By the 1950s, aviation was soaring to new heights. Military pilots required instruments that were not just reliable but built for precision and rugged performance. For Breguet, a brand that had been shaping horology since 1775, the challenge was an opportunity. In 1954, Breguet introduced the Type XX, a chronograph designed specifically for the French Air Force and Navy. It became a watch synonymous with aviation, a tool that pilots trusted during critical missions.
The origins of the Type XX trace back to the French government’s request for a flyback chronograph—a function that allowed pilots to reset the chronograph without stopping it, ensuring split-second accuracy during flight maneuvers. Breguet’s response was the Type XX: a rugged yet refined tool watch with a black dial, highly legible Arabic numerals, and luminescent hands for visibility in low-light conditions. The rotating bezel allowed pilots to track elapsed time easily, while the robust case ensured durability under extreme conditions.
This was not just a watch; it was a mission-critical instrument. Military pilots relied on the Type XX to calculate flight paths, fuel reserves, and navigation timings. Its flyback function—a groundbreaking feature at the time—gave pilots a decisive edge in split-second situations, solidifying the watch’s role as an essential piece of cockpit equipment.
As aviation advanced, so did the Type XX. By the 1990s, Breguet reintroduced it as a civilian chronograph, blending vintage aesthetics with modern watchmaking excellence. Variations like the Type XXI and Type XXII expanded the collection, offering innovations such as high-frequency movements and updated materials while staying true to the original spirit.
Today, the Breguet Type XX is more than a pilot’s chronograph. It is a tribute to aviation history and a testament to Breguet’s legacy of innovation and precision. Whether worn in the skies or on the ground, it serves as a reminder of the brand’s pioneering spirit and the timeless connection between timekeeping and adventure.
The Type XX isn’t just for pilots—it’s for those who appreciate precision and performance. Where will your next journey take you? The skies are calling.
