Breitling acquires Gallet—the watch that took flight with the Wright brothers

This marks Breitling’s second attempt to revive a dormant Swiss watchmaking icon, after Universal Genève

It looks like Georges Kern is slowly building a watch empire. The CEO of Breitling just announced its acquisition of Gallet, a Swiss brand that had remained idle since the quartz crisis in the ’70s and ’80s. This follows its revival of Universal Genève in 2023.

Gallet will be positioned as an entry-level luxury sibling brand to Breitling. ”This acquisition is a natural next step in Breitling’s expansion” says Kern. ”We’re reviving Gallet under the umbrella of Breitling’s expertise and craftsmanship. Our vision is long-term – relaunching Gallet as a strong brand in watchmaking, while honouring its legacy of adventure and innovation in chronographs.”

Above The Gallet stopwatch that timed the Wright Brothers' first powered flight

The Gallet stopwatch that timed the Wright Brothers' first powered flight

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Founded by Julien Gallet in La Chaux-de-Fonds in 1826, Gallet built its reputation on the spirit of adventure and long-distance travel. The brand supplied rugged instruments tailored for the worlds of motor racing, aviation, and daring off-road adventures.

One of its most significant timepieces was “The Sun”, a stopwatch that timed the Kitty Hawk flight piloted by Wilbur and Orville Wright in 1903.

Above Gallet MultiChron Regulator from 1936

Gallet MultiChron Regulator from 1936

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Notable collections included the Flying Officer chronograph with multi-timezone tracking and famously worn by President Harry S. Truman, the MultiChron Clamshell waterproof chronograph, and the MultiChron Regulator designed to capture the precision and power of the world of motorsport.

The latest move is an ongoing effort to expand Breitling’s market share in the luxury watch sector. “Acquiring Gallet is the second key move that underscores the long-term strategy we’ve been building.” says Alfred Gantner, co-founder of Partners Group and chairman of Breitling.

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Gallet Breitling Georges Kern

Brian Cheong

Senior Editor, Watches & Jewellery, Tatler Malaysia

Brian Cheong leads the watch (Tatler GMT) and jewellery content at Tatler Malaysia, combining sharp editorial insight with years of luxury lifestyle experience. A seasoned journalist in luxury watches based in Kuala Lumpur, Brian had previously helmed World of Watches, Men's Folio and Prestige Malaysia.