Vintage

Breguet Vintage Watches: Collector's Guide

mdg · 2024-11-01T21:28:34Z

Explore a rare Breguet timepiece with a distinctive case shape, drawing comparisons to the Patek Philippe Ref. 5013. Delve into its history and collector insights.

By mdg · Nov 1, 2024 · 22 replies

mdg

WPS member · Breguet forum

22 replies3756 views3 photos

In this captivating post, mdg shares an exquisite Breguet timepiece, drawing parallels to the iconic Patek Philippe Ref. 5013 due to its distinctive case shape. Mdg's appreciation for this particular Breguet, despite its non-shaped movement, highlights a rare exception to a collector's usual preference, inviting readers to delve into the aesthetic and historical allure of such a unique watch.

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I have always loved this case shape...reminds me of the Patek 5013, which is stratospherically expensive. I normally prefer a shaped movement but will make an exception here : )

From Watches by SJX:

watchesbysjx.com

Key Points from the Discussion

The dial layout of the Breguet is exceptionally well-executed, evoking comparisons to the vintage tonneau-shaped Vacheron Constantin 'Don Pancho' Minute Repeater/Retrograde Date.
Historical pricing analysis reveals that the Breguet, purchased for 10,000 Francs in 1935, might have been significantly less expensive than the 'Don Pancho' (3500 CHF in 1936), depending on whether the Breguet's price was in Swiss or Old French Francs.
It's important to note that the 'Don Pancho' referenced in the comparison features a re-dial, which can impact its originality and collector appeal.
The unique engraving or extra text on the back of such a one-off piece, while individual, might be considered a 'spoiling' element by some collectors.
The open case design, reminiscent of an old pocket watch, raises concerns about its lack of protection against water and sweat, posing a practical challenge for wearability.

The Discussion

j.jota

Nov 1, 2024

Retrograde date... quite an exceptional piece. Do you know if it is a standard calendar or annual/perpetual?

mdg

Nov 1, 2024

Article states perpetual...

...give it a read...good stuff.

AndCavanaugh

Nov 1, 2024

Not mentioned anywhere in the article or lot essay, but the movement was made by Victorin Piguet

V. Piguet also made the movements for Patek and VC's early perpetual calendar wristwatches.

amanico

Nov 1, 2024

I see an excellent reason, here! Wow!

xto

Nov 1, 2024

beautiful watch and good story

but I have admit I wince seeing that case which can't have provided any protection against water, sweat, etc. Like an old pocket watch.

mdg

Nov 1, 2024

People seemed to do OK with them...

...and this one isn't in bad shape for being almost 90 years old : )

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