Unveiled in 2005, the Tradition collection by high-horology brand Breguet comprises watches that are distinguished by their inverted movements. Most of the movement components of these models are displayed on the dial side: This allows aficionados to admire the watch workings while paying homage to the movement design of the 18th-century “subscription” pocket watches sold by renowned watchmaker Abraham Breguet, after whom the brand is named. They were called subscription watches because buyers were supposed to pay a deposit for them upfront, before receiving them later — a pretty novel concept at the time.
In the Tradition Tourbillon 7047, the tourbillon — invented by Breguet the watchmaker more than two centuries ago — takes centre stage along with a fusée-and-chain mechanism, a classic constant-force mechanism that is quite the visual spectacle.
Related: Breguet’s Type XXI chronograph gets a contemporary update
Housed in a 41mm platinum case, the latest version of the 7407, the Tradition 7047 Tourbillon “Waltz” highlights the key components of the watch in a deep blue: Its titanium tourbillon carriage and gold dial are coated in said hue, while the links of the chain are thermally blued. Linked to the mainspring, the fusee-and-chain transmission helps to ensure that the movement receives a constant supply of energy so that timekeeping is consistent throughout the power-reserve period.
The hand-wound Calibre 569 also features a balance spring — among other components — that is made of silicon, which makes it resistant to magnetic fields.
With a distinctive aesthetic that is classic yet also cool and contemporary, the Breguet Tradition watches are one of our all-time favourite timepieces. The latest Tradition Tourbillon 7047 possesses the family’s signature traditional touches, including the Clous de Paris guilloche off-centre gold dial, Roman numerals and open-tipped hands, but the strategic use of blue gives it a touch of colour and an added dose of modernity.
