Classique Tourbillon Extra-Plat Automatique 5367
Breguet: Classic Modernity at 240 Years Old
It is not always easy to modernize oneself when you are 240 years old. Breguet succeeds in doing so with their characteristic finesse and elegance. Introducing the new Classique and Grand Feu Enamel Tourbillon.
By Benjamin Teisseire
Contributor
This year at Baselworld, the iconic Maison does not forget its DNA and even sublimates it with two mesmerizing new models of pure classicism.
A new Classique, sleeker than ever
As if they wanted to reassure their traditional haute horology aficionados, Breguet unveils their most pared down version of their emblematic Classique collection. More than two centuries of know-how are concentrated in the new Classique Extra-Flat 5157 in a 38mm rose gold case. A timekeeper of minimalistic beauty where two blued stainless steel Breguet hands with their hollowed ‘apple’ shape glide over a silvered solid gold dial.
The extra-flat, 5.45mm high, case combines all the distinctive hallmarks of the House: the fine fluted and polished bezel, the delicate Roman numerals, the handmade Clou de Paris guilloché of the dial and the engraved Breguet signature on both sides of the XII. The 502.43 automatic caliber with its silicium spiral beats at 3Hz, is also engraved and signed by hand and delivers 45 hours of power reserve. It is of great purity. Simply beautiful and timeless!
Grand Feu Enamel Tourbillon
As a climax, Breguet presents their Classique Tourbillon Extra-Flat Automatic 5367. The first enamel Grand Feu - produced internally - of the Grandes Complication collection. With a finely fluted 42mm case that’s just 7.45mm high, Breguet combines all of its classicism and watchmaking excellence. The blued stainless steel Breguet hands, as well as the Arabic numerals, stand out beautifully on the immaculate translucent whiteness of the enamel. The chapter ring is delicately off-centered at 11 o’clock to leave all the attention to the tourbillon situated at 5 o’clock under an ultra-thin bridge beveled by hand. Right above the tourbillon hides the secret Breguet signature. Once spotted, it comes to life remarkably on the enamel. A minimalistic approach of great purity altogether. Less is more. So much more!
Through the sapphire glass at the back, the spectacle climbs a notch (or two!) more. The 581 caliber offers ‘haute horlogerie’ finishing on a rhodium plated movement. Bridges and barrels are hand-engraved and signed. The same goes for the peripheral oscillating mass in platinum. The choice of disposition for the rotor enables a magnified view on this exceptional movement of only 3mm high bearing 33 rubies. Beating at 28,800 vibrations/hour, it delivers a comfortable 80 hours of power reserve. This high horology gem is available in 18k rose gold or platinum respectively on a mahogany brown or blue alligator strap with folding clasp.
Once more Breguet demonstrates its ability to be modern while safekeeping and magnifying its traditional watchmaking excellence. 2018 marks a great vintage for this ancestral house.
(Photography by Liam O’Donnell)
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