Breguet Announces the Marine Tourbillon 5577

The concept of the tourbillon emerged on June 26, 1801, conceived by the horological genius Abraham-Louis Breguet. He began with the insight that the consistency of watch movements was being disrupted by Earth’s gravity, mainly since timepieces of that era were typically worn in a vertical position on the body. This orientation caused rate discrepancies due to gravitational effects. To counteract this issue of earthly gravity, Breguet innovated by housing the entire escapement in a rotating carriage that completed a full circle every minute. This design systematically replicated and nullified the errors. Furthermore, the constant alteration in the contact points of the balance pivots within their jewelled bearings enhanced lubrication. This ingenious approach led to the creation of the tourbillon. Over two centuries later, this intricate mechanism remains a pinnacle of watchmaking artistry, celebrated by Breguet in its Marine collection.

Encased within the 42.5 mm diameter is the self-winding Calibre 581, a remarkably slender movement with a thickness of just 3 mm and composed of 330 parts. The balance operates at 4hz and boasts a notable power reserve of 80 hours. To integrate the latest technological advancements, the calibre incorporates a titanium carriage and a silicon balance spring. Silicon, known for its versatile qualities, offers resistance to corrosion and wear and is more resistant to magnetic fields.

The exquisite craftsmanship of the new Breguet watch’s movement is showcased through its sapphire case-back. Adorning the barrel drum is a meticulously designed compass rose. Additionally, the timepiece features several decorative elements of the Marine line, including the distinctive straight ribbed motif.

The new 5577 models feature a sunburst dial, presented in a slate-grey shade for the rose gold variant and a deep navy blue for the platinum version. Attracting immediate attention is the tourbillon at 5 o’clock, with its cage completing a rotation every 60 seconds. The chapter ring is deliberately off-centred to emphasize this feature. Additionally, the hour markers and the distinct open-tipped Breguet hands are crafted in gold and are luminescent for enhanced visibility.

Acknowledged as a preeminent scientist and technician, Abraham-Louis Breguet’s fate intertwined with the French Navy in 1814, when a royal decree appointed him to the Bureau des Longitudes. This bureau’s task included addressing the challenges of using astronomical methods for maritime longitude determination. The following year, King Louis XVIII gave him a highly esteemed honour: the title of Chronometer-maker to the Royal Navy. Consequently, the fleets of the world’s greatest explorers set sail equipped with Breguet’s precision timekeeping instruments. Thus, this new timepiece pays homage to Breguet’s legacy, honouring his significant contributions to both naval exploration and the field of astronomy.

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