Breguet Classique Grande Complication 1801
Complications

Breguet Classique Grande Complication 1801

By amanico · Jul 20, 2019 · 21 replies
amanico
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Amanico shares images and insights on the Breguet Classique Grande Complication 1801, a watch created in 2001 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Abraham-Louis Breguet's tourbillon. He questions the 'Grande Complication' designation for a tourbillon-only piece, preferring to refer to it by its reference number.

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Please allow me, for once, to call it by its reference, not by its name, because I never understood how you can call a Tourbillon a Complication, even less a Grande Complication, so do we go for 1801? 

1801 is a much better reference name, since this watch has been made in 2001, in order to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Mr A.L Breguet's innovation, the Tourbillon. 

A watch I could admire several times at the Breguet Boutique, but which I couldn't take in picture. Maybe one day? 

It is a marvel, with its guillochĂ© cover, which only shows the time. A cover that you can easily open to admire the rest, THE rest, a superb " dial " and a gorgeous Tourbillon. 

Not too big, with a diameter of 40, 5 mm, not too thick, either, with a height of 11, 3 mm, the proportions are very wearable. 

And let's not forget that, in 2001, the Tourbillon was still prestigious and exclusive. Not like today with every brand offering its own vision of the Tourbillon! 

Let's see some pictures: 

White gold:








Rose Gold: 






The case back: 



And the packaging. 


Credit pictures: Sothebys and Christies. Second picture: Breguet. 

Best,

Nicolas

About the Breguet Classique Complications Ref. 1801

The Breguet Classique Ref. 1801 is part of the brand's collection celebrating its historical legacy, drawing inspiration from early Breguet designs. This reference is notable for its traditional aesthetic, which emphasizes legibility and classical proportions, aligning with the brand's heritage of horological innovation and design principles. It represents a commitment to the foundational elements of fine watchmaking, presented in a contemporary yet historically resonant package.

This timepiece features an 18k yellow gold case measuring 36 mm in diameter, housing the manual-wind Caliber 558T. The movement provides a power reserve of 50 hours. A sapphire crystal protects the silver dial, which typically features Breguet numerals and hands, enhancing its classic appeal. The watch is water-resistant to 30 meters, suitable for everyday wear but not for immersion.

The Ref. 1801 appeals to collectors who appreciate Breguet's historical contributions to watchmaking and seek a piece that embodies those traditions. Its design, with a focus on understated elegance and mechanical integrity, positions it as a significant offering within the Classique line. The reference is often associated with special anniversary collections, reflecting its role in commemorating key milestones for the brand.

Specifications

Caliber
558T
Case
18k Yellow Gold
Diameter
36 mm
Dial
Silver
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
MD
mdg
Jul 20, 2019
Very nice...

that was a big watch 'back in the day.' It would be interesting if the oval on the front were left blank so an owner could personalize it (initials, monogram, etc.). Very classy.

AM
amanico
Jul 20, 2019
They have the inside of the cover for that. It is less risky, this way, given the strange engravings of paintings we can sometimes see... ;) [nt]

MD
mdg
Jul 20, 2019
Understand your point...

but would prefer that the entire cover is guilloche instead.

EM
Emil Wojcik
Jul 20, 2019
Although I admire this watch immensely, and would indeed love to own one, I find it odd that they would conceal the tourbillion with a cover...

...but then engrave it as if to say, "yes, there's a tourbillion hidden under here". Impressive none the less.

AM
amanico
Jul 20, 2019
I quite like the idea of the hidden tourbillon, though, reserved to the selfish pleasure of its owner. [nt]

EM
Emil Wojcik
Jul 20, 2019
I agree, I prefer the tourbillion to be hidden, which is why I'm amused with "tourbillion" engraved on the cover. It's almost like they couldn't decide if hiding it was a good idea or bad. [nt]

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