Exclusive Timepieces 20 –⁠ 21 April 2024 | Monaco

Auction Details

Auction sessions:

  • Session I – Saturday, 20 April, 2:30 PM – Lots 1 to 101
  • Session II – Sunday, 21 April, 10:30 AM – Lots 102 to 178
  • Session III – Sunday, 21 April, 2:30 PM – Lots 179 to 278

233 Breguet Very Attractive and Well Presserved, Classique Tourbillon, Wristwatch in Platinum and Pink Gold, With Guillochè Dial, Reference 3450

Estimate: € 40,000 –⁠ 80,000

Sold € 57,200

Model: Classique Tourbillon
Reference: 3450
Case Material: Platinum and Pink Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1993
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 558
Case N°: 466E
Movement N°: 048
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case

Renowned for its legacy in crafting exceptional timepieces, Breguet, the esteemed Swiss watchmaker, stands as a beacon of precision and innovation. Among its extraordinary creationsis listed the tourbillon, a complication invented by Abraham-Louis Breguet himself in June 1801. Breguet’s innovative response to the influence of gravity on the escapement (the heart of the watch) resulted in the creation of the tourbillon. This rotating cage, housing the escapement, averages out positional errors as it turns, significantly enhancing the overall precision of the watch. Though patented in 1801, it took until 1805 for commercialized examples of the tourbillon to become available. Over the last two centuries, this ingenious invention has remained remarkably consistent, a testament to its enduring effectiveness. Breguet’s modern descendants, one hundred and ninety years later, introduced the reference 3450, available in various materials. The presented version, a precious iteration in platinum and pink gold, showcases the brand’s iconic style, including the coin edge band with borders in pink gold, concave bezel, and straight lugs. Complemented by the warmth and elegance of pink gold, the case reflects the meticulous craftsmanship and design philosophy synonymous with Breguet. The semi-skeletonized dial, hand guilloché from solid silver, embodies classic Breguet aesthetics. The ornate engraving serving as the backdrop to the tourbillon cage and extending to the movement further underscores the brand’s commitment to artistic detailing. This specific Tourbillon, an early example with a warm-toned dial, remains remarkably preserved, capturing the spirit of traditional watchmaking. The combination of platinum and pink gold, coupled with the intricate tourbillon mechanism, epitomizes Breguet’s dedication to creating timepieces that seamlessly marry technical advancement with aesthetic allure. With limited availability and exceptional craftsmanship, these watches become highly coveted among collectors and connoisseurs of fine watchmaking.