The Breguet “Type XX” is arguably the one of the best-known military chronograph. The “type” designation was not a specific model name for any particular brand but rather a military specification commissioned by the French Government, aimed at achieving accurate timekeeping for both their Air Force and Navy. They sought a multi-purpose chronograph wristwatch with a flyback function, allowing the user to quickly reset and restart the chronograph with a single push of a button on the case. Breguet began supplying these models to the French Air Force and Navy in the 1950s.

In addition to its functionality, the caseback provides significant historical context through its engravings and stamps. This example features an inscription starting with “FG”, which stands for “Fin de Garantie”, or end of guarantee in French. These engravings were made by the watchmaker who serviced the watch, informing the pilot of the next recommended service date, in this case, 19th July 1967.

Most notably, from 1956 to 1957, the Centre d’Essais en Vol (CEV) who was responsible for testing aeronautical weapons and aircraft before their use for military or civil purposes, ordered 50 Type XX pieces with three counters. Like the Naval Aviation Forces, the CEV opted for a large 15-minute chronograph counter, but these pieces also included a scaled bezel. The caseback of these models is engraved with “CEV” alongside an issued number.

Offered by a Japanese collector and to further complete the provenance, this watch numbered “CEV 6” is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity confirming the date of sale on 12th December 1956, to the Centre d’Essais en Vol (CEV).