Breguet’s Type XX flyback chronograph was introduced in the early 1950s based on military specifications provided by the French government. They sought a rugged multifunctional chronograph wristwatch with flyback function for use by both their Navy and Air Force. The ‘type’ designation was not a specific model name for a particular brand, but rather it was the military specification commissioned by the French government, which several brands provided. The chronograph needed a flyback mechanism in order for pilots to quickly reset their watches for dead reckoning navigation. Over the ensuring years, the Breguet model has become highly desirable within the vintage collector community, known for its large masculine case, easily readable luminous dial, and its flyback mechanism. As manufacturing costs rose, the French government discontinued its use, however Breguet decided to commercialize it and sell to the general public.

While the military examples were manufactured in stainless steel, the present, extremely rare, yellow gold example is one of only three known made in 1955 as confirmed by the Breguet Certificate accompanying this watch. According to Breguet’s archives, the watch was sold on June 8, 1956 to M. Sambon for the extraordinary price of 115,000 French Francs. A second known example is exhibited in the Breguet Museum in Paris. While their exact use remains unknown, it is unlikely an 18k gold timepiece would have fared well in a harsh military environment. Considering the high price when originally sold it is was therefore likely a special and exclusive edition for a very select clientele.

This watch retains a bold masculine feel. This early, rare and extraordinary example of the Breguet Type XX in yellow gold is sure to provide savvy collectors with many years of enjoyment.