Breguet

Whereas the work of most master watchmakers in the 20th century may be measured in flashes of inspiration, it’s all but impossible to reduce Abraham-Louis Breguet’s horological career to any single moment.

Truly, it is no exaggeration when historians call Breguet the most important horologist to have ever lived. During his lifetime, the Swiss watchmaker pioneered a number of unique innovations vital to modern horology. Among Breguet’s many groundbreaking inventions are the overcoil balance spring (1795); the iconic tourbillon (1801) and the world’s first purpose-built wristwatch (1810).

The sublime quality of Breguet’s work attracted an extremely privileged clientele. During his career, he had been the royally appointed watchmaker to the court of Marie-Antoinette; in addition to crafting pieces for Napoleon Bonaparte and the 1st Duke of Wellington. 

Few brands bear the weight of sheer legacy as heavily as Breguet. Founded in 1775 by the legendary Neuchȃtel watchmaker of the same name, it is one of the oldest watch brands in existence; tracing its roots back to the court of King Louis XVI. The Breguet family operated their namesake business for over a century, until it was acquired by the Brown family in 1870, who would manage it until the arrival of the Quartz Crisis.

In 1976, at the behest of then-owners, the Chaumet brothers, watchmaker Daniel Roth moved Breguet’s production to Le Sentier, where he went on to produce a number of important collectible watches including the Ref. 3350 tourbillon.

Fun fact: in 1992, a few years prior to its takeover by Swatch Group, Breguet acquired the successor company to Lemania - one of the most pivotal movement makers in Switzerland, who had variously supplied to brands including Heuer and Rolex.

Classique Ref. 3130, Tradition Ref. 7047, No. 160 pocket watch, Duc d’Orléans Sympathique