Breitling - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIX Hong Kong Saturday, November 23, 2024 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Breitling
    Year: Circa 1976
    Reference No: 7656
    Case No: 1’440’078
    Model Name: Top Time
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, Valjoux cal. 7736, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel unsigned pin buckle
    Dimensions: 42mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Breitling travelling pouch.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Breitling has long been recognized as an early pioneer in the development of innovative wristwatch chronographs. Their tool watches, such as the iconic 765 AVI, have supplied armed forces worldwide, as well as timepieces catered to racing, diving, and leisure activities.

    In 1965, Breitling launched the reference 7650 Co-Pilot, featuring a large 42mm diameter case and a rotating bi-directional black aluminum bezel with 12-hour markers. This distinctive design inspired the subsequent launch of the reference 7656 Top Time.

    During the fragile market conditions of the 1970s, with the rise of affordable Japanese quartz watches, Breitling decided to introduce a short-production manual chronograph reference, the 7656. The 7656 shared a similar case design to the Co-Pilot 7650, but sported a reverse panda tri-compax layout with an internal tachymeter scale. Powering this chronograph was the Valjoux calibre 7736, one of the best chronograph movements available at the time.

    The fascinating fact about this Breitling 7656 Top Time is that it was never featured in a company catalog or advertisement. Its production span was extremely limited, from 1975 to 1978, making it an exceptionally rare piece within the Breitling chronograph family.

  • 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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865

Lot offered with No Reserve

Ref. 7656
A very rare, attractive and well-preserved stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with black dial, tachymeter scale and revolving bezel

Circa 1976
42mm diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
HK$40,000 - 60,000 
€4,700-7,100
$5,100-7,700

Sold for HK$40,640

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2030
WatchesHK@phillips.com
 

Gertrude Wong
Head of Sale, Hong Kong
+852 2318 2045
gertrudewong@phillips.com
 

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIX

Hong Kong Auction 23 - 24 November 2024