon. Establishing Breguet watches as the cornerstone of horology.
Today, the workshops remain in the heart of Valee de Jouxe, Switzerland, where they have been since 1776, however, the family-run business is now owned by The Swatch Group, like many other luxury watch brands.
The Great Creations of Breguet
As I mentioned previously. Breguet is synonymous with creativity. Crafting and perfecting new mechanics and designs that continue to show the world their skill even 2 centuries on.
Abraham-Louis Breguet is the influence for many horologists when refining new horological advancements. 1830 saw the launch of the first self-winding crown.
However, the brand continues to be recognised for one partnership in particular, their relationship with the French Naval Air Army and the Marine nationale, or the La Royale. Appointed by King Louis XVI to ensure the safety of his army, Breguet worked tirelessly to produce precise and highly functional watches. The Type XX was a professional aviation watch designed for skilled pilot’s while the Breguet Marine kept soldiers on time beneath the surface.
The Breguet Collections
Over 250 years of designing, planning, experimenting, and refining have allowed one of the oldest watch brands in the world to curate a wonderful selection of watch collections. Below, I go into what makes these collections truly unique and why you need one in your assortment.
Breguet Type XX
Designed in the 1950’s for the French Naval Airy Army, Breguet Type XX is a modern reinvention of the incredible tool watch. The original invention was crafted in 1735 with enlarged crowns for ease of use with large gloves, self-winding movements, water resistance, and luminous dial elements for enhanced legibility in darker conditions.
The Breguet Type XX XXI XXII Automatic Chronograph is an incredible example of the dedication Breguet are renowned for. Featuring the classic enlarged crown paired with a stainless steel and leather strap. The watch face, radiant in its subtle yet striking colour, enhances the analogue display, providing both clarity and elegance. This timepiece does more than just tell time; it tells a story of horological mastery.
Breguet Marine
Rooted in traditional Breguet values, the Marine collection is given a modern twist, resulting in a diverse array of classic, diving-inspired watches with various complications. Among the most popular models is the Big Date, which, true to its name, boasts a large date window at the 6 o’clock position.
The Breguet Marine Self-Winding is a unique timepiece with a sturdy stainless steel or 18ct rose gold case. However, the dial has a gorgeous hand engraving feature that depicts the waves of open ocean. Complete with Roma numeral hour markers, triple sub dials, and a comfortable rubber strap.
The Breguet Marine has been reinvented for the modern gentleman. Showcasing sophistication paired with a causal ambience.
Breguet Tradition
Paying homage to the heritage and legacy of Breguet, the Breguet Tradition displays the exceptional quality and methods refined by the brand. Blending techniques of the past with visionaries of the future, each Tradition watch embraces the impact of change while honouring the moments of the past.
The Breguet Tradition Automatic is a powerful model. With an open-heart watch face you can see the movement in action. The slightly smaller dial creates a refined appearance while the leather bracelet embraces luxury.
Breguet Reine de Naples
1810-1812 saw the production of the Breguet Reine de Naples watch. Documented as the worlds first watch sporting an oval dial with a bracelet crafted from hair and gold. This unique timepiece was constructed for the Queen of Naples and inspired the revolution of the watch making industry.
Breguet Reine de Naples Self Winding is a beautiful timepiece. The unique oval dial paired with a diamond set bezel is an unusual yet works wonderfully to completment any outfit. Complete with a soft satin bracelet, this Reine de Naples watch is a symbol of opulence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Breguet A Luxury Brand?
As one of the oldest watch brands in the world, Breguet has crafted some of the most influential movements in the industry. They use the finest materials and technologies, allowing them to be classified as a luxury watch brand.
How Do I Know My Breguet Watch is Real?
To authenticate your Breguet watch, simply turn it over. All Breguet watches have the icnoic "secret signature" etched into the dial that can only be seen in the correct lighting. Any Breguet watch with the "Breguet à Paris" is not an authentic model. You will also be gifted a Certificate of Authenticty when you purchase your watch from an offocial Breguet retailer such as Chisholm Hunter.
Do Breguet Use Inhouse Movements?
Yes, Breguet have been using their own inhouse movements since their creation in 1755 and have even created some incredible movements that are now common for other brands throughout the industry.
Who Owns Breguet?
In the early 2000's, Breguet were bought over by The Swatch Group who also own other major brands such OMEGA, Longines, and Blancpain. However, Breguet watches are still crafted in the workshops within the Valle de Jouxe, Switzerland.
Breguet has been the pinnacle of horology for generations. Taking risks from the beginning to become one of the best luxury watch brands in the world. This Breguet Watch Buying Guide brings the unique history of such a prestigious brand to the spotlight and showcases the incredible creations they have produced. Explore the Breguet watch collection at Chisholm Hunter and uncover the perfect timepiece to complete your collection.
