Interest in Breguet has been steadily growing among collectors who admire the brand’s rich watchmaking heritage. Now, that quiet enthusiasm is about to take center stage with Sotheby’s Breguet auction—the largest sale dedicated to the esteemed maison in over 30 years.
Sotheby’s has officially announced that the auction will take place this November in Geneva as part of its Luxury Sales series. Curated in collaboration with Montres Breguet and Emmanuel Breguet (Vice President, Head of Patrimony, and a direct descendant of the founder), this highly anticipated event will showcase an extraordinary selection of Breguet’s most historic timepieces.
A Landmark Auction for Breguet Collectors
Breguet is one of the most influential names in horology and a crown jewel of the Swatch Group portfolio. Abraham-Louis Breguet, the brand’s legendary founder, revolutionized watchmaking with inventions such as the tourbillon and the automatic winding system. His creations have graced the wrists of royalty and historical figures, including Queen Marie Antoinette, Napoleon Bonaparte, King George III, and Russian tsars.
Now, as Breguet celebrates its 250th anniversary, Sotheby’s Breguet auction will honor this extraordinary legacy with a once-in-a-generation sale.
“As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we are honoring the creative genius of Abraham-Louis Breguet and his many inventions,” said Gregory Kissling, Breguet’s Chief Executive Officer. “This auction is not just a moment of transition but a heartfelt celebration of our shared passion for the art of watchmaking and, more specifically, the art of Breguet—a timeless legacy of innovation and elegance. We are deeply grateful to Sotheby’s for their expertise in organizing this exceptional auction,” he added.
What to Expect From The Sotheby’s Breguet Auction
While Sotheby’s is yet to reveal the full catalog, one extraordinary piece has already been announced: a rare Breguet pocket watch made for King George IV of the United Kingdom. This remarkable timepiece, crafted in 1827, features the King’s monogram on the case back and showcases many of the signature design elements that define Breguet’s modern watches.
Despite being nearly 200 years old, the watch embodies the hallmarks of the brand—true guilloché dials, elegant Breguet hands, and a distinctive nameplate. No estimate has been set yet for the 1827 Perpétuelle à Tact, but given its royal provenance and historical significance, it is expected to command a significant sum.
In addition to this remarkable piece, the auction will also feature:
– A superb open-faced Breguet montre à tact with calendar and moon phases, which served as the inspiration for Reference 3330.
– An important pendulette featuring an alarm, perpetual calendar, and repeater.
– A two-tone gold open-faced tourbillon watch showcasing Breguet’s technical mastery.
A Historic Sale in the Making
Though Sotheby’s Breguet auction won’t take place until November, anticipation is already building. Sotheby’s has confirmed that more details about the sale will be announced in late spring, with additional highlights expected to be unveiled in the coming months.
Collectors and enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting what is sure to be one of the most significant horological auctions of the decade. One thing is certain—this event will be a defining moment in the celebration of Breguet’s 250-year legacy.
Featured image: Breguet
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