Breguet Revives the Tradition Seconde Rétrograde 7037 with Modern Flair

Breguet, a brand synonymous with horological excellence, has once again captivated watch enthusiasts with the reintroduction of a cherished model. Following its 250th anniversary celebrations, the company's new leadership has unveiled the latest additions to its esteemed Tradition collection. Among these, the Tradition Seconde Rétrograde 7037 stands out, making a grand return in its iconic original dimensions, hinting at a fresh direction for Breguet's future.

Breguet Unveils Reimagined Tradition Seconde Rétrograde 7037 and New Collection

In a significant announcement on March 31, 2026, Breguet launched six new Tradition references, with particular attention drawn to the Tradition Seconde Rétrograde ref. 7037BB/YB/5V6. This model, first introduced in 2006 as the Tradition collection's inaugural self-winding timepiece, retains its elegant 38mm diameter and a 46.1mm lug-to-lug length, offering a familiar yet refreshed presence. Unlike its predecessors, which often featured yellow gold cases and movements, the new 7037BB/YB/5V6 boasts an exquisite white gold and blue aesthetic. The dial, crafted from white Grand Feu enamel, showcases Breguet Arabic numerals in a captivating blue, perfectly complemented by blued steel open-tipped hands.

Powering this horological marvel is Breguet's sophisticated Caliber 505 SR. This self-winding movement, composed of 245 meticulously assembled components, features a silicon Breguet balance spring and a striking blue ALD (atomic layer deposition) coating on its bridges and mainplate. A 950 platinum oscillating weight, weighing 2.3 grams, is engraved with the Breguet wordmark, visible through the sapphire case back. The movement's architecture, especially the visible snailed pattern on the barrel cover, adds an extra layer of depth and visual appeal. A notable distinction from earlier models like the 7027 is the integration of a retrograde seconds hand at 11 o'clock, replacing the power reserve indicator, a practical adjustment for a self-winding mechanism. The iconic “pare-chute” shock absorber, a Breguet innovation from 1790, is prominently highlighted by the blue and rhodium color scheme.

Accompanying the white gold case is a blue rubber strap, featuring a subtle nylon-like texture and light gray stitching. While a departure from traditional leather, this strap introduces a blend of durability and sportiness, making the timepiece more versatile. A significant enhancement for user convenience is the inclusion of quick-release pins for both the strap and the 18K white gold pin buckle, simplifying strap changes without the need for tools.

The collection also expands with other distinguished references: a platinum GMT ref. 7067PT/NM/5W6 (and a variant with Eastern Arabic numerals) in a 40mm case, a 37mm Tradition Seconde Rétrograde ref. 7038BB/N9/V6D0 adorned with 58 brilliant-cut diamonds, and a Tradition Seconde Rétrograde 7097BR/GB/3WU in a 40mm rose gold case. Pricing for the 7037BB/YB/5V6 starts at CHF 45,200 (excluding VAT), with the platinum GMT models at CHF 62,800, the diamond-set 7038 at CHF 50,600, and the rose gold 7097 at CHF 43,200.

The refreshed Breguet Tradition Seconde Rétrograde 7037 is a testament to the brand's ability to honor its rich heritage while embracing modern design sensibilities. The white gold model, with its captivating blue movement and crisp white enamel dial, is particularly striking. Its refined details, such as the snailed barrel cover and the innovative blue ALD-treated components, underscore Breguet's commitment to both aesthetic beauty and technical precision. This release not only pays homage to a beloved classic but also sets a promising tone for the brand's future under its new leadership.