Breguet Rose Gold 'Tank' Dress Watch

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. 

Prior to it's transfer of ownership and production location change to Switzerland in the late 1970s into the 1980s, it is estimated that only a few hundred pieces were every produced.

So, the piece that we have here you might say, is something very, very special indeed. 

Dating to circa the early 1950s, this square 'Tank'-style dress is constructed out of rose gold and comes in at approximately 23mm x 33mm in diameter. At first, the design is somewhat reminiscent of Cartiers's Tank Normale, but upon closer inspection the design is more dynamic and stylized — particularly when viewed from the profile, where it's gorgeous pointed lugs are apparent. It features a snap-back case design and a flat-style crown at the 3 o'clock position. Inside, the dial is exactly what you want to find in any Breguet — a gorgeous silver dial with a 'guilloche' center. The outer section features applied rose gold 'dart' indices as well as 'Arabic' indices at the 3, 6, 9, and o'clock positions. They are complimented by a rose gold 'pencil' handset.

This piece comes to us in strong overall condition given its age, seemingly spared of any polishing or refinishing. The case remains strong and symmetrical and shows normal signs of wear with a few minor scratches here and there. The dial within is nicely preserved and honest, with light edge wear visible and a some minor crazing and patina throughout. The indices exhibit some surface oxidation, which tracks with the overall condition of the dial. It presents beautifully overall. It is powered by a correct manually-wound 9-ligne movement.

This stunning mid-century piece embodies much of what we love about the brand, while simultaneously existing as something of rarity with its Tank-style shape. It is the first we have seen in this style, and like all Breguet from this era, flat out rare.