Breguet Traditions Collection Comparison

Bob L. · 2023-11-22T23:20:10Z

Explore the Breguet 7597 Tradition with insights from collectors on silver vs. blue dials. Discover expert opinions on aesthetics, versatility, and guilloché.

Bob L.

WPS member · Breguet forum

23 replies5470 views1 photos

Bob L. initiates a compelling discussion on the Breguet 7597, a reference celebrated for its fusion of traditional horology and contemporary design. His post invites the WatchProSite community to weigh in on a crucial aesthetic choice: the classic silver dial versus the more modern blue dial. This article synthesizes collector perspectives, offering valuable insights for those considering this distinctive Breguet model.

23 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

I love the Breguet 7597 — a beautiful watch that blends modern with traditional so nicely. But I find myself torn between two of the versions: the original silver colored dial, and the somewhat newer blue dialed version.

The blue dial does such a nice job creating a contrast between the movement mechanisms and the dial, and blue gives it a bit more “pop.” The silver dial, on the other hand, preserves Breguet’s traditional beauty and, perhaps, better displays the beautiful guilloche work on the dial.

I know beauty is wholly in the eye of the beholder, but curious if people here have a preference for one over the other. Many thanks!

Bob

About the Breguet La Tradition Breguet Ref. 7597

The Breguet Tradition 7597 Quantième Rétrograde is a contemporary interpretation within the Tradition collection, which draws inspiration from Abraham-Louis Breguet’s 'souscription' and 'tact' watches. This model showcases the movement's architecture on the dial side, a hallmark of the Tradition series, emphasizing the mechanical artistry.

This reference features a 40mm case, typically crafted from white gold or rose gold, housing the self-winding Caliber 505Q. This movement incorporates a retrograde date display positioned between 9 and 3 o'clock, a silicon balance spring, and an inverted in-line lever escapement. The power reserve is approximately 50 hours, and the watch is water-resistant to 30 meters. The dial for the hours and minutes is offset at 12 o'clock, often in silvered gold with a hand-guilloché 'Clous de Paris' pattern.

The 7597 is significant for collectors who appreciate Breguet's historical innovations presented with a modern aesthetic. Its open-worked design allows for direct observation of the movement's intricate mechanics, including the balance wheel and escapement, making it a focal point of horological discussion and appreciation.

Specifications

Caliber: 505Q

Case: White gold or Rose gold

Diameter: 40 mm

Dial: Silvered gold (hours/minutes subdial)

Water Resist.: 30 meters

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The blue dial offers a vibrant contrast that highlights the movement mechanisms, while the silver dial better preserves Breguet's traditional aesthetic and showcases the guilloché work.
The blue dial provides added color and 'pop,' enhancing the visual appeal of complications like the retrograde date and seconds.
While both dials are appealing, the silver dial is often preferred for its classic Breguet presentation, especially if it's the collector's sole Breguet, as it truly showcases the guilloché.
The silver dial with blued hands offers superior contrast compared to white lacquered hands, which some find less appealing.
The choice of strap can influence dial preference; a blue dial might be more versatile with a black crocodile strap, whereas a silver dial could benefit from softer, colored straps to avoid a overly formal look.
A collector who already owns a silver dial Tradition might consider the blue dial for variety, suggesting a progression in collecting the reference.

The Discussion

Champthekid

Nov 22, 2023

Black dial, but only 51% to 49%.

👍

India Whiskey Charlie

Nov 22, 2023

Is that blue or black? Either way, I'd choose the darker dial if it was for me...😉

emcquillan

Nov 23, 2023

The blue dial for me. This is the first Breguet I am considering after many years.

MichaelC

Nov 23, 2023

Room on the dark dial train for one more?

On this particular watch, I just think it looks better. Keep us posted!

jleno

Nov 23, 2023

I might prefer silver slightly.

It would be more versatile with different strap options. Can't go wrong either way though!

Spangles - Dr. Tabby

Nov 23, 2023

I've tried these on too many times!

I'm a little obsessed. Both dials are very nice. I like the added color of the blue. The retro date is amazing, I like the retro seconds, see below (4 visits to boutiques!)