Cover Type XX Chronograph 2067 with Nato strap

For devotees of fine chronographs who are not necessarily fans of pilot watches, let’s immediately clarify the background of the Type 20, says Brice Lechevalier

While it is a military term that has inspired the name of several watches, the first wrist chronograph for pilots was indeed ordered from Breguet by the French Air Force nearly 70 years ago. In the wake of its decisive role among the great explorers and sailors of the 19th century, Breguet continued to enrich its incomparable heritage in the service of air navigation in the 20th century. Famous aviators and air forces around the world placed their trust in Breguet throughout its evolution. This unique heritage is being revitalised with this twin line endowed with the latest technologies, the result of a four-year development process.

Civilian and Military Heritage

While the 2057 Type 20 Chronograph pays tribute to its military heritage, the 2067 Type XX Chronograph refers to the civilian versions in the Fifties and Sixties.  Both beat to the reliable rhythm (5Hz frequency and 60h power reserve) of a new self-winding movement with column wheel and vertical clutch: Caliber 7281 for Reference 2057 and Caliber 728 for Reference 2067, both equipped with an escape-wheel, balance spring and pallet horns in silicon.

The balance spring is held in place by a cross-through bridge that protects it from impact. The flyback function is designed to optimise user-friendliness and precision. The entire mechanism is patented and guarantees a level of reliability and chronometry worthy of Breguet’s reputation.

This technical sophistication would be nothing without the aesthetics revealed through the sapphire caseback, where components adorned with sunburst, snailed, chamfered and circular-grained decorations can be admired. One can also enjoy the ballet performed by the rotor, which is shaped like an aircraft wing.

Tatler Asia
Above Type 20 Chronograph 2057 with leather strap

Sporty Chic

Inspired by early air force models with black dials, fluted bidirectional bezels and pear-shaped crowns, the new Type 20 features two counters and mint green numerals and hands.

This distinguishes it from the Type XX (civilian) models with three counters, ivory-coloured numerals and hour-markers, graduated bidirectional bezel and a straight three-position crown (neutral, date, time-setting). 

Both are delivered with interchangeable straps (calf leather and black Nato) and are intended for devotees of high-quality sport watches who enjoy reaching new heights. 

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