Breguet

Breguet, founded in 1775 by Abraham-Louis Breguet, is one of the oldest surviving watchmaking brands. The Swiss manufacturer, deeply rooted in horological advances and distinguished craftsmanship, made significant contributions to both watchmaking and science. Breguet's innovations and techniques became industry standards, revolutionizing the world of timekeeping.

Abraham-Louis Breguet's pioneering inventions are notably significant. In 1780, he perfected the self-winding perpetual watch mechanism, known as the "perpétuelle." Among his monumental inventions in 1795 was the tourbillon, designed to counteract the effects of gravity on pocket watches, enhancing their accuracy. In 1783, Breguet also developed the symphysis of functionality and elegance with the creation of the gong-spring, which improved chiming mechanisms in watches.

The brand quickly attracted distinguished clientele, including many European monarchs and aristocrats. Notable patrons included Marie Antoinette, who commissioned the most complicated watch of her era, known as the "Marie-Antoinette" (Breguet No. 160), although it was not completed until decades after her death. The company also supplied timepieces to figures such as Napoléon Bonaparte, Queen Victoria, and Winston Churchill.

In the 19th century, Breguet was instrumental in developing marine chronometers, which were indispensable in aiding naval navigation. The brand’s precise timepieces became standard equipment on many naval vessels across Europe, securing a reputation for accuracy and reliability.

After the death of Abraham-Louis Breguet in 1823, his son Louis-Antoine Breguet took over the business, followed by subsequent generations that continued the legacy. In 1976, the brand became part of the Swatch Group under the leadership of Nicolas G. Hayek, which bolstered the manufacture with technological advancements while respecting its heritage.