History: Purchased by jean Dollfus in 1934 as a gift for his brother Louis. Returned for overhaul in 1935 and again in 1958, by Louis Dollfus on both occasions. Note: This watch is certainly unique m Breguet's work being the earliest and the only example of its type that they made. Research in the records proves that there were no others produced. It may well also be the earliest purpose-built wristwatch with perpetual calendar ever made by any firm, as although a fine example by Patek Philippe dating from 1925 is preserved in their Museum, it was built using an existing miniature pendant watch movement. (See Patek Philippe wristwatches, page 213). Significantly, Dollfus paid 11,000 Francs to Breguet for the watch, a fabulous price, particularly when compared with another complicated wristwatch, also sold in 1934, in platinum, with self winding and up-anddown, which already cost 6500 Francs. The instantaneous system, using a single complex lever to advance all the calendar functions at the same moment, requires an exceptionally high standard of workmanship if it is to function correctly. In a pocket watch, the relatively large spring is able to provide a sufficient reserve of power to overcome the inherent friction created by the various discs needing to be advanced; however, far less force is available in a wristwatch, particularly a small and slim example such as this, and all the parts must therefore be crafted and finished to the highest standards. The form of the case and layout of the dial are classic examples of the Art Deco style and it is interesting to note how the Breguet numerals, created 150 years before, perfectly complement the overall design.