Description:
BREGUET PERPETUAL CALENDAR CHRONOGRAPH REF. 3617 YG
Breguet is a high-end watch brand that was established in Paris, France in 1775 by Abraham-Louis Breguet, who was originally a watchmaker in Switzerland. Breguet was renowned for creating exceptional timepieces and innovative inventions like the tourbillon and over-coil hairspring, which are still utilized in watches today. Even after his death in 1823, the company was led by his family members for several generations until it was sold to Edward Brown, the factory manager, in 1870. Over the years, the brand changed hands several times, with Chaumet and Investcorp S.A. being among its owners. In 1999, the Swatch Group purchased which continues to respectfully carry on the century-old tradition of Breguet.
The present watch is an exceptional Breguet wristwatch manufactured in the early 90’s. It bears the reference 3617 and features an exquisite Lemania based movement with a perpetual calendar and chronograph complication. Reference 3617 predates the well-known Breguet Perpetual Calendar Chronograph 5617, originating in the early 2000s. The two watches share almost identical features, with the primary distinction being the screw-back case on the 5617. Collectors highly value the earlier 3617 model, as it was produced in fewer numbers compared to the more recent 5617, making it a sought-after piece in the watch-collecting community. The overall condition is truly exceptional, likely unpolished with factory finishes still intact. The dial has no spots or scratches, and the fine movement is in perfect working order. The case is 38 millimeters in size and it has a great presence on the wrist. This spectacular watch fully testifies to Breguet’s horological mastery.
Year early 90s, Diameter 38mm, Serial Number 12XX.