In celebration of its 250th anniversary, Breguet has unveiled two new additions to its Classique collection: the Classique 7225 and Classique 7235. The former focuses on cutting-edge breakthroughs in watchmaking technology like high frequency and magnetic pivots, while the latter embodies the historical aesthetics of the legendary N°5 pocket watch from 1794. Breguet rewrites its narrative for the contemporary wrist through these two distinct paths, merging its rich heritage with modern sophistication.
250 years ago, Abraham-Louis Breguet founded this brand in Paris, centered around innovation and rational aesthetics. Departing from the prevalent Rococo decorations of the time, he proposed a watchmaking language characterized by clarity of function, harmonious proportions, and simple structures. Today, the Classique 7225 and 7235 not only embody these principles but also elevate technology and design to new heights, becoming the latest interpretations that honor the spirit of Breguet.
Classique 7235: A Classic on the Wrist Reviving History and Proportions from the 1794 No. 5 Pocket Watch
The Classique 7235 draws inspiration from the No. 5 pocket watch delivered to the writer François Jourgnac Saint-Méard in 1794. This piece is regarded as the origin of Breguet Style due to its layout and proportions. The new model translates the original design into the context of a wristwatch, featuring a diameter of 39mm and a thickness of 9.9mm. It faithfully retains the structural logic of the original, including central hour and minute displays, a power reserve indicator at 10:30, a moon phase at 2 o’clock, and a small seconds hand at 5 o’clock. The dial is further adorned with a multi-layered guilloché pattern that delineates functional areas, enhancing both depth and readability.
The moon phase display is crafted from solid Breguet gold, providing a consistent visual and tactile experience. The entire watch dial is made from the same material, echoing the engraved decorations of the Quai de l’Horloge on the case, bezel, and case back, paying homage to the brand’s rich history stemming from the watchmaking streets of Paris.
In terms of the movement, the 7235 is equipped with the brand new 502.3.DRL automatic winding mechanism, boasting a remarkable thickness of just 3.95 mm but integrating multiple functions such as a small seconds hand, moon phase, and power reserve. Its silicon balance wheel hairspring and inverted escapement system offer exceptional anti-magnetic and stability performance, providing approximately 45 hours of power reserve, with a running frequency of 3 Hz. Through the sapphire case back, one can admire the engraved pattern of the historic map of Paris on the movement plate, originating from the renowned Dulger Map of the 18th century, accurately marking the historical quarter where the brand’s founding workshop is located, adding profound cultural significance to the movement. This limited edition piece is released in only 250 units, with a unique number engraved on the case back, reflecting its collectible value commemorating this special moment.
Classique 7225: 10Hz High Frequency and Magnetic Pivot, Taking Precision to Everyday Wear
If 7235 represents Breguet’s response to classic design and cultural context, then Classique 7225 takes it further by exploring the practical possibilities of Precision in contemporary watchmaking. Drawing inspiration from the No.1176 pocket watch produced between 1802 and 1809, which featured a four-minute tourbillon and a chain wheel structure, this piece was a crystallization of early experiments in constant force output. The 7225 continues the Double second hand design, showcasing a conventional small second hand at 2 o’clock, while the flyback second hand at 10 o’clock can be reset via a pusher at 8 o’clock. This dual timekeeping function also serves as a mid-time measurement, echoing the prototype of the flyback mechanism that Breguet first created in 1820.
The 7225’s biggest breakthrough comes from its 74SC manual winding movement, which boasts an impressive frequency of 10 Hertz (72,000 times per hour). Thanks to its magnetic pivot technology, it maintains stable timekeeping even during prolonged use. This unique pivot structure installs micro magnets at the end of the balance wheel axle, limiting contact to the axle’s tip and minimizing friction. This enhancement not only boosts shock resistance but also ensures precise performance across six different wearing positions. With a daily timekeeping error controlled within ±1 second, it proves that high frequency is not merely a specification but translates into practical utility for everyday wear. Combined with silicon double hairsprings, an escapement fork, and escapement wheel, the entire system reaches an ideal state of high frequency, low friction, and excellent stability, with a power reserve extended to 60 hours.
Visually, the 7225 features a 41mm 18K Breguet gold case with a thickness of 10.7mm, complemented by a deep blue crocodile leather strap and a gold pin buckle. The dial decoration is based on the same Quai de l’Horloge engraving theme as the 7235, echoing the brand’s origins. The blue Breguet moon-shaped hour and minute hands create a striking contrast against the blue background, paired with a sapphire crystal case back that beautifully showcases the hand-finished movement and engraving details. The case back is also etched with the BREGUET: 250 Years commemorative inscription.
Two languages, one belief: expressing the depth of tradition through contemporary means
Between the Classique 7225 and 7235, Breguet draws from Timekeeping Accuracy and Historical Design to embody the watchmaking philosophy the brand has upheld since the eighteenth century. One piece pays tribute to historical pocket watches, while the other explores the mechanical limits through magnetism and high frequency. Both watches unify their visual style with Breguet’s iconic proportions and decorative language, creating a dialogue and forming a cohesive whole.
The Classique 7225 is part of the regular collection, with a reference price of HK$639,400, while the Classique 7235 is a limited edition of 250 pieces, priced at HK$554,100. These two timepieces not only encapsulate 250 years of watchmaking expertise and design philosophy but also showcase how Breguet reimagines classic syntax within a contemporary context, deftly blending history, aesthetics, and innovation, continuing to lead the charge in the world of mechanical watches.
