Skip to main content
Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

Who made the first wristwatch?

1 Answer
Who made the first wristwatch?
Abraham-Louis Breguet made the first wristwatch. Delivered in 1812, it was created for Caroline Murat, the queen of Naples and Napoleon Bonaparte’s sister. Breguet is commonly called the “father of modern horology.” The Swiss horologist is responsible for the creation of many clock and watch innovations that are still used in timepieces today, including the self-winding watch, the tourbillon movement, the perpetual calendar and a shock absorption system. Find a collection of Breguet watches on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
Shop for Breguet Watches on 1stDibs
Breguet La Marine 18k Gold Stainless Steel Date Automatic Women's Watch
By Breguet
Located in New York, NY
This Breguet La Marine is a refined and highly desirable women’s timepiece, combining the prestige of one of the most historic names in Swiss watchmaking with the versatility of an elegant sport-luxury design. Breguet watches are especially important in horology because the brand is associated with exceptional craftsmanship, technical innovation, and a level of heritage that places it among the most respected makers in the world. The La Marine model is particularly appealing for its blend of sophistication and wearability, with the 18k gold and stainless steel construction giving the watch both luxury and everyday practicality. Its 26mm case offers a classic feminine proportion, while the automatic movement and date function add the convenience and mechanical substance collectors appreciate. In great condition and keeping good time, this is a beautiful Breguet ladies...
Category

20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Stainless Steel

Breguet 18Kt. Yellow and White Gold Art Deco Watch with Articulated Lugs, 1930's
By Breguet
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Breguet STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Articulated Lugs METAL / MATERIAL: 18kt Two Tone Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1930's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 36mm x Diameter 25mm MOVE...
Category

Vintage 1930s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

White Gold

Breguet Type XX Transatlantique Flyback Platinum Blue Dial 3820
By Breguet
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A rare Breguet Type XX Transatlantique Flyback reference 3820 in platinum, featuring a striking blue dial with Arabic numerals. The 39mm platinum coin edge case is fitted with a bi-...
Category

Early 2000s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Platinum

Breguet Classique 3210 30.5mm Silver Roman Dial Manual Winding 18k White Gold
By Breguet
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 3210 Serial: 40** Year: ~1990-1999 Model: Breguet Classique Case Material: 18k White Gold Band: Custom Black Leather Strap & Steel Buckle B...
Category

1990s Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, White Gold

Breguet Hora Mundi "Europe" 5717BR, 44mm Case, 18K Rose Gold, World Time, Yr2012
By Breguet
Located in Canterbury, England
An exceptional watch, our Breguet Hora Mundi "Europe" reference 5717BR features a 44mm 18k rose gold case with world time complication, which allows...
Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Breguet Marine 5817BA Automatic 18K Yellow Gold Watch
By Breguet
Located in New York, NY
A men's watch created by Breguet 5817BA/12/9V8 for the Marine collection, featuring an 18K yellow gold bezel enclosing a 39 mm round case with a silver guilloche dial and Roman numer...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Shop All