Every watchmaker knows: keep magnets away from mechanical movements. Breguet just broke that rule on purpose.
The Expérimentale 1 uses magnetism to regulate timekeeping. Not despite magnetism - because of it.
The Innovation#
Traditional escapements rely on friction and mechanical impulses to regulate the balance wheel. The Expérimentale 1 replaces part of this system with magnetic impulses.
Two escape wheels with magnetic tracks deliver controlled energy to the balance through magnetic interaction. The system generates a stable magnetic field that powers the oscillator without physical contact between certain components.
Result: reduced friction, reduced wear, theoretically improved long-term accuracy.
Oh, and the balance beats at 10Hz - double the frequency of most high-end mechanical movements. Higher frequency typically means better accuracy under motion.
The Technical Details#
The 43.5mm Marine case is made from Breguet’s proprietary gold alloy. The dial is sapphire in a regulator layout - hours, minutes, and seconds displayed separately with a panoramic view of the movement.
Many components are non-magnetic (silicon, titanium) to allow the magnetic system to function without interference. The magnetic impulse function is decoupled from the tourbillon cage rotation.
This is genuine R&D work, not marketing. Breguet filed multiple patents and spent years developing the concept.
The Price#
Not disclosed initially, but estimates place it north of €300,000. This is a collector piece, not a volume product.
Why It Matters#
Breguet founded the Expérimentale line for exactly this kind of innovation - ideas that push boundaries regardless of commercial viability.
The magnetic impulse concept may never reach mainstream production. But the research informs future developments. That’s how watchmaking advances.
Abraham-Louis Breguet himself was an innovator who challenged conventions. 250 years later, his namesake brand is still doing the same thing.
That’s the best anniversary celebration possible.