Breitling - START-STOP-RESET: 88 Epic Stainless Steel Chronographs Geneva Friday, May 13, 2016 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Breitling
    Year: Ref. 764 ‘Split-Seconds’
    Reference No: 764
    Case No: 1’354’591
    Model Name: “Duograph”
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 179, 18 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel
    Dimensions: 38mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    “Duograph” was the name of Breitling’s family of highly complicated and prestigious split-seconds chronographs produced starting in the 1940s. It was available in stainless steel, yellow gold, and pink gold.

    The present version, cased in stainless steel, has a substantial diameter of nearly 38 mm and is considered the brand’s top-of-the-line model. The dial is extraordinarily preserved and is free of any restoration or other signs of aging. The two black subsidiary dials contrast beautifully against the monochromatic silver dial, which makes it easily legible for the reader. The black and white tones can be affectionately called a “Panda” dial.

    The case appears to have never been polished and has superbly defined bevels and the original satin-finish. The bezel has, quite amazingly, one surface that is completely mirror-polished, and another with circular satin brushed finishing.

    The present lot offered for sale is, without a doubt, one of the finest examples of Breitling’s legendary split-seconds wristwatch model to appear on the market in recent years.

  • Artist Biography

    Breitling

    Swiss • 1884

    The firm started by Leon Breitling in 1884 is best known for its technical aviation and oceanic watches. Today, all models are outfitted with certified chronometer movements, used for accurate timing. Early aviation pioneers in specialized chronograph timepieces, Breitling introduced the circular slide rule to watches in the 1940s for use by pilots. The firm’s most iconic chronograph, the Navitimer, was introduced in 1954 and continues to be manufactured today. Another key model is the Duograph, a split-seconds chronograph that was Breitling's most prestigious wristwatch during the 1940s through '60s. Their watches are built on their reputation for precision and sturdiness.

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Ref. 764
A very fine, rare and oversized stainless steel split-seconds chronograph wristwatch with silvered dial, applied hour markers and tachometer scale.

Ref. 764 ‘Split-Seconds’
38mm diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF15,000 - 30,000 

Sold for CHF30,000

Contact Specialist
Livia Russo
+41 22 317 81 86

START-STOP-RESET: 88 Epic Stainless Steel Chronographs

Geneva Auction 14 May 2016