BREGUET CLASSIQUE

WHY THIS WATCH

A Masterclass in Subtlety and Old-School Watchmaking 

Breguet is a brand that you really have to look at in a closer and deeper way to appreciate. This watch is a perfect example. At first glance this is a simple, time-only dress watch with a plain dial. What's so remarkable about this watch to justify the $21,000 retail price?  

It's All about the Dial 

The dial here is a perfect example of Breguet's approach to watchmaking. This dial is a Grand Feu "Great Fire" Enamel. The way this dial is made is an extremely time-consuming process in which layers of enamel are added to the dial, which then gets heated in a fire to cast the layers in the place. The base layer alone can contain up to 8 layers. If one mistake is made, the enamel can crack and the entire dial must be thrown out. Are the results worth it? Yes, they are, and you gotta see an enamel dial in person to appreciate it. The dial on this watch is can be described as "Whiter than White" or "Pure White". It's just something special that you can't get any other way. Also, enamel never loses it's luster. Just take a look at the catalogs of vintage watches with enamel dials to see how well this type of dial ages. 

Take a look at the subdial on this watch, and notice how it sinks effortlessly, with no transition edge. I have no idea how this was done. The aforementioned dial is the perfect backdrop for those gorgeous blued hands and hand painted black Breguet numerals. 

Slim Case

The first thing you notice when strapping this on, besides the standout dial, is how slim this watch is. At only 6.5mm thick, this watch is very thin and comfortable despite being 40mm. You also have a cool fluted middle section that adds some contrast to the case.

Calibre 502.35D

Breguet certainly isn't a slouch when it comes to movements. This watch is powered by the Calibre 502.35D, which is an ultra slim automatic movement with a 45 Hour Power Reserve. Flipping the watch over you'll notice the movement is beautifully decorated with beveled bridges, Guilloche, Cotes de Geneve, and polished wheels/screws. While this movement is not going to win any awards for innovation, it's a very finely finished and slim movement that's going to provide reliable timekeeping. 

Wrist Impressions

This watch has such a simple and elegant look and feel. It's truly a dress watch par excellence. What I love most about this dial besides the enamel is it's legibility. There's no subdials (other than the offset seconds) to block your view of the hour and minute hands. Also, the wood on the box is really outstanding, and was a nice suprise.

THE LITTLE DETAILS

Watch was purchased from an Breguet AD in 2018 and was worn sparingly. Case and bracelet are around 90%, with very minor wear throughout. Watch is running strong. Comes with all you see in the pictures, including beautiful elm wood box, outer cardboard box, manuals and warranty paperwork. 

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address.