The first thing that comes to mind when we hear Breguet is elegance, and we immediately associate the brand with their Type XXI line.
Type XXI was created in the 1950s for the French naval aviation force, and all of the chronographs in this series include a flyback mechanism that Breguet refers to as “Retour en Vol,” or “flyback” in English.
The Type XXI series consists of two lines of watches: Aéronavale and Transatlantique. The key distinction is that the latter has a date indicator, whereas the former does not. The stainless steel case of the Breguet Type XXI Transatlantique ref. G3817STX23ZU is sturdy and durable, measuring 42.5mm in diameter and 15.4mm in thickness.
The rotating bezel comes in an unusual shape and width; it makes the watch appear bigger than it is. The fluting on the caseband is both uncommon and effective at refracting light, demonstrating the case’s attention to detail. The watch also features a screw-down crown and pump chrono pushers.
Perhaps, the most unique and exciting aspect of this watch is the dial. The dial is made of ruthenium, a rare material utilized by other watchmakers, and it appears brownish or even grey depending on the lighting.
A running seconds register is located at 9, an hour chronograph is located at 6, a trapezoid date aperture is located at 6, and a 24-hour indication is located at 3 o’clock. Two hands located at the centre pinion and a minute scale etched on the dial’s outer ring represent seconds and minutes for the chrono. The diamond-shaped markings and white Arabic numbers round off the dial wonderfully.
The Breguet calibre 584Q movement within this watch has 25 jewels and a power reserve of 48 hours. One disadvantage of this watch is that it has a solid case back; therefore, the calibre cannot be seen as on other Breguet watches.
A brown crocodile strap with a deployant buckle is included with this watch. The strap is lovely and thick as well as comfy. This is a strap that will last a long time and withstand regular wear and tear.
This watch is perfect for everyone who loves the navy force and something that has a historical value on it. For more information about our Breguet collection, visit our nearest The Time Place boutique.
