Breitling Premier, Rose Gold, Ref. 777, Circa 1940s

Breitling has always had a strong visual identity that’s been centered around chronographs. In fact, perfecting the chronograph is what most aficionados would argue is Breitling’s true calling as a marque. However, while the most iconic Breitling chronos have long been the aviation-focused Navitimer references – with their busy, business-minded dial layouts – the watches the brand made in the 1940s had an elegance and unique style that packaged the functionality of a chrono in pieces with a more sophisticated feel.

This ref. 777 Premier model from the ‘40s is one such example of Breitling’s beautiful pre-MCM chronos. Featuring a rose gold case that has a delicate glow to it in-the-metal that differs tremendously from the pinkish reds of modern rose gold, the watch features two registers which enable the wearer to count minutes and hours. The overall package of this 777 has a rare balance of being simultaneously luxurious and understated.

This Breitling Premier is in excellent condition. The case is unpolished and untouched and its dial is in mint condition and the watch has a light, even, and extremely desirable patina throughout. The original radium lume remains present on both its dial and hands and has aged to a lovely orange-yellow color. This is a watch from the ‘40s that wears its years proudly, but shows no signs of abuse – perfect for the vintage watch enthusiast that prefers an example that flaunts its age rather than one that’s been hidden away in a sock drawer for decades.