The Breguet Tradition Quantième Rétrograde Ref. 7097BB/G1/9WU in white gold features an openworked dial with an off-centered time display and retrograde seconds
A Tribute to Mastery
The Breguet Tradition 7097BB/G1/9WU is a masterful homage to the legacy of Abraham-Louis Breguet, one of history’s most influential watchmakers. Inspired by the historic subscription watches from the late 18th century, this model encapsulates the essence of Breguet’s pioneering spirit, blending classical design with modern innovation. Subscription watches were revolutionary for their time due to their simple construction and durability, and Breguet’s reinterpretation breathes new life into this heritage, offering collectors a watch that is both deeply historical and strikingly contemporary.
Dial and Design Details
This timepiece is distinguished by its openworked dial, which proudly exposes the complex mechanics usually hidden beneath the surface. Rather than concealing the movement, Breguet celebrates it, allowing wearers to observe the interplay of gears, springs, and levers that drive the watch. This architectural transparency is a signature of the Tradition line, designed to highlight the precision engineering and refined finishing of each component. Every bridge and wheel is meticulously polished and beveled by hand, creating a captivating mechanical landscape that evolves with every glance.
The off-centered sub-dial located at 12 o’clock is the focal point for telling time. Crafted from silver and decorated with Breguet’s signature “Clous de Paris” guilloché pattern, it offers a refined texture that contrasts beautifully with the mechanical backdrop. The classic Roman numerals frame the dial, paired with blued steel Breguet hands known for their slender, elegant form. This off-center placement not only enhances legibility but also contributes to the watch’s balanced visual composition, drawing attention while respecting the exposed mechanics below.
Adding a dynamic element to the watch is the retrograde seconds display, located between 4 and 7 o’clock. This complication features a seconds hand that moves along a semi-circular arc, sweeping gracefully before snapping back to zero to begin again. This retrograde motion is more than an aesthetic flourish; it’s a complex mechanical feat that showcases Breguet’s technical prowess. It reflects the brand’s historical role as a pioneer in chronometry, merging functional precision with artistic expression, and offers an engaging experience for the wearer.
Movement and Complications
At the core of the Tradition 7097 beats the Caliber 505SR1, a high-performance automatic movement composed of 215 components. This movement operates at a traditional frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz), providing a smooth and reliable rhythm. Thanks to the integration of advanced silicon technology in its Breguet overcoil balance spring and inverted straight-line lever escapement, the caliber offers superior precision, enhanced resistance to magnetic fields, and improved durability. The movement’s 50-hour power reserve ensures dependable timekeeping for extended periods without winding.
Functional Features
The reverse side of the watch reveals an equally stunning view through a sapphire caseback. Unlike typical watches with central rotors that obstruct the movement, the Tradition 7097 features a peripherally mounted, off-centered 22K gold rotor. This innovative design allows for a near-complete view of the movement’s finishing details, including polished steel parts, mirror-polished screws, and finely chamfered edges. The rotor itself is finely engraved and skeletonized, turning smoothly with wrist motion to keep the watch powered, marrying functionality with exquisite decoration.
Case and Dimensions
Encasing this mechanical marvel is a 39mm 18K white gold case finished to the highest standards. The case features the distinctive Breguet fluted caseband, a delicate grooved pattern that adds texture and elegance while providing grip for winding. The case’s refined proportions ensure comfortable wear, while the slightly domed sapphire crystal offers distortion-free visibility of the dial. The crystal is treated with anti-reflective coating to maximize clarity, enhancing the watch’s readability under all lighting conditions.
Strap and Wearabillity
Completing the refined aesthetic is a dark blue alligator leather strap, which complements the watch’s blue accents on the dial and hands. The strap is meticulously crafted for durability and comfort, stitched by hand and fitted with a matching white gold folding clasp that secures the watch firmly while maintaining its luxurious appearance. This choice of strap material and color reinforces the watch’s elegant, formal character, making it suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Brequet: The Standard of Prestige
Every Breguet Tradition 7097 is individually numbered and recorded in the brand’s archives, emphasizing the exclusivity and heritage associated with each piece. This unique serial number ensures traceability and authenticity, a testament to Breguet’s commitment to craftsmanship and legacy. Owning this watch is not merely about keeping time—it’s about possessing a tangible connection to centuries of horological excellence and innovation.
The Tradition 7097 in white gold is more than a technical achievement; it is a poetic fusion of history, artistry, and modern watchmaking technology. It reflects Breguet’s enduring dedication to elegance, precision, and innovation—values that have defined the brand for over two centuries. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, this watch represents a meaningful dialogue between the past and the present, beautifully encapsulated in a wristwatch that tells not just time, but a story.
Explore at Jewels By Love represents the perfect harmony of timeless elegance, exceptional craftsmanship, and heartfelt passion. Each piece is thoughtfully designed and meticulously crafted to celebrate life’s most precious moments, making it more than just jewelry — it’s a meaningful expression of love and artistry. Whether worn daily or reserved for special occasions, Jewels by Love captures beauty, emotion, and sophistication in every detail, offering collectors and admirers a truly unforgettable experience.
| Brand | Breguet |
|---|---|
| Case Metal | White gold |
| Case Width (mm) | 40 |
| Case Length (mm) | 40 |
| Diameter (mm) | 40 |
| Case Shape | Round |
| Water Resistance (m) | 30 |
| Case Back Material | Sapphire Crystal |
| Exhibition Back | Yes |
| Case Thickness (mm) | 11.8 |
Breguet is renowned as one of the most prolific and the most respected watch manufacturers in the world. The company was founded in 1775 by Abraham-Louis Breguet. For around 250 years now, Breguet has made some of the most notable and legendary watches in the world. The company’s designs are characterized by extreme attention to detail and a strong penchant for innovation. Breguet watches are known for their intricate engineering and stunning aesthetics. Every detail of the watches is designed to enhance both the aesthetics and the function of the watch. These factors make Breguet watches a great choice for watch collectors and wearers who seek a watch that looks as good as it performs.
