The Watch: In the 1980's, under the guide of watchmaking legend Daniel Roth, Breguet popularized the tourbillon as a modern indicator of high luxury. Today, when nearly every model launch can be expected to include a limited edition tourbillon version for an outlandish price, it can be surprising to realize that this is because of Roth in the 1980's.
After the ownership's bankruptcy and Roth's departure, Breguet spent time in the 90's wilderness releasing sub-Roth (though still beautifully finished) designs under the ownership of Investigroup (the name drips artistry) before being acquired by Swatch Group in 1999. Which brings us to the model here, The Tradition.
Launched in 2005 as one of the first major releases in the Swatch Group's tenure, inspired by the souscription and tact watches created by Abraham Louis Breguet, the Tradition line serves a similar purpose to the Roth tourbillon: conjuring the finely-finished steampunk aesthetic of 18th century watchmaking in a modern context.
The watch winds with a satisfyingly chunky click as the balance wheel comes to life and begins pumping power through the gear train. All of it is visible on the dial side of the watch, and everything is finished to the highest standards. This is an example of in-house watchmaking at every level.
The 37mm white gold case exudes traditional Breguet charm, with the coined-edge intact, but the real show is the dial.
Condition: Excellent condition.
Includes: Watch, box, papers. Strap is aftermarket. Buckle is original.
