New Delhi: Breguet symbolises both history and luxury. One of Breguet's mottoes is, “In every woman is a queen.” The motto was introduced for Breguet's lady's collection, the Reine de Naples collection.
Breguet was founded in 1775 by Abraham-Louis Breguet, a Swiss watchmaker. Breguet watches are often easily recognised for their coin-edge cases, guilloche dials and blue pomme hands (often now referred to as ‘Breguet hands’).
In addition to watches, Breguet also manufactures writing instruments, women's jewellery, and cufflinks. It is the epitome of excellence and forms a part of the European cultural heritage. Its creations have graced the wrists of some of the greatest figures in history.
The famous Breguet archives house the details of every watch sold since the end of the eighteenth century. The development of the first wristwatch, which was ordered by the Queen of Naples and completed in 1812, is a rare tale of emotion, finesse and a high taste for luxury.
Caroline Murat, Napoleon Bonaparte’s younger sister during her reign over Naples, was known as a great supporter of the arts. In 1810, the watchmaker, established at Quai de l’Horloge in Paris, began an unprecedented creation for the Queen of Naples: a watch designed to be worn on the wrist.
This would be the world’s first known wristwatch. It had a wristlet of hair and gold thread that allowed it to be worn on the wrist. The Breguet Reine de Naples Coeur 9825 featured an ingenious means of expressing the minutes.
A heart-shaped minute hand alters its profile, following the contours of the egg-shaped case and briefly expresses meaning with an abundance of style. The hours are shown via an arcing aperture at the centre of the dial. The self-winding movement offers convenience, while the diamond-set case bestows a high-quotient of glamour.
Other distinctive features are the small crown at 4 o’clock and the ball attachment at 6 o’clock which joins the case to a satin strap or woven gold or steel bracelet - in reference to the wristlet of entwined gold and hair, described in Breguet’s archives.
The wealth of complications, when presented with such artistry, has made the Reine de Naples an icon of classical horology - and a fitting tribute to a truly regal timepiece whose fate remains shrouded in mystery.
Stories about Breguet products and each of these famed personalities are each independent discussions unto themselves. Today, the artisans at the House of Breguet continue to make unique works of art that bear witness to the brand’s rich history.
If you are connoisseur of luxury watches and want to possess a piece of Reine de Naples along with the rich legacy of finery, finesse and history you can have a look at the collection of Johnson Watch Company store at Connaught Place in New Delhi or seek an appointment with Mr. Anil Madan or Mr. Ankit Madan at 011-41513121.
