Although this is a story about the new moon phase Breguet Classique model for ladies, reference 9088, fair warning that the story digresses wildly at points. Swiss watchmaker Breguet sits atop of the Swatch Group pantheon of brands and typically has exciting news for us when we visit at BaselWorld. The firm that carries the legacy of Abraham-Louis Breguet into the current century does not disappoint, which leads to us wandering into chaotic discussions about whether the escapement is entirely in silicon or not (check back for more on that, if silicon floats your boat). There is plenty of news to report but I will begin, properly this time, with a look at the new Classique model for ladies, with moon phase indicator. The Classique line is receiving a lot of attention this year, with some major refinements to how some models look, work and even feel on the wrist. For example, this model previously existed as reference 9087, with roman numerals and guilloche dial. Anyway, the Classique Phase de Lune Dame 9088 illustrates perfectly that watchmakers feel the moon phase indicator is imbued with feminine mystique – men’s watches almost never feature this complication by itself. That is not to say the moon phase indicator at 6 o’clock looks lonely in this 30m watch. It is framed by white enameled dial, which is turn framed by brilliant-cut diamonds on the bezel and lugs. The watch is also available without diamonds, in rose and white gold, with a mother-of-pearl dial. The movement remains the self-winding calibre 537L, previously found in reference 9087, now with escapement entirely in silicon (including the hairspring).

Specs

• Dimensions: 30mm
• Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, moon phase indicator
• Power Reserve: 45 hours
• Movement: 537L, automatic
• Water Resistance: 30 meters
• Material: White gold or rose gold, with and without diamonds
• Strap: Leather