Breitling - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIII Hong Kong Thursday, November 25, 2021 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Breitling
    Year: 1961
    Reference No: 807
    Case No: 937’740
    Model Name: SuperOcean
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. Venus 175, 17 Jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel bracelet, max length 180mm
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel deployant clasp
    Dimensions: 39mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Literature: A similar example of reference 807 prominently illustrated in FERO-150 Steel Chronographs by Pucci Papaleo, pp.62-63

  • Catalogue Essay

    In 1950s, a surge of demand for diver’s watches begun during the increase of scientific explorations of the seas and booming of nautical leisure activities. To answer the demand, the leading manufacture of aviation time instruments, Breitling, stepped into the scene with the simultaneous launch of two ground breaking diving wristwatches named the SuperOcean: a time-only ref. 1004 and a chronograph ref. 807. Making its mark on the map amongst the offerings by Rolex, Blancpain and Omega in 1957, the SuperOcean is cased in large 39mm diameter stainless steel boasting 200m water resistance with a distinctive design. Fitted with a concave revolving bezel design and elongated lugs for best comfort, the ref. 807 features an industry first to employ white registers against the black dial, furthermore the luminous indexes borrows Art Deco inspiration which fortify its unique personality and good looks.

    The present SuperOcean ref. 807 chronograph is most probably one of the rarest dive chronographs to appear in the market as it is only made in very few quantities and rarely does an example grace the auction room. The reference was also prominently illustrated in the FERO – 150 Steel Chronographs book by one of the foremost watch collectors, scholars and authors in the world, Pucci Papaleo. Preserved in an absolutely outstanding condition with a clean dial and beautiful warm patina on the lumes. Combined with its state of preservation and rarity, the present specimen is surely an uber rare chance to acquire this first iteration of the diver’s chronograph by Breitling.

  • Artist Biography

    Breitling

    Swiss • 1884

    The firm started by Leon Breitling in 1884 is best known for its technical aviation and oceanic watches. Today, all models are outfitted with certified chronometer movements, used for accurate timing. Early aviation pioneers in specialized chronograph timepieces, Breitling introduced the circular slide rule to watches in the 1940s for use by pilots. The firm’s most iconic chronograph, the Navitimer, was introduced in 1954 and continues to be manufactured today. Another key model is the Duograph, a split-seconds chronograph that was Breitling's most prestigious wristwatch during the 1940s through '60s. Their watches are built on their reputation for precision and sturdiness.

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Property from a Japanese Collector

831

Ref. 807
An extremely rare, highly attractive and well-preserved stainless steel diver’s chronograph wristwatch with black dial, revolving bezel and bracelet

1961
39mm diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
HK$160,000 - 240,000 
€17,600-26,500
$20,500-30,800

Sold for HK$403,200

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
WatchesHK@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIII

Hong Kong Auctions 25-26 November 2021