Born out of necessity, the first minute repeater was invented prior to the advent of electricity — and SuperLumiNova. During the 17th century, it was difficult to tell the time after dark, with watchmakers vying for increasingly ingenious solutions. The earliest minute repeater was invented around 1680, setting the groundwork for further innovation. In 1783, clockmaker Abraham-Louis Breguet (yes, that Breguet) created the first repeating watches striking a spring blade rather than the bell-type gong typically used at the time. The streamlined nature of these blades meant they reduced the thickness of these chiming timepieces while improving sound quality.
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The new Breguet Classique 7637 Répétition Minutes represents a modern take on the horological complication. While minimal, the dial is far from uncomplicated, with the glossy black effect achieved through grand feu enamelling. The deep black hue is attained through a combination of silica and ground oxide powders, which are dissolved before being applied to the dial, which a firing process after each layer. When the dial comes into contact with heat, the enamel ignites and melts to create each layer; with each dial taking up to a few weeks to create.
Upon this surface, Breguet Arabic numerals, the minutes track, and the Breguet logo are applied using a powdered silver colour, while the hour and minute hands take shape in rose gold.
The 42mm case is crafted from rose gold, with the slide at 9 o’clock triggering the minute repeater function. The timepiece is powered by the hand-wound calibre 567.2, with the intricately hand-chased movement visible through the exhibition caseback. In addition to the striking engravings, the movement employs unique positioning; with the gongs fixed to the middle rather than the plate. As a result, they vibrate directly and transmit sound more effectively. Made from gold, the gongs share the same material as the case, resulting in the same acoustic impedance which provides better sound transmission and performance.
The Breguet Classique 7637 Répétition Minutes is presented on a black alligator leather strap, secured by a gold B-signed triple-folding clasp. The timepiece is also available in white gold with a midnight blue grand feu dial and alligator leather strap.
Priced at $362,500AUD, it’s available via the Breguet webstore.
Words by John Deckard
