Breguet Classique Enamel Dial Time-Only Discussion

ifraher · 2022-01-14T17:20:12Z

Explore the debate on Breguet's minute repeaters and the appeal of time-only enamel dials. Collectors discuss sound quality, compare brands like Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, and Parmigiani, and share personal experiences with chiming watches.

ifraher

WPS member · Breguet forum

29 replies8179 views1 photos

In this insightful article, ifraher explores the aesthetic potential of Breguet's Classique collection, advocating for a time-only enamel dial version without the minute repeater complication. His original post sparks a rich discussion among collectors about the nuances of minute repeaters, Breguet's specific offerings, and the broader landscape of chiming watches from various haute horlogerie brands. This piece delves into the community's shared expertise and personal experiences with these intricate timepieces.

I recall a model for the Ginza store a few years ago with a central seconds, while undeniably attractive it was limited in number. The time only Classique on blue or even white enamel would be welcome. They have a blue dial central seconds with a date that I don't feel works unfortunately.

Key Points from the Discussion

Breguet's minute repeaters, particularly the minute repeater perpetual calendar, are often criticized for their sound quality, including volume, tonality, and speed, despite the brand's overall excellence in other watchmaking aspects.
Modern minute repeaters from Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin are highly regarded for their crisp sound, excellent tonality, good volume, and efficient chiming sequence, often completing a 12:59 sequence in under 20 seconds.
Audemars Piguet holds a significant historical position in minute repeaters, being among the first to develop carillons, which incorporate more than two gongs.
The experience of hearing various chiming watches, including the Vacheron Constantin two-hand, UN Hour Striker, A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk Striking Time, Parmigiani Toric Minute Repeater, and Breguet Musicale 7800, reveals a spectrum of sound qualities, with some noted for beauty but lacking volume.
A collector expresses deep affection for their Breguet time-only blue enamel dial, noting its darker hue compared to the blue enamel tourbillon, despite awareness of negative comments regarding Breguet's minute repeaters.
The rarity of encountering minute repeaters in person means that owning or having heard multiple examples places a collector in a very exclusive group.

The Discussion

ifraher

Jan 14, 2022

Also long gone... Having checked their site they do not offer many refs. in enamel, such a nice option on the Classique

patrick_y

Jan 14, 2022

They are AWFUL! Bad volume and bad tonality. Also quite slow. Breguet does amazing work on almost all of their watches. But when it comes to the minute repeaters, I strongly implore you hear them first and others to compare... The Breguet pieces I've heard are awful. The worse offender is the minute repeater perpetual calendar.

ifraher

Jan 14, 2022

So a 5157BR/11/9V6 or a 7147BB/29/9WU but with the blue dial... the opposite end of their pricing scale

patrick_y

Jan 14, 2022

I really like the guilloche dial one A LOT! Just exquisite. Breguet really do make some amazing timepieces (just not minute repeaters). I'd live without the minute repeater and with the extra 100,000+ Pounds in my bank account.

patrick_y

Jan 14, 2022

Reminds me of my IWC minute repeater, but possibly worse.

Spangles - Dr. Tabby

Jan 14, 2022

And I absolutely love it. I don't show it here, due to all the negative comments. I will say that the blue enamel for the time only that I have is a different blue than the blue enamel tourbillon. The time only is darker, and I prefer it. I will try to see this minute repeater in the metal at the boutique.

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