In 1973, at a time when mechanical watchmaking was in decline amid the quartz revolution, Daniel Roth undertook a bold and visionary endeavor at Breguet: the revival of the perpetual calendar. His efforts culminated in the creation of ref. 3050, introduced in the mid-1970s, marking a significant chapter in the renaissance of traditional horology.

Inspired by a historic Breguet pocket watch that Roth had studied during his early training, the ref. 3050 masterfully translated classical proportions and mechanical poetry into a contemporary wristwatch format. The result was a timepiece that combined technical sophistication with unmistakable elegance. Each watch was individually numbered, with the discreet plaque subtly integrated into the subdial, a refined gesture that highlights its rarity and artisanal provenance.

Due to the complexity of its construction and the expertise required, the ref. 3050 was produced in very limited numbers when it was succeeded by the ref. 3310, which introduced a power reserve indicator, yet departed from the minimalist purity of its predecessor, making each surviving example a rare witness to Roth’s horological vision.

The present example numbered 2603 stands out with its “Tiffany & Co.” signature at 3 o’clock. Exceedingly rare, only a handful of examples are known to be sold by the prestigious retailer. Accompanied by its original presentation box, the watch is exceptionally well-preserved, with all hallmarks visible—it is a historically significant creation, capturing the spirit of a quiet revolution in modern watchmaking.