While today we are spoiled by all manner of internet-based navigation devices, in the 18th and 19th centuries, marine chronometers played an essential role in getting seafaring adventurers successfully to their destinations. And Abraham-Louis Breguet created some of the most precise and sought-after pieces, his craftsmanship recognised by King Louis XVIII of France when he made him chronometer-maker to the French Royal Navy in 1815. 

While these technical timekeeping marvels might not be such life-or-death necessities any more, Breguet’s worldtimer timepieces remain a reliable and sophisticated travel companion. Its new Marine Hora Mundi (Ref 5557) continues in this tradition, combining groundbreaking watchmaking with the refined aesthetic for which the maison is renowned. 

Its most impressive feat is the dual-time display with memory function. After setting the time and date in the first city, the wearer then only has to set the second city, displayed at 6 o’clock. From that point on, you can effortlessly switch between the two times with a press of the pusher. Beyond this, the Calibre 77F1 also powers a day/night indicator at 4 o’clock, rendered in sun and moon motifs that have been hand-hammered to create a realistic look. 

The finishing is just as impeccable on the intriguing, multi-dimensional dial, which requires several weeks of work to complete. Here, waves created using a delicate guilloché decorating technique lap against the shores of the continents. These themselves have been given special thought to stand out on the design, with each featuring horizontal satin brushing and being crisply finished with a metallic turquoise border. The deep blue background provides an elegant contrast to the case, available in a choice of rose or white gold. Meanwhile, just as much attention is paid to the practicality, with luminescent highlights across the hours and minutes hands and the hour markers to ensure optimal legibility wherever your next journey takes you.

breguet.com