Thanks for posting this. I had a similar experience a few years ago, and it left me wanting to know more about the type XX. You've just rekindled my interest - let's see where this thread takes us!

 

yeah I see this watch from time to time and think its a beautiful piece but then it seems to rarely get much press so I forget about it. I'm in the market for a military inspired field watch and although this is not that I can see it fitting the bill. Especially the older black dialed versions. I use my dive bezel to time things constantly so I know i'll miss that feature on a field watch, I generally like a chronograph, also not on a field watch, and it seems that a lot of field watches are time only and I like a date.

I am just curious about the general opinion on this watch. I always learn something posting on here ha!

 

They look so good.

 

They look so good.
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Agreed and I feel like they are something a little different than the standard sports watch. I do prefer the black dial personally though.

 

Never owned one, never touched one, don't think I've even seen one...but I think they're spectacular. I'm looking forward to more insight.

 

I believe Lemania was acquired by Breguet, so "modified Lemania" and "in-house" may both be correct.

 

Yeah after watching some videos that seems to be the case. Some say Lemania some say in-house. I actually don't care personally I like the style in the end of the whole package.

 

I periodically have looked at these (have a few saved in my notepad on Chrono24). My hesitation with them is that they are not subtle watches. Many have high polish and they are thick. However, I think this watch is one of the best values on the secondary market and if I wanted another chronograph to go with my Speedy, this would be it.

 

They can be dressed down a bit if paired with a brown leather strap, rather than the bracelet. Most versions are indeed highly polished, but only the bezel will be shiny, as the coin-edged case breaks up the light. There are titanium versions too that won't be as bling-y. These are incredible value, IMO. Nice history, solid movement. I have the smaller Type XX at 39mm, and it wears great. The larger XXI might sit even better on the wrist if you can pull it off, as the large size somewhat compensates for the thickness.

 

Two thoughts-
1- It looks fantastic to me
2- It’s not a Rolex……

 

GS zaratsu polish vs Type XX polish. Both mirror-like qualities, but the Breguet looks "wet".

 

Breguet looks "wet".

Makes me wet too
?

 

Built in every way to Breguet standards, using a movement that many regard as "pedestrian" has kept the pre-owned costs down.

If you aren't the type to realize some Rolls-Royce and Bentleys use a Chevy truck transmission, it's a great watch. If you are, and see the benefits to it, it's even better.

 

nope that doesn't bother me one little bit. I actually like that it would be easier to service in theory when the time comes.

aa to everyone who pointed out the bling factor I'm actually ok with that. The vast majority of my collection is what I would consider average to subtle. One of the attractions is that it's a departure from all the other watches I buy.

 

I had considered the Type XX Aeronavale 3800 with the smaller 39mm size and the warmth of the tritium lume. Attractive pre-owned price point for the brand, a model with significant history as well as a flyback movement. The lack of a column wheel movement whilst wasn't a show stopper, it was a downer considering the pedigree of the brand. However, like others have found, the bezel was too shiny and the bracelet looked like it was designed for a customer that wanted a bling watch. Also, the watch just looks so different to the original. Being a vintage watch enthusiast, I would prefer if they did what Breitling did with the 765 AVI re-edition.

 

I like the older models better

 

I've tried on several variants of the Type XX and Type XXI the past few years and prefer the design of the older Type XX models in general, but the top pick for me might actually be the Type XXI 3817 with the slate grey dial.

 

I believe @Terry M. had/has a Type XXI. Maybe he can offer some insight.

Regarding the fear of not getting mileage out of the dress watch, you should consider joining the Dress Watch Desperados and wearing that baby with your daily wear. No reason in the world to self-limit. My Breguet 7147 is my go-to, jeans or suit.

 

I have been on the fence about Type XX. I would buy it preowned for under 4K not a penny more. I admire Breguet and what it makes but this watch is not Breguet aesthetically . I know Breguet used to make something similar for some military, but that historic reference is not very compelling to me. The watch itself is too shiny and too thick and too big. I would consider a no date XX version in 39mm size. However something about this watch looks stops me from pulling the trigger. It is just not that interesting and there are other brands including Germans that make almost identical looking models. In the end if I ever own one it would be because it was too cheap to pas up and the only strong argument for buying one is the ''Breguet'' logo on the dial. Otherwise, I think the watch is not that special.

PS. Juts don't buy some Doxa, Steinheart or CW instead. Save the planet from that landfill.

 

I think the Breguet case design is interesting enough to differentiate it from those German models you are referring to. If you are looking for a bold pilot style chronograph then this one is hard to beat. However, I do agree with you somewhat on pricing. I would love to grab a titanium type xxi, but not for much over $6-7k.

 

I have a Type XX and it is fantastic. Pure class. However it is currently getting serviced and the prices are very high so while you may be able to get a pre owned one for $5k or less, running costs will be higher than a typical $5k watch.

I had the Type XXI as well but prefer the type XX as no date and a cleaner look.