The minute repeater is charming and sophisticated and is an extraordinary complication in the history of watchmaking. As an outstanding master in the field of watchmaking, Mr. Abraham-Louis Breguet showed a keen interest in this and actively explored the improvement of this mechanical device. Therefore, as early as 1783, the first minute repeater watches were created that used leaf springs instead of the bells that were common at the time. The new Classique 7637 minute repeater further demonstrates this skill.
The sounding device inside this replica watch consists of gongs and hammers. These parts need to be made of materials with significant acoustic properties, and must be small and delicate enough to fit the size of the case. The production of this technology requires watchmakers to have rich experience and superb manual skills. The production of each minute repeater device takes more than a month.
In addition to watchmakers who are proficient in complex functions, acousticians who pursue excellent sound quality also play an indispensable role in the development of this watch. After the movement is assembled, the gongs need to be tuned in two stages: tone and timbre and melody and rhythm. Experts first determine the resonant frequency of each gong in a soundproof chamber specially designed for this complex timepiece. Once the tone is determined, they look for the melody that is closest to the Breguet sound signature. Since each watch is handmade, the sound quality of each watch is slightly different, making it even more unique.
The dial design of the Breguet Classique 7637 minute repeater watch is simple and uses a rare special process: the “Grand Feu” enamel process. Enamel is made from a mixture of silica and ground oxides. This colored powder is dissolved in water and applied to the dial through a variety of methods. The key to production is firing, with each layer of enamel and color applied to the watch requiring a precise additional firing at a specific temperature of over 800 degrees Celsius. In a high-temperature environment, the enamel ignites and melts, forming a coating. It takes weeks to create a dial in the ideal shade. Breguet numerals, minute scales and Breguet logo are outlined in silver powder on the dial. Hours and minutes are indicated by gold Breguet hands. Finally, the minute repeater function can be activated through the slider at 9 o’clock.
The 7637 minute repeater watch has a diameter of 42 mm and is now available in rose gold. It has a built-in 567.2 movement and a vibration frequency of 2.5 Hz. Turn the watch over and you can admire the fully hand-engraved hand-wound movement and polished stainless steel hammers through the sapphire glass case back. In addition to the aesthetic craftsmanship in decoration, this movement is also unique in the design of the positions of the gongs, gong seats and hammers. The gongs are fixed to the middle frame of the case rather than to the plywood, so they vibrate directly and transmit sound more effectively. In addition, the gold gongs make the time sound harmonious and have rich partials (overtones). The material also has another advantage: since the case is also made of gold, the components have the same acoustic impedance, allowing for better sound transmission and higher performance – Breguet has officially applied for a patent for this.
The new Classique 7637 minute repeater watch is equipped with a black alligator leather strap and a gold triple folding clasp. In addition, this series of watches is also available in white gold, equipped with a midnight blue “grand feu” enamel dial and an alligator leather strap.
The advent of this Breguet Classique 7637 minute repeater watch is not only a tribute to watchmaking craftsmanship, but also a perfect combination of tradition and innovation. Its exquisite craftsmanship and elegant design inject eternal charm into modern wrists, leaving a moving melody for time. Whether it is the delicate carving of enamel craftsmanship or the exquisite interpretation of the rhythm of gongs, they all demonstrate Breguet’s extraordinary attainments in the field of watchmaking. In the years to come, this watch will surely become a precious collection, forever shining in the halls of fine watchmaking, adding a splendid chapter to the legendary Breguet heritage.