The minute repeater is a fascinating and sophisticated complication that is truly remarkable in the history of watchmaking. As an outstanding watchmaker, Mr. Abraham-Louis Breguet also had a keen interest in minute repeaters and worked hard to explore how to improve them. As early as 1783, Mr. Breguet innovatively designed one of the first minute repeaters to use leaf springs instead of the bells used at the time, giving this mechanical device new vitality. Today, the new Classique 7637 minute repeater once again takes this complication to a new level, paying tribute to the brand’s history and tradition.
Exquisite rhythm created by craftsmanship
As a grand complication in the world of fine watchmaking, the minute repeater is an outstanding representative in the field of micromechanics. It not only requires exquisite watchmaking skills, but also requires in-depth study of acoustic characteristics. In addition to the movement, the core part of the minute repeater watch is a sounding device composed of gongs and hammers. These parts must undergo strict screening and fine processing to ensure that they can work properly within the appropriately sized case. Every step from material selection to assembly of the minute repeater device needs to be strictly controlled. It usually takes three months to make one. Breguet has been inheriting this craft for nearly 250 years in its watchmaking factory in the Vallée de Joux, Switzerland. Their watchmakers are not only highly skilled craftsmen, but also acousticians who pursue excellent sound quality.
After the movement is assembled, tuning the gongs is a crucial step. It includes two stages: tone and timbre (harmonic), melody and rhythm (melodic). In soundproof chambers designed specifically for complex timepieces, experts conduct a series of tests and adjustments to ensure that each gong reaches the optimal resonance frequency. The watchmakers who reproduce Breguet watches are not only satisfied with achieving a certain pitch, they also pursue perfection. In the process of adjusting the tone and melody, they will continue to try and modify until they find the melody that is closest to the sound characteristics of Breguet.
The fusion of “technology” and “art”: one watch, multiple skills
Although the replica Breguet Classique 7637 minute repeater watch has a simple appearance, its dial design uses a very special and rare “Grand Feu” enamel process. This enamel is made from a mixture of silica and oxide powders, which are then coated on the dial after special treatment. Each layer of enamel and color needs to be fired at a specific temperature of over 800 degrees Celsius, where the enamel melts and forms a coating. In order to create the ideal shade, this process can take a long time.
Replica Breguet’s digital time scales, minute scales and brand logo are all outlined in silver powder on the dial, which is clear and eye-catching. The hours and minutes are indicated by gold Breguet hands, which are elegant and precise. Finally, through the slider at 9 o’clock, you can activate the minute repeater function of this watch and enjoy its charming sound.
The replica Breguet Classique 7637 minute repeater watch, with a diameter of 42 mm, is presented in a new rose gold style, showing luxury and elegance. This watch is equipped with the excellent 567.2 movement, with a vibration frequency of up to 2.5 Hz, ensuring stable and precise operation. Gently turn the watch over and through the sapphire glass bottom cover, you can have an unobstructed view of the hand-engraved hand-wound movement and the wonderful details of the polished stainless steel hammer. These exquisite craftsmanship and designs not only give the watch a unique appearance, but also demonstrate Breguet’s ultimate pursuit of watchmaking craftsmanship.
In this movement, the positions of the gongs, gong seats and hammers are uniquely designed. The gong is cleverly fixed to the middle frame of the case rather than to the plywood, which allows it to vibrate more directly and transmit sound more effectively. This design ensures the clarity and propagation effect of the time-telling sound.
The gold gongs add harmony and rich overtones to the sound of the time. In addition, because the watch case is also made of gold, the acoustic impedance between components remains consistent, which makes sound transmission smoother and improves the performance of the movement. Breguet has officially applied for a patent for this design.
Unique and innovative ideas
As early as 1783, the first minute repeaters using leaf springs instead of traditional bells appeared. This leaf spring is initially straight and extends from the bottom plate to the bottom of the case. Later, the spring leaf gradually evolved into a design that surrounds the movement. This not only significantly reduces the thickness of the minute repeater, but also makes the sound of the watch clearer, purer and more harmonious. This spring leaf design was widely recognized and used, and was favored by many watchmakers at that time.