Hold onto your hats, watch enthusiasts, because Breguet is shaking things up with its latest release—the Breguet Classique 7225. This isn’t just any watch; it’s a bold comeback of the 10Hz chronometry movement paired with a magnetic pivot, a technology so innovative it’s still misunderstood by many. As Breguet celebrates its 250th anniversary, the brand is not just resting on its laurels but reintroducing groundbreaking advancements that pay homage to its rich history of innovation. And this is the part most people miss: this watch isn’t just a nod to the past—it’s a leap into the future of precision timekeeping.
But here’s where it gets controversial: magnetism, traditionally the arch-nemesis of watchmaking, is now being harnessed to enhance precision. How? Breguet’s magnetic-pivot balance and 10Hz high-frequency escapement, first seen in the Classique Chronométrie 7727, are making a triumphant return in the 7225. This technology, which uses magnetic fields to stabilize the balance staff and reduce friction, is a game-changer. But is it a step too far, or the next evolution in watchmaking? Let’s dive in.
Breguet’s legacy of innovation is undeniable—from the tourbillon to the souscription model, Abraham-Louis Breguet’s contributions still resonate in modern mechanical watches. Yet, the magnetic pivot, introduced in 2013, remains one of the brand’s most underrated inventions. Why isn’t it more celebrated? Is it too complex, or are we simply not ready for its brilliance? The 7225 brings this technology back into the spotlight, not just as a technical marvel but also as a stunning piece of design.
Speaking of design, the 7225 is a masterclass in blending tradition with modernity. Gone are the fluted caseband and soldered lugs of the 7727. Instead, the 41mm case in 18K Breguet gold features integrated lugs and a curved profile, reminiscent of the iconic Souscription model. The dial, inspired by A.L. Breguet’s famous No. 1176 pocket watch, is a feast for the eyes, with central hours and minutes, a fan-shaped power reserve, and two small seconds subdials. But here’s the kicker: one of these subdials has a flyback function, turning this watch into a quasi-chronograph. Is this overcomplicating things, or a brilliant addition?
At the heart of the 7225 is the Calibre 74SC, a movement that builds on the 7727’s foundation. The magnetic pivot system, with its micro-magnets and silicon components, ensures unprecedented stability and precision, even in the face of shocks. But does this reliance on magnetism make the watch too fragile, or is it the future of robust timekeeping? The result is a 10Hz frequency (72,000 vibrations/hour) with a certified precision of +/-1 second per day—a feat that’s hard to ignore.
And this is the part most people miss: Breguet has hidden a secret animation in the escape wheel, visible only to the owner. Thanks to the 10Hz frequency, the escape wheel displays a phenakistoscope-like effect, alternating between “1775” and “2025” in a mesmerizing morphing animation. Is this a gimmick, or a brilliant way to celebrate the brand’s legacy?
The 7225 isn’t just a technical marvel; it’s also a work of art. The movement is decorated with hand-engraved bridges and plates in Breguet gold, depicting the Swiss valley where the manufacture is located. But here’s the question: does this level of craftsmanship justify the CHF 75,000 price tag?
As Breguet introduces its new internal certification, the Breguet hallmark, we’re left wondering: what does this mean for the brand’s future, and how will it impact the watchmaking industry? The 7225 is not a limited edition, making this piece of horological history accessible to those who can afford it. But is it worth the investment?
What do you think? Is the Breguet Classique 7225 a masterpiece of innovation, or a step too far into complexity? Let us know in the comments below—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
