Breguet has led the way for two of horology’s most desirable complications: the tourbillon and the perpetual calendar. Each tourbillon watch by Breguet features an engraving, “Brevet du 7 Messidor An 9”, or in the Gregorian calendar, June 26th, 1801. After the French Revolution, a new calendar was imposed and it was during this time of political, social, and economic upheaval that Abraham-Louis Breguet first began to work on the concept of the tourbillon years earlier and finally patented it in 1801. Imagine, throughout the French Revolution, the Reign of Terror, the rule of the Directory, Napoleon’s return to France, and the establishment of Napoleon’s Consulate – Breguet was inventing the foundations of horology that are still immensely relevant today.

The present timepiece combines two formidable horological innovations in an oversized yellow gold case. On the dial, the simple perpetual calendar layout and exposed tourbillon cage is framed by the signature guilloché patterns favored by Breguet. Sitting across the tourbillon toward the top is the hour and minutes indication, further charmed with a retrograde date that is read by a serpentine hand. On the movement, the awe of its impeccable floral scrolls are completely hand-finished will impress the astute collector. Embodying the pinnacle of artistry, innovation of a classic icon, the timepiece is preserved in its “new-old-stock” condition by its original owner. Crisp and stunning, the deployant clasp even retains its factory sticker.

Please note that the proceeds of the sale of the present watch will be given by the Consignor to various charities.