Breguet 3130/37 Reference Guide

TheMadDruid · 2024-06-16T00:51:07Z

Explore the iconic Breguet 3130/37, a reference many consider pivotal for the modern brand. Discover its history, variations, and why it captivates collectors.

TheMadDruid

WPS member · Breguet forum

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TheMadDruid's passionate ode to the Breguet 3130/37 offers a compelling look at a reference he considers pivotal for the modern brand and personally transformative. His journey, sparked by an early 90s advertisement, highlights how a single timepiece can ignite a lifelong passion for horology. This article delves into why the 3130/37 holds such significance for collectors, exploring its design, variations, and enduring appeal.

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This may be the most important reference for the modern brand.

It may be the most iconic Breguet, going all the way back to Abraham Breguet himself. It is definitely the watch that made me a collector; and off and on broke 🤗.

I knew nothing about watches beyond being familiar with certain names: Timex, Buluva, Rolex, Movado. But in the early 90s this ad (actually a very similar one in a “Discover St. Martin” magazine) introduced me to the world of high horology.

It was basically all over but for finding the funds to dive in.

The Yellow Gold model is, to me, the iconic 3137. I’ve owned two-one back in the early 2000s and again more recently. However, the novelty of a different metal was too tempting to avoid and so I again sold my YG to buy one in White Gold.

Though not the one most of us picture when thinking about this reference it’s very attractive to me.

About the Breguet Classique Ref. 3137

The reference 3137 represents Breguet's approach to classical watchmaking within the Classique series. This reference features a 36mm case size that positions it as a traditionally proportioned timepiece within the model range.

The watch houses an automatic movement within an 18k yellow gold case measuring 36mm in diameter. The silver dial is protected by sapphire crystal, and the timepiece offers 30 meters of water resistance. The design incorporates a fixed bezel as part of the overall case construction.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a precious metal automatic timepiece with classical proportions. The 36mm case size and yellow gold construction target those who prefer traditional sizing and materials. The automatic movement and sapphire crystal reflect contemporary technical standards within the Classique series framework.

Specifications

Caliber: 591A

Case: 18k Yellow Gold

Diameter: 36 mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The Breguet 3137 is often referred to as 'la chinoise' by collectors, and there's a noticeable resurgence of interest in Breguet watches from this era, leading to slowly increasing prices.
The 3137 and 3337 references are both highly sought after, with some collectors owning both to appreciate their distinct characteristics.
The design of the 3137, particularly its well-matched front and exhibition case back, draws a direct lineage to Abraham-Louis Breguet's original pocket watches, such as the historic #5.
While the yellow gold variant is often considered the iconic 3137, the white gold version also presents a very attractive and desirable alternative for collectors.
Many collectors consider the 3130/37 to be a favorite Breguet reference, appreciating its elegant simplicity and special character over more complex complications like tourbillons or chronographs.
The era in which the 3130/37 was produced is celebrated for its incredible finishing and the introduction or continuation of many great Breguet references.

The Discussion

Spangles - Dr. Tabby

Jun 16, 2024

The front and back are very well matched, I would spend time looking at either. Here is Bregret's original #5 pocketwatch:

AuHavrePro

Jun 16, 2024

Well done 😊🥂....

AuHavrePro

Jun 16, 2024

would indicate the latter to be considerable more likely 😁😇........

xto

Jun 16, 2024

But I too have found white gold ones that look nice

Cocolex

Jun 16, 2024

Amazing piece! It is commonly referred as "la chinoise". I almost bought a 3330, but didn't, as I was waiting for the opportunity to find a 3337. Unfortunately for me, I never found one, and that beautiful 3330 that was at one of my trusted dealer is now gone, I was somehow too confident that it would be there for me forever, as it was there for many years... It seems there is a renewed interest for Breguet of this era rescentely.

Jun 16, 2024

so I had to have both the 3137 and the 3337:

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About the Breguet Classique Ref. 3137

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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