Description

Among the most elusive vintage chronographs a collector is likely to encounter, this Breguet reference 319 is a genuine rarity; a two-pusher, single-register chronograph crafted in 18-carat yellow gold, dating to an era when Breguet’s output was extraordinarily limited, and every piece produced carried uncommon horological ambition. The watch is presented in exceptional condition for its age, with an untouched dial, an original three-piece case retaining its hallmark, and a movement whose number corresponds precisely to both the dial and the case.

A Name Rarely Found on a Wrist

Breguet’s early wristwatch production in the 1940s was minuscule by any measure. Unlike the large Swiss movement suppliers who served dozens of brands simultaneously, Breguet operated with extreme selectivity, producing small series of watches for private clients and a handful of retailers. Chronographs from this period were among the most technically demanding pieces in the catalogue, and the survival rate of examples in honest, unrestored condition is correspondingly low.

The serial number 319 is significant in itself. Only one other example of this reference has ever appeared on the open market, numbered 318.

A Three-Piece Case Built to Last

The case is crafted in 18-carat yellow gold in a three-part construction, which is a form favoured by makers of this era for its clean profile and robust seal. The lugs carry gold bars, attached by screw, to accommodate the leather strap; a period-correct detail that speaks to the thoughtfulness of the original design. The smooth bezel frames the dial without distraction, and the square pushers at 2 and 4 o’clock operate the start/stop and reset functions of the chronograph.

The Dial

The dial is white with a striking blue tachymeter scale at the outer register, still vivid and fully legible, showing none of the fading that typically afflicts examples of this vintage. The minute track and sub-dial printing remain crisp and dark. Applied Arabic numerals and dot indices in yellow gold mark the hours, matched by a clean, purposeful handset in the same tone. The running seconds sub-dial sits at 9 o’clock; the 30-minute chronograph counter at 3 o’clock carries a blue central hand, adding contrast to the composition without disrupting the overall restraint of the layout.

Specifications

Brand: Breguet

Model: Reference 319 – Manual Chronograph

Year: circa 1940s

Case material: 18k yellow gold

Case diameter: approx. 33 mm

Bezel: Smooth gold bezel

Dial: White dial with blue tachymeter scale and gold-tone applied Arabic indices

Strap: Black leather strap (crocodile-style)

Movement: Valjoux 23 – manual wind, column wheel chronograph

Condition: Good vintage condition with light signs of wear consistent with age

Accessories: Watch only (no box or papers)

Warranty: 1 year warranty

Availability

This vintage day-date automatic watch is available through Vintage Times Amsterdam.

For further information or high-resolution images, please feel free to contact:

Vintage Times

Vintage Times Amsterdam is a small watch boutique who mainly deals online and with a select group of private collectors. We are constantly looking for rare vintage timepieces and try to present the best condition available. Please don’t hesitate to get in contact for more information about this watch or other timepieces from our collection. We ship worldwide and also welcome you for a visit at our office in Amsterdam.

Vintage Times

email: [email protected]

tel / app: +31 6 4 1111 044