Breguet Experimentale 1 — the latest novelty for the 250th anniversary of Breguet

The latest novelty for the 250th anniversary of Breguet is equipped with a 10 Hz tourbillon and a new permanent magnetic trigger.

Breguet has unveiled the latest novelty for the brand’s 250th anniversary, and this watch will definitely be a worthy end to the anniversary year. Why? Because with this new product, Breguet opens a new collection based on scientific research and development. The model, which reinterprets the Marine range, is equipped with a high-frequency mechanism with a tourbillon and a new constant-force trigger based on the controlled phenomenon of magnetism.

The problem of clock accuracy is a complex phenomenon that involves at least 3 variables. The first of them is related to the unstable amplitude of balance fluctuations. As the winding drum unwinds, its torque decreases (the tension of the winding spring weakens). As a result, the energy supplied to the balance is unstable, which makes it difficult to maintain a constant amplitude of balance fluctuations. At least not without a permanent force device.

The second point is related to the influence of gravity on the regulating body of the clock mechanism (the balance spiral node) Abraham-Louis Breguet tried to solve this problem when, in 1801, he introduced one of his main inventions, the turbillon. The essence of the invention, as you remember, was that the regulating body was mounted in a constantly rotating carriage, which was designed to neutralize the influence of gravity.

The third variable within the given problem is impact resistance. All clocks, one way or another, are subject to shocks, as well as acceleration, which is a multiple of the acceleration of free fall. Any impact and any movement affects the consistency of the movement of the mechanism, and therefore the accuracy of the watch.

The Breguet Experimentale 1 model is designed to take all 3 aspects into account in one watch. The new trigger mechanism includes two trigger wheels, each equipped with a magnetic track. The arm of the anchor pallet with magnetic anchors rotates in the center of the track. The idea is to use the principles of constant force descent in this system. Below a certain torque value, the tourbillon stops quickly, while above this threshold, the balance fluctuates with maximum oscillation amplitude.

Important detail: the system clearly separates the impulses transmitted from the rotation of the trigger wheel from the operation of the rest of the gear train. The inertia of the tourbillon carriage has virtually no effect on the operation of the mechanism. The balance is shifted relative to the center of rotation of the carriage. The frequency of balance fluctuations is 10 Hz. The watch is marked with the Breguet brand in the “Scientific” category, which means a guaranteed accuracy of -/+ 1 second per day.

The design of the trigger mechanism is also non-standard. An intermediate locking wheel is located between the two escapement wheels, which prevents unwanted jumps. Most of the other components of the tourbillon are made of non–magnetic materials, the balance spiral is made of silicon, and the remaining components are made of titanium or Nivagauss alloy.

For all its innovation, the descent looks quite traditional. It also contains an anchor fork and other familiar components, but… the anchor fork is driven by a magnetic field. This gives a non-contact impulse, which means a maximum reduction in friction. This is a constant force that does not affect the condition of the factory and the torque of the winding drum.

All these innovations are embodied in the 7250 caliber, a new Breguet manufacturing mechanism, the components of which are made of 18-carat Breguet Gold alloy. Another important feature of the mechanism is the patented design of the wind–up drum. It is located here on two sequentially connected levels, each of which includes a double winding spring.

There is a sapphire divider inside the structure, and it is located on both sides of the “3 o’clock – 9 o’clock” axis. To summarize all of the above, 4 winding springs ensure optimal energy distribution in the mechanism. The power reserve is 72 hours.

The design of the model feels more strict and modern. The case, made of Breguet Gold alloy, has parameters of 43.5 x 13.3 mm. The case has more angular shapes than usual, and the ears here are completely hollow, with several types of finishes alternating – sandblasting, bluing, satin and even inlaid with Breguet Gold with blue ALD coating. The side of the case retains the signature element of the Breguet style – the grooving on the body ring, which is presented here in a more modern design.

The inspiration for this novelty was the Breguet pocket watch No. 3448 with a dial in the style of a regulator. The design of the sapphire dial is based on the laws of symmetry. The tourbillon is located in the upper part. At the bottom there is a small dial, under which the design of the wind–up drum is visible. The visible bridges of the mechanism are made either of raw Breguet gold, or have satin finish, polished bevels and a dark blue lacquer finish.

The second hand is mounted on the tourbillon, and the minute hand is mounted on a large white hanging ring that crosses the tourbillon. The ring is treated with phosphor. The arrows, which are an improved version of the classic Breguet arrows, are treated with an ALD coating and phosphor. The design of the dial rests on 4 gold supports.

It is suggested to wear the watch on a rubber strap, which is integrated into the case. On the back side, it is equipped with convenient buttons, which are a quick release system. The model is limited to a series of 75 copies.

The estimated cost of the watch is CHF 320,000.