Manufacturer: Breguet Year: Circa 1960 Case No: 3531 Model Name: Type XX Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. 225, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Dimensions: 38.5mm. Diameter Signed: Dial signed, case numbered
Catalogue Essay
Introduced in the 1950’s, the French government sought accurate timepieces for their Navy and Air Force, the watch needed to be a flyback chronograph, and while several brands designed watches, the Breguet is the architype.
The present example, sold on February 23, 1960, for 490 francs, is offered in extremely well-preserved condition and has a lovely “tropical” dial that has turned a mocha hue, with original lume plots and hands. The case retains it sharp facets and edges, and is a lovely example of the archetype. Today’s collectors seek watches that are rare and have a historical perspective, the Breguet “Type XX” is a classic example and this chronograph will add value to any collection.
We sincerely thank Montres Breguet and especially M. Emmanuel Breguet, for kindly supplying us with information from their archives.
Established in 1775 by Abraham Louis Breguet, widely considered the greatest watchmaker of all time, the storied brand continues to thrive in the modern era, creating exceptional high-end watches as the Swatch Group's premier prestige brand. Some of the most important and lasting inventions in watchmaking are attributed to Abraham Louis Breguet, including the tourbillon, shock resistance and the use of hammers and gongs employed in nearly all minute repeating watches made since.
Eighteenth and nineteenth century Breguet pocketwatches are especially sought-after by collectors, and many of them were made for the elite of European society, including Napoléon and Marie Antoinette. Key wristwatches from the twentieth century include oversized dress watches, two-register chronographs, triple calendars and Type XX aviator's chronographs made for the French military and civilians.