Pre-Basel 2015: Breguet Tradition Automatique Second Retrograde 7097


Breguet will debut a new Tradition watch model with a retrograde complication at Baselworld 2015. Located at 10 ‘clock, the seconds hand travels from 0-60 across the display, and then instantly jumps back to zero, every 60-seconds.

The Tradition comes in a variation of models, including a GMT and Fusee and Chain tourbillon, which all have the collection’s signature feature: the movement is showcased on top of the baseplate. Contrary to the configuration you see on most timepieces, the Tradition line breaks tradition, by revealing the bridges, wheels, escapement, barrel and other components of the movement, which are usually hidden beneath the baseplate – on the dial side.

And while the layout of the dial is completely unconventional, the finishing stays true to conventional haute horology standards. The dial is decorated with a conventional engine-turned hobnail pattern, done by hand, that highlights the silvered gold offset dial at 12 o’clock. The dial ring and retrograde scale feature a frosted finish that Breguet is known for. The bridges and baseplate are peened according to a decorative technique that requires rare skill and faultless execution to achieve a regular and uniform finish.

The hand wound 3Hz movement (caliber 505SR1) has 38 jewels, a 50-hour power reserve, a straight-line inverted lever escapement with silicon pallets, as well as the latest Breguet overcoil balance spring in silicon.

The new (Ref. 7097BB/G1/9WU) is shown in white gold and will also be available in rose gold (Ref. 7097BR/G1/9WU).