Breguet manufactured many superlative chronographs over its long history - from the collectible and sought after Type XX, made for the French navy in the 1950s, to more complicated chronograph models with triple calendar functions. The present lot in stainless steel is a rarity in Breguet’s mid-20th century wristwatches since most known examples of Breguet chronographs with calendar and moonphase are cased in gold. Hardly ever seen, it is an exceptionally rare watch that may only be seen once a generation.
Manufactured in 1948, and sold to M. Milleret in Paris on September 4, 1952, this unusual and beautiful Breguet timepiece shares a similar movement to Rolex’s Dato Compax model, also known as the “Jean-Claude Killy”. While the Rolex models featured a Valjoux 72C caliber, Breguet used the Valjoux caliber 88, which is a modified 72C caliber with additional moonphase complication. The purity and equilibrium of the dial also draws comparison to other horological greats, where a keen observer can see similarities to Patek Philippe’s iconic 1518 and 2499 references.
Breguet’s N°267 has its own charm and charisma. The large case with its strong lugs and convex bezel is fitted with a lovely dial with blue tachometer scale and red calendar indications. The result is a practical, highly complicated wristwatch with an elegant and sophisticated appeal. Furthermore, to the best of our knowledge, this is the only non-military Breguet timepiece featuring luminous markers and hands. Preserved in superb, untouched condition, it’s an exciting timepiece certain to delight even the most discriminating connoisseur.