Breitling Premier Chronograph Ref. 787 – A Gilt-Dial Classic from the 1940s
An exceptionally rare and remarkably preserved example of mid-century chronograph mastery, this Breitling Premier Ref. 787 from the 1940s encapsulates the understated elegance and tool-watch precision that define early Breitling chronographs. A true relic of horological heritage, this timepiece features a coveted black gilt dial, an untouched steel case, and the legendary Venus 152 chronograph movement—all preserved in their original form.
A Dial of Depth and Character
At the heart of this Premier lies an original black gilt dial featuring bold Arabic numerals and matching radium-filled syringe hands—all in pristine condition. The radium has gracefully aged with a light, attractive patina, enhancing the vintage charm while preserving its legibility. A minor scratch under the 30-minute sub-dial is the only whisper of time on an otherwise stunning dial.
Complementing the warm golden printing is the original plexiglass crystal, domed and delightfully preserved, offering a clear window into a wartime-era masterpiece.
Unpolished Steel – Razor Sharp Elegance
The 35mm stainless steel case remains entirely unpolished, showcasing razor-sharp lug edges and factory-defined lines rarely found on a watch of this age. The untouched surfaces bring out the rugged beauty and historical integrity of this chronograph, offering an authentic connection to the 1940s. The unsigned original Breitling crown—a rarity in itself—remains fitted, underscoring the watch’s untouched originality.
Legendary Movement – Venus 152
Inside ticks the celebrated Venus Calibre 152, a manual-wind chronograph movement revered for its robustness and mechanical elegance. Recently serviced by a master watchmaker, this calibre runs flawlessly across all registers and pushers, and is offered with a 12-month mechanical guarantee for peace of mind.
This triple-register chronograph configuration is a marvel of functionality and symmetry, and it remains as crisp in operation today as it did nearly 80 years ago.
Key Details:
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Reference: 787
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Movement: Venus Cal. 152, Manual-Wind, Triple Register Chronograph
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Case Size: 35mm
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Case Material: Stainless Steel, Unpolished
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Dial: Original Black Gilt Dial with Arabic Numerals
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Hands: Original Breitling Syringe Hands with Radium – Pristine
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Crystal: Original Plexiglass
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Crown: Original Unsigned Breitling Crown
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Condition: Excellent vintage condition, untouched case, pristine dial & hands
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Service: Fully serviced with 12-month mechanical guarantee
Why This Watch?
The Breitling Premier Chronograph Ref. 787 stands as a time capsule of the 1940s—an era of tool watches designed with both elegance and function in mind. The unpolished case, matched with its deeply glossy gilt dial and original components, make this a collector-grade example of a rare and early Breitling chronograph. For the discerning enthusiast or seasoned collector, this watch offers a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of Breitling’s earliest design legacy in remarkably preserved condition.
Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or to arrange a viewing—this is one of those rare vintage timepieces that speaks as much to the soul as it does to the wrist.
