The Breguet Classique Tourbillon 3358 (Reference: 3358BB/8D/986 D0) is more than just a timepiece—it is a rare masterpiece that embodies the pinnacle of Swiss watchmaking. For those with a deep appreciation for horological artistry and innovation, the Classique Tourbillon 3358 is a modern-day legend, seamlessly blending over two centuries of tradition with cutting-edge technical expertise. In this article, we explore what makes this extraordinary watch a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs of fine timepieces.
A Legacy of Innovation
Since its founding in 1775 by Abraham-Louis Breguet, the house of Breguet has been at the forefront of horological advancement. From the invention of the tourbillon to the development of the first wristwatch for women, Breguet’s influence is both vast and transformative. With the Classique Tourbillon 3358, Breguet honours its founder’s legacy while continuing to push the boundaries of fine watchmaking.
At the heart of the Classique Tourbillon 3358 lies Breguet’s patented tourbillon—an iconic complication that has become synonymous with precision and craftsmanship. Originally designed to counteract the gravitational forces that affect timekeeping in pocket watches, the tourbillon is now a mark of distinction in the finest mechanical watches. The Classique Tourbillon 3358 takes this historic innovation to the next level, encapsulating Breguet’s commitment to both tradition and future-facing innovation.
Design and Aesthetics: A True Expression of Elegance
For those familiar with Breguet, the Classique Tourbillon 3358 will immediately evoke the elegance and sophistication that the brand is known for. Housed in a sleek, 39mm platinum case, this timepiece offers an understated yet highly refined presence on the wrist. The platinum case ensures not only durability but also a subtle, lustrous sheen that highlights the watch’s true luxury.
The dial of the Classique Tourbillon 3358 is a work of art in itself. Featuring a rich blue guilloché pattern, the dial is hand-engraved with meticulous attention to detail. This fine craftsmanship results in a textured, radiant surface that catches the light in different ways depending on the angle—an effect that brings an added dimension to the watch’s beauty. Breguet-style hands, delicate and slender, sweep across the dial, lending a timeless elegance to the watch’s overall look.
At 6 o’clock, the tourbillon cage rotates, visible through a small aperture, and offers a dramatic reminder of the watch’s exceptional mechanics. The rotating mechanism, with its intricate hand-finishing, is not just a technical marvel but a visual spectacle in itself. For horology enthusiasts, this feature is the very essence of what makes the Classique Tourbillon 3358 stand apart from other fine timepieces.
Movement: Precision and Mastery
Powering the Breguet Classique Tourbillon 3358 is the Caliber 558—a high-performance automatic movement that exemplifies the brand’s mastery of Swiss watchmaking. The movement features a self-winding system and is meticulously finished, with decorative touches such as Côtes de Genève stripes, circular graining, and polished screws that are the hallmarks of Breguet’s commitment to aesthetics and precision.
The tourbillon at the heart of the movement is the star of the show, rotating once every minute to compensate for the effects of gravity on the escapement. With a power reserve of approximately 50 hours, this complex movement delivers exceptional timekeeping accuracy, even when the watch is not being worn.
Through the transparent sapphire caseback, owners are treated to a stunning view of the movement’s intricate mechanics, revealing the level of craftsmanship that goes into every Breguet watch. Each detail—from the hand-engraved bridges to the polished gold accents—speaks to the centuries-old techniques that have been passed down through generations of Breguet artisans.
The Tourbillon: A Symbol of Precision and Prestige
The tourbillon complication is, without question, one of the most sought-after features in high-end watchmaking. Invented by Breguet himself in 1795, the tourbillon was originally created to mitigate the effects of gravity on pocket watches, improving their accuracy. Today, the tourbillon is revered not only for its functional benefits but also for its aesthetic appeal. In the Classique Tourbillon 3358, the rotating cage at 6 o’clock is both an engineering marvel and a visual delight, making this timepiece a true showcase of Breguet’s technical mastery.
For the serious collector, owning a Breguet tourbillon is more than just a symbol of wealth—it is a statement of a deep appreciation for the craft of watchmaking and the historical significance of this complication.
Price: An Investment in Legacy
The Breguet Classique Tourbillon 3358 represents the ultimate expression of luxury and precision. As expected from a timepiece of this calibre, the price reflects its exceptional craftsmanship, rarity, and heritage. Priced at approximately AUD $295,000, this watch is a significant investment—one that promises to deliver both long-term value and a sense of exclusivity. For those fortunate enough to acquire it, the Classique Tourbillon 3358 will not only hold its value but will likely increase in desirability as a future heirloom.
While the price is certainly a reflection of its craftsmanship, it also speaks to the larger statement this timepiece makes: a commitment to owning the finest in watchmaking and appreciating the deep historical legacy that accompanies it.
A Timeless Icon for the Discerning Collector
The Breguet Classique Tourbillon 3358, Reference 3358BB/8D/986 D0, is a true icon in the world of fine watchmaking. For those who appreciate the artistry of mechanical timepieces and understand the significance of owning a piece of horological history, the Classique Tourbillon 3358 is not just a watch—it is a legacy.
In a world where mass production and fast fashion dominate, the Breguet Classique Tourbillon 3358 stands as a symbol of enduring luxury, unparalleled craftsmanship, and the eternal pursuit of perfection. For the discerning few who recognise the value of this remarkable timepiece, it offers not only a connection to the past but also a statement for the future.
This exceptional timepiece encapsulates everything that makes Breguet one of the most respected names in watchmaking, offering its owner not just a watch, but a piece of horological art that will endure for generations to come.
Written by: Aleksandra Rutkowska
Published: Thursday, 16th January 2025