Blancpain Villeret Automatic Ref. 0071-3342-55 – 1990s Ultra-Thin Dress Elegance in 18K Rosé Gold

We are delighted to present this exceptional Blancpain Villeret Automatic from the 1990s, reference 0071-3342-55. With its ultra-thin profile, refined Roman dial, and luxurious 18K rosé gold case, this timepiece embodies the purest expression of traditional Swiss dress watchmaking.

Historical Significance & Design

The Villeret line has long represented Blancpain’s dedication to classical watchmaking, stripping away complications and excess to focus on timeless elegance. This model, dating to the 1990s, carries forward the maison’s philosophy of purity and discretion, crafted during a period when Blancpain reasserted itself as a leader in mechanical horology after the quartz crisis.

Measuring 34mm in diameter with a case thickness of just 6mm, it offers an understated yet luxurious presence on the wrist. The perfect white dial, adorned with applied golden Roman numerals, exudes clarity and refinement. Its design is pared back to the essentials—only hour and minute hands—emphasizing harmony and restraint.

Condition & Features

Dial: Flawless white dial with applied golden Roman numeral hour markers. Minimalist layout with no seconds hand, a study in pure elegance.

Case: 18K rosé gold case measuring 34mm across and a mere 6mm in thickness. The back of the case is fitted with a sapphire display window, offering a clear view of the beautifully finished micro-rotor movement within.

Crown: Original Blancpain-signed crown, intact and fully functional.

Crystal: Sapphire glass in excellent condition, offering clear and scratch-free viewing.

Movement: Houses the renowned ultra-thin Blancpain Calibre 71 (Piguet 71 base), an automatic movement fitted with a 21k white gold off-center rotor. Highly regarded for its slim architecture and reliability, it remains a technical achievement in automatic micro-rotor design. Visible through the open case back, the movement’s fine finishing is a testament to Blancpain’s artisanal craftsmanship.

Strap & Buckle: Supplied on its original Blancpain leather strap (showing wear, as expected for its age) with original Blancpain yellow gold buckle.

Technical Details

• Reference: 0071-3342-55

• Caliber: Blancpain Cal. 71 (Piguet 71 base), ultra-thin automatic with 21k white gold off-center rotor

• Case: 18K rosé gold, 34mm diameter, 6mm thickness

• Case Back: Sapphire exhibition back, revealing the Cal. 71 micro-rotor movement

• Crystal: Sapphire, original

• Dial: White with applied golden Roman numerals

• Strap: Original Blancpain leather strap with original yellow gold buckle

Why Collect This Watch?

The Blancpain Villeret Ref. 0071-3342-55 is a paragon of understated refinement. Its ultra-thin proportions, minimalist dial, and luxurious rosé gold case make it an archetype of the modern dress watch. The addition of the open sapphire case back allows one to fully appreciate the technical mastery of the Cal. 71 micro-rotor movement—blending beauty with mechanical finesse.

Collectors seeking a true gentleman’s watch—discreet, elegant, and steeped in tradition—will find this model to be a cornerstone addition to any refined collection.