Classique Tourbillon Extra-Plat Automatique

 
Previewed at Baselworld 2013, Breguet’s Classique Tourbillon extra-plat automatique returns to the stage nobly dressed in platinum. Its looks are matched by ingenuity, for this extra-thin watch houses one of the more spectacular horological inventions – an off-centred tourbillon of which the lightened titanium carriage carries a Breguet balance with a silicon balance spring, as well as a specially developed escapement.
 
These technical features notably enable the balance of the calibre 581DR movement powering this Classique Grande Complication to reach the frequency of 4Hz, which is high for a tourbillon balance. This does not imply any loss of power reserve, for the patented high-energy barrel keeps the reference 5377 going for up to 80 hours off the wrist. To keep the thickness of the movement down to 3 mm in a 7 mm-high case, Breguet designed a peripheral rotor in platinum, winding in both directions of spin. This technical achievement makes the reference 5377 the thinnest self-winding tourbillon currently on the market.
 
The stylistic features of the dial of this 42 mm platinum wristwatch include four different engine-turned patterns executed by hand as a mark of respect for the old traditions of supreme workmanship and flawless finish. The hours and minutes chapter is enhanced by a clou de Paris hobnail pattern edged by a barleycorn motif. The power-reserve indicator at 8:30 is decorated with engine-turned strait chevrons, while each element has a cross-hatched border. A blue sapphire set into the centre of the tourbillon bridge draws the eye to the hands. This new self-winding extra-thin Classique Grande Complication Tourbillon shows off its class as a pure Breguet creation, combining timeless styling and cutting-edge technology.