Breguet Rattrapante Chronographs 3497 and 5947
Complications

Breguet Rattrapante Chronographs 3497 and 5947

By amanico · Aug 2, 2018 · 10 replies
amanico
WPS member · Breguet forum
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Amanico brings to light two often-overlooked Breguet rattrapante chronographs, the References 3497 and 5947. While Patek Philippe and A. Lange & Söhne often dominate discussions of split-seconds chronographs, amanico argues that Breguet's manual-winding versions from the 1990s deserve significant recognition for their distinctive aesthetics and exquisite movements. This post offers a closer look at these rare and beautiful complications.

If you are a Chronograph Fan, you certainly know that manual winding Rattrapantes are pretty scarce. 

The Breguet Rattrapante is not the most famous one, the stars begin Patek and Lange on that matter. 

Still, the Breguet Rattrapante deserves to be known. 

I had the pleasure to see the Reference 3497 some days ago, in Paris. 


The aesthetics are very Breguet, with a fine guilloché dial, these typical hours and minutes hands, and this exquisite case. 

Some will say the whole watch looks a bit outdated, it is the reflect of its time, the 90's. 

Just after, came the new reference, the 5947, with a very similar dial and case, BUT with the Rattrapante pusher now located in the crown, when it was at 10 o clock, before. 

 

The movement is the reference Cal 535N. 

The Cal 535N is very nice looking, I must say. 


I read that it is an old Lemania, reworked and decorated by Breguet. 

The 5947 came also in a very small limited edition of 7 pieces, in yellow gold, with a superb enamel dial.


I must say that if this version was released in white metal ( gold or platinum ), it might well have been one of my favorite! 

Breguet, please... Think about the possibility of releasing it in white metal! And please, while we are at it, keep this enamel dial, which is really sumptuous. 

Best,

Nicolas

About the Breguet Marine Ref. 5947

The Breguet Rattrapante Ref. 5947 is a notable complication within the brand's contemporary offerings, distinguished by its split-seconds chronograph function. This reference showcases Breguet's technical expertise in creating complex mechanisms while maintaining a design language consistent with its heritage. It represents a modern interpretation of a classic horological complication, appealing to collectors who value intricate movements and refined execution.

The watch features an 18k rose gold case measuring 42 mm in diameter, complemented by a fluted bezel. It is equipped with the automatic caliber 517F, which provides a power reserve of 45 hours. The dial is presented in blue, protected by a sapphire crystal, and the watch offers water resistance up to 100 meters. A rubber strap secures the timepiece to the wrist.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in high-complication timepieces from a historically significant brand. The combination of a split-seconds chronograph with Breguet's design codes positions it as a significant piece for those seeking mechanical sophistication and a distinctive aesthetic. Its production from 2020 onwards places it among the brand's more recent complicated offerings.

Specifications

Caliber
517F
Case
18k Rose Gold
Diameter
42 mm
Dial
Blue
Water Resist.
100m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
GE
Gelato Monster
Aug 2, 2018

white metal, white email, snail that would be a perfection of distinct

TH
TheMadDruid
Aug 3, 2018

I assume the difference is the 52xx has a lacquered dial instead of enamel. Still, it is a beauty as well.

UN
Uncle Chico
Aug 4, 2018

The grand feu enamel dial is mesmerizing. I thought I had already identified my grail but now I'm conflicted. Probably impossible to find but the excitement is in the hunt.

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