Well the Breguet Type XXI found it’s way to me today (tough I looked hard at the IWC Portuguese, a JLC MC Chrono, and – GULP - even a couple Pams). Quite simply it is my perfect watch. At 42.5mm it wears much larger – especially on the bracelet, which flows across the fingers like quicksilver and is brushed and polished.
The dial detail is like nothing I’ve had on my wrist. The dial color is neither brown nor charcoal – I’ve concluded it is simply it’s own color. Like it, hate it – it is what it is (I really like it!). The detail down to the sparkling faceted diamond shaped hour markers is perfect. All 3 subdials are different sizes and cut to different depths. Counting the date aperture there are SIX levels in the dial. And it is eminently readable. Maybe the most readable I’ve worn. Lume is quite good.
The head is amazing. Nice coined/fluted edges. The perfectly brushed bezel slopes naturally from the domed crystal.
The Chrono starts without the slightest jump. The Flyback is sure and without any play in the reset. The pushers are firm and not accidently activated. But the thing that got me most was the feel of the crown when winding the movement. I don’t have words to describe it, but it is as if Breguet wants to transmit the movement's winding sensation to the wearer’s fingers. It even has a unique sound to it.
I don’t regret this one at all. Except perhaps the pics that follow.
The opening –
On the wrist -
The brushed center links have polished facets on the top and bottom edges –
Some lume (charged for but a few seconds)–
You gonna get the strap as well?
