BREGUET. A FINE AND VERY ATTRACTIVE 18K WHITE GOLD AND BAGUETTE-DIAMOND-SET SKELETONISED CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH SIGNED BREGUET, CLASSIQUE MODEL, REF. 5238, CASE NO. 3214, CIRCA 2008 Movement: Cal. 533 SQ, manual, 21 jewels, signed Dial: Signed Case: Glazed display back secured 7 screws, 41.5 mm. diam., signed With: 18k white gold Breguet deployant clasp, undated Certificate of Origin and Warranty, instruction manual, presentation box and outer packaging
The present watch belongs to the Breguet Classique family, displaying great characteristics of the brand's perception of artistry, traditional values, and more importantly, fine watchmaking.
While the majority of Breguet Classiques are offered in the more traditional and austere combination of yellow gold case and silvered engraved dial, the reference 5238 Classique Chronograph offered here is considerably more decadent.
With a combination of a beautifully engraved and skeletonized movement and oversized white gold case set with an incredible 96 baguette cut diamonds totaling approximately 13 carats across the bezel, band and lugs, this is a watch that makes a statement like no other.
The calibre 533 SQ shows not only Breguet's well-known ability for fine engraving commonly seen in their dials, but also how a movement can be skeletonised to accentuate the details and allow the wearer to gain a clearer understanding of how a mechanical watch functions: from the compensated balance wheel with swan neck regulator on an engraved balance cock, to the open mainspring barrel and column wheel chronograph. It is highly recommended for prospective bidders to spend some time with a loupe and take in all the breathtaking details of this magnificent piece.