Tuesday, 8th April 2008 (717 views)

Watch designer Breguet has used 18ct gold in the design of a new pocket watch that faithfully replicates the "legendary" Marie Antoinette watch, according to reports.

The watch, named the Grande Complication, took three years to produce and required "intensive" historical study and technical development, ViaLuxe.com says.

It follows the design of Abraham Louis-Breguet, who created the original Marie Antoinette piece for the ill-fated queen of France.

The watch was the most advanced timepiece of the period, the site says, with workings made up of over 800 hand-finished pieces.

The Grande Compilation replicates these intricate mechanics, with functions including a minute repeater, equation of time, perpetual calendar, power reserve and a thermometer.

Its works are housed in a 46mm yellow gold casing and the watch comes in a presentation box with a marquetry recreation of a portrait of Marie Antoniette which uses over 1,000 pieces.

Austrian-born Marie Antoinette became queen of France in 1775 after marrying Louis XVI at the age of 14. After a life of excess and intrigue, she was sent to guillotine in 1793 during the French Revolution.

 

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