Just serviced by Breguet, this early type XX must be one of the best available. Model reference 3800.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the supplied paperwork, which shows the same serial number that appears on the case back, we can accurately date this watch to being sold in February 1996.
CONDITION
Breguet have few peers in watchmaking, and this model features developments of two of Abraham Louis Breguet’s inventions – automatic winding (1780) and chronograph (1820), as well as shock protection he also invented. It is a measure of how high in regard Breguet was is held that the best biography of him was written by George Daniels – the only such book Daniels wrote.
The Type XX was first commissioned by the French Air Force in 1954, and this is the third generation that launched in 1995 . You can read all about the models history on this excellent Springbar article. An original 1950’s watch might cost north of £30,000, if you can find one. While the Type XX range is still available from Breguet (starting from £12.900), the timeline of this one shows it was produced before Swatch Group bought Breguet.
This is example has just had an expensive and thorough service by Breguet, so mechanically it is in top condition. We refused the offer of new hands and dial, as the way the tritium lume has faded on this is wonderful (We do wish companies wouldn’t offer to swap these things!). This watch has the early gold capped crown, sapphire glass and butterfly clasp – the sides of the clasp are profiled like a plane wing, as is the box. The only thing that is not original is the leather strap – we wouldn’t be able to export the alligator straps Breguet supply so we have stuck with the leather example you see. It has unusual measurement of 21mm lugs and 16mm at the clasp, so off the shelf items will be limited.
This watch will be supplied with the original presentation box, papers and our Certificate of Authenticity.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 42.9 mm
Width without crown 39.3 mm
Between lugs 21 mm
Lug to lug length 45.2 mm
Case Thickness 14.5 mm
All sizes are approximate.
Included with this watch is a 6 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
