Spotlight on: Breguet

The name “Breguet” is rooted in history as far as luxury watches go. The French company made its first wrist watch in 1810 (although it was actually founded in 1775 by Abraham-Louis Breguet) and its products are still recognized as one of the leaders in terms of luxury watches today, right up there along the lines with companies such as Rolex. Currently, Breguet manufacturers its products in Switzerland, having relocated from its France-based roots.

With origins dating back to 1775, you might think that Breguet watches have a significance, both in terms of history and innovation, linked to them. And you would be right. Today, Breguet watches are recognized by their coin-edge cases and blue-colored hands. These hands are commonly referred to today simply as “Breguet hands.” But there’s more historical significance attached to these watches. For instance, it’s Type XX XXI watches for men are based on pilot watches from the second World War. There’s also a notable cast of historical figures that have donned Breguet watches, including Louis XVI, Napoleon Bonaparte, King George III, Winston Churchill, and more recently, Edward VIII. Breguet doesn’t just manufacture watches for men, but it also features a line of women’s watches as well.

As far as innovation goes, Breguet watches are best known for spearheading the implementation of the The tourbillon was developed in the late 1700s by Breguet founder Abraham-Louis Breguet. Specifically, the development was a way for watches to counter the effects of gravity so that time telling would not be altered. As time progressed and technology improved, the tourbillon no longer became required in watches. However, many Breguet watches still are made with the tourbillon in them, not so much as a time-telling compliment, but as a symbol of watchmaking prowess.

Breguet luxury watches, depending on the style and make, cost anywhere from thousands of dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.

Scott C for Raymond Lee Jewelers, premiere fine jewelry and luxury watch boutique and buyer.