Cover Emmanuel Breguet, the vice president and head of patrimony for Breguet (Photo: Fady Younis)
Emmanuel Breguet, the vice president and head of patrimony for Breguet (Photo: Fady Younis)
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Discover how Emmanuel Breguet honours his forebear’s legendary legacy as he preserves the rich heritage of one of horology’s most influential name
When one looks into the history of horology, a name stands as a colossus among giants: Breguet.
For over two centuries, this illustrious maison has been synonymous with innovation, precision, and unparalleled craftsmanship. At the helm of this storied legacy stands Emmanuel Breguet, a direct descendant of the legendary Abraham-Louis Breguet, whose revolutionary designs forever altered the course of timekeeping.
In a rare and enlightening conversation, I had the privilege of delving into the mind of Emmanuel, a man who bridges the gap between a glorious past and an innovative future. As the guardian of a horological dynasty, Emmanuel carries not just a name but the weight of history on his shoulders—a responsibility he bears with both reverence and vision.
Read more: 4 Interesting facts about luxury watch brand Breguet and the Tourbillon
Above A portrait of Abraham Louis Breguet (Photo: Breguet)
A portrait of Abraham Louis Breguet (Photo: Breguet)
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As the vice president and head of patrimony of the historic watchmaker, Emmanuel explains to me that his fundamental role is to be a historian.
“My role is to be a historian. It is to investigate, explain, find, and transmit the knowledge to share," he says. For him, the knowledge, when shared, enriches the understanding and appreciation of Breguet’s profound impact.
Delving deeper into his work, Emmanuel’s words painted vivid pictures of Abraham Louis Breguet’s genius. Known for revolutionising watchmaking, Breguet’s influence is evident in every intricate detail of the brand’s modern creations. Emmanuel spoke of his ancestor not just as a watchmaker but also as visionary who reshaped the art and science of horology.
“Abraham Louis Breguet is probably the most important watchmaker of all time. He changed everything,” he said, almost reverently. “He revolutionised the aesthetics, the design, the techniques, and more. He changed the shape of the watches and found solutions. He continues to influence all the watchmaking profession today.”
Above The Souscription pocket watch (Photo: Breguet)
Above The movement found within the Souscription pocket watch (Photo: Breguet)
The Souscription pocket watch (Photo: Breguet)
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With enthusiasm, Emmanuel recounts tales from the archives, particularly the story of the Souscription pocket watch. This piece, with its minimalist elegance and single-hand design, embodies Breguet’s ability to merge simplicity with technical sophistication.
“It is absolutely fascinating for me,” he explained. “It’s very poetic, and what is fascinating is the combination between the technology and his sense of art. It’s a very simple watch. It’s so simple; it only needs one hand. It is minimalist yet very readable,” Emmanuel describes marking the timepiece as a testament to Breguet’s mastery of timepiece design.
Above For Emmanuel, his forebear is probably the most important individual in the history of watchmaking (Photo: Fady Younis)
For Emmanuel, his forebear is probably the most important individual in the history of watchmaking (Photo: Fady Younis)
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The archives are more than just records; they are windows into the life of Abraham Louis Breguet and the illustrious figures he interacted with. Emmanuel spoke of the myriad personalities Breguet encountered—scientists, royals, and politicians—all drawn to his genius.
“Thanks to the archives, we have the names of the personalities he (Breguet) met. It is very intriguing,” Emmanuel shares. He goes on to describe the fascinating discovery of just how popular his ancestor was and how considered he was amongst the scientists and royalties of Europe during that time. “When he travelled in England, he met the King of England. He met the Czar of Russia. He was considered a high-level scientist, and he was a high-level personality himself. All along his life, he met similar personalities, be it political, diplomatic, scientific people,” he says.
See also: The Tatler Guide to matching watches according to dress codes
Above The Breguet Classique Quantième Perpétuel 7327 collection (Photo: Breguet)
The Breguet Classique Quantième Perpétuel 7327 collection (Photo: Breguet)
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However, even with such a rich archive, there are still mysteries to be unravelled. Emmanuel’s role often involves playing detective, piecing together fragments of history to form a clearer picture of Breguet’s legacy.
“There’s always more to discover,” he said with a smile. “Each piece and component I authenticate or locate brings us closer to a fuller understanding of Breguet’s extraordinary journey.”
Breguet’s tradition of innovation continues to thrive in its modern creations. Emmanuel highlighted advancements like high-frequency technology and the magnetic pivot, innovations that resonate with Breguet’s spirit of intellectual curiosity and problem-solving.
Above Breguet’s Reine de Naples collection is inspired by an early bracelet watch created for Napoleon Bonaparte's sister Caroline, Queen of Naples (Photo: Breguet)
Breguet’s Reine de Naples collection is inspired by an early bracelet watch created for Napoleon Bonaparte's sister Caroline, Queen of Naples (Photo: Breguet)
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Emmanuel also talks about how balancing tradition with modernity is a delicate art at which Breguet excels. He describes how the brand draws inspiration from historical designs, like the Queen of Naples watches, while also embracing contemporary interpretations.
“Our day-night system for the Queen of Naples watch, and other advancements reflect our ongoing commitment to innovation,” he explained. “These modern technologies, while rooted in Breguet’s tradition, push the boundaries of what is possible in watchmaking today.”
“Some pieces are direct inspirations from history, others are free interpretations,” he said. “We maintain our traditional collections while also exploring more avant-garde designs. This flexibility allows us to honour our past while innovating for the future.”
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Above For Breguet’s upcoming anniversary, Emmanuel is working on something special to commemorate the brand’s legacy
For Breguet’s upcoming anniversary, Emmanuel is working on something special to commemorate the brand’s legacy
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As Breguet approaches its 250th anniversary, Emmanuel is immersed in preparations for this significant milestone. He is working on a new book that promises to explore Breguet’s history in unprecedented ways, celebrating its enduring legacy and looking forward to its future.
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Sim Wie Boon is the general manager of Tatler Malaysia. Previously the print and digital editor, Sim hails from the land of the hornbills, Sarawak. Sim is now based in Kuala Lumpur and brings more than a decade of experience in the media industry as a journalist and broadcast producer.
As a self-proclaimed geriatric millennial, he appreciates the finer things in life, from savouring a sip of single malt whisky to relishing in the deliciousness of char siew. While reminiscing about the indie-sleaze era, Sim now finds solace in the soothing tunes of ambient music, staying active through running and occasionally succumbing to the addictive world of doom scrolling.
Follow him on Instagram or Threads at @simwb
