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Men complication: Breguet – Tradition Chronograph Indépendant 7077

In 2005, Breguet launched its iconic Tradition collection with the 7027 model, the first timepiece to showcase the mechanisms of the movement on top of the baseplate. There have been several iterations in size and with different complications already. This time they introduced a new Chronograph, the Ref. 7077.

The chronograph occupies a choice position in watchmaking as a complication in its own right, even when he is quite often underrated by some. An appropriate product specification for an outstanding chronograph is demanding and so is the execution. One of the mechanical challenges is when you start the chronograph, because it affects the (main) gear trains. Not in this case, because there are two independent trains. The first is the going train for the hours and minutes, regulated by a 3Hz balance and having a power reserve of 50 hours. For the chronograph, the second transmission has a 5Hz frequency to ensure more precise readings, in harmony with the one devoted to measuring the passing of time. The two trains are entirely disconnected and the movement remains unaffected when the chronograph is started.

What do you think so far? To us it sounds like a smart solution and there is still more.

Normally, a second train implies a second barrel to provide the energy required by the chronograph. This approach nonetheless needs more space and above all means that the owner of the watch must wind up the chronograph barrel spring as well as the going barrel. With the Tradition Chronographe Indépendant 7077 model, the company’s technicians have introduced a new type of spring perfectly suited to the chronograph function. The energy required to drive the chronograph is provided by the user when operating the reset-to-zero function. This energy is stored in a flexed blade spring. The power reserve of this historical type of spring amounts to no more than 20 minutes, but this is ideal for measuring short elapsed times. The system enables the user to start the chronograph instantly, without worrying about the energy available, because it will always be at its maximum. To ensure that the spring is fully flexed, Breguet has designed a shape that guarantees enough elasticity to provide extra energy when arming the spring.

The application of the blade spring principle by Breguet’s watchmakers has given rise to a number of innovations. A non-concentric going train has been associated with the blade spring so as to even out the torque and achieve constant amplitude and rate of the chronograph. A patent has been filed for the entire spring and train assembly. Instead of following its usual curve, the shape of the train has been calculated to transmit constant force to the chronograph. In addition, the reference 7077 is fitted with a patented chronograph balance-wheel in titanium ensuring perfect symmetry with the movement balance-wheel.

The use of a heavier material for the balance-wheel would have meant making it smaller. The overall appearance would be affected, especially since one of the features of the Tradition collection is to make the main parts of the movement visible on the baseplate. The two balance-wheels are thus the same size, despite their different frequencies, and their position is in tune with aesthetic considerations.

The chronograph function of this Tradition model is controlled by two pushers that are screwed in to keep out water. Contrary to customary chronographs, one pusher is devoted to starting the measurement, while the other stops and resets the chronograph to zero. It is this zeroing action that flexes and arms the blade spring, thus preparing the chronograph for a new measurement. The titanium balance-wheel is also flanked by two brakes. The first, working off a cam, frees the balance-wheel when the chronograph is started and then holds it when the chronograph is stopped. In this way the balance-wheel is always in the ideal position and instantly reaches its proper amplitude.

Among the features that recall the historical roots of the Tradition collection are the patented pare-chute anti-shock devices as well as the chronograph control which recalls that of the reference 4009 double-second observation timer sold by Breguet, 1825.

For comparison we would like to show you two subscription pieces from Breguet (which have been on display at Basel – on Sunday, only) versus the new chronograph:

In keeping with the rules, the style of this Breguet Tradition Chronographe Indépendant 7077 is noted for its symmetry. The engine-turned dial in silvered gold showing the hours and minutes is offset at 12 o'clock, while the chronograph hand is fixed in the centre of the watch. The chronograph-activation indicator is at 6 o'clock. Directly opposite each other at 2 o'clock and 10 o'clock two retrograde hands respectively indicate the power reserve of the watch and the chronograph minutes, while the two balance-wheels beat side by side at 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock.

A few more pictures; backside :

Specifications of the movement :

Hand-wound chronograph movement numbered and signed Breguet. Power reserve indicator and 20-minute counter engraved on the back of the movement. Chronograph running indicator at 6 o'clock. Cal. 580DR. 50 hours power reserve. Symmetrical inverted in-line lever escapements with silicon pallets. Breguet balance-wheels on Breguet springs in silicon. Movement frequency 3Hz; chronograph frequency 5Hz. The two oscillators are adjusted in six positions.

Something we are not keen on is the attention you will probably get because of the extrovert folding clasp, but this can be solved with a simpler buckle.

The diameter of the watch is not small, 44mm. The height is not slim as you can imagine, but both measurements feel appropriate (for what it is - a technical marvel) and good on our wrists.

The watch is available in WG and RG and the case is water-resistant to 30m.

The dial in silvered 18-carat gold is engine-turned and offset at 12 o'clock. It is individually numbered and signed: Breguet. The Breguet open-tipped hands are in blued steel.

Congrats to the team from Breguet, we think Mr. Breguet would be proud of it. This new chronograph represents the strong history of the brand and also shows its future possibilities. For us it is a winner!

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