Breguet Empire - Silver 'Guilloché' Dial & Peseux 260 Movement w/ Extract
Parisian manufacturer Breguet, named after its founder, Abraham-Louis Breguet, was founded in 1775 and is one of the most stored and historically significant manufacturers in the world of horology. With a number of firsts, including *ahem* what many consider to be the first known wristwatch, Breguet is primarily known today for its stunning silver 'guilloche' dials, innovations in complications, and outstanding build quality.
The 35mm dress watch that we have here is something incredibly special and important. Called an 'Empire', it dates to circa 1969 and in addition to being rare in in its own right as all Breguet timepieces from this era are, it is both the condition of this particular example and the movement powering it that further adds to its horological significance.
Coming in at the larger of two available sizes, 35mm in diameter, it features a very Breguet coin-edge case design with 'officer'-style lugs, and a snapback caseback, and a yellow gold crown. As with virtually all Breguet dress watches, the dial within is an absolute delight to behold, and this piece is no exception. Silver in color, it features a variety of guilloché finishing techniques, black printed indices, a subsidiary seconds register at the 6 o'clock position, and of course, a 'Breguet' handset executed in yellow gold. Simplicity executed on the highest level.
The condition of this piece is exceptional. Unpolished, with strong factory finishing, clear hallmarks and engravings throughout, and a beautifully preserved dial within — once again contributing to the attractiveness of this package.
Last but not least, the movement inside. Designed specifically for Observatory chronometer competition trials to be as accurate as possible, the Peseux Cal. 260 is generally regarded as one of the finest time-only chronometer watch movements of the 20th century. It was produced for about 23 years with approximately 3,300 units made, and allegedly, never sold to the public. Instead, these were distributed to high-end brand such as Leroy, CYMA, and Breguet.
Additionally, accompanying this piece is an extract from Breguet's archives confirming the original date of sale in 1969.
We cannot overstate how special it is to be able to offer not only a stunning example of a rare and timeless watch, but one with supporting documentation like what we have here, and from one of the most prestigious brands on earth. How can you go wrong?
Condition Report & Details
Condition:
Movement:
Bracelet/Strap:
Shipping, Returns, & Warranty
Every Oliver & Clarke timepiece comes with a one-year mechanical warranty starting from the date of delivery. We ensure all watches are in wonderful working condition and are ready for daily wear. Many have been fully serviced by our team of watchmakers.
Please note:
- Due to the vintage or antique nature of many of our watches, they may not keep time as accurately as when new, nor as precisely as quartz or electronic devices.
- We do not guarantee water resistance and do not warranty against moisture or water damage. Deliberate exposure to water or steam is not recommended.
- Warranty does not cover internal or external damage caused by accidents, mishandling, abuse, modifications, or services performed by anyone other than our authorized personnel.
- Our warranty is non-transferable.
The Oliver & Clarke Guarantee
At Oliver & Clarke, we meticulously vet each watch to ensure its authenticity and quality. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and our mission is to help you find the perfect timepiece. If you have any questions, we are here to assist you promptly.
Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
- The authenticity of each watch is guaranteed in perpetuity.
Choose options
"As collectors themselves, Oliver and Clarke are on a mission to make buying vintage watches as painless as possible."
"The company focuses on good prices for its pieces, elite customer service and full transparency."
"The appointment-only space is inviting, with comfortable seating areas and exposed brick walls."
From Rolex & Patek Philippe, to Cartier & Audemars Piguet. As collectors first, we love the small details that separate the Submariner from Daytona and Calatrava from Royal Oak. This is why you'll find our curated assortment spans decades of generations of models and brands. We believe that watches don't just tell time, they tell history - and life is too short to wear a boring watch.
Oliver & Clarke