Breitling Split-Second Chronograph: Rare Vintage Watches for Sale

In 1944, Breitling unveiled the Duograph, a masterpiece of horological complexity. This dual-pursuit chronograph watch quickly captured the hearts of professionals and watch aficionados alike. Due to its limited production in the early years, the Duograph has become a treasure among collectors, often fetching impressive prices at auctions, with values steadily climbing year after year.

According to Breitling’s historical records, the steel version of the Duograph ref. 764 was crafted in an exceptionally scarce quantity of approximately 20 pieces between October 1944 and August 1978. However, for the brief period spanning the early to mid-1940s, detailed records are sparse. It is believed that only a handful—or possibly even fewer—were produced during this time.

Consequently, the overall production of the Duograph ref. 764 remains extraordinarily limited, with early editions standing as some of the rarest timepieces in existence.

This particular specimen represents an exceedingly rare find: likely the sole Breitling Duograph dual-pursuit doctor’s watch (Doctor’s Rattrapante) known to exist today. Thanks to its ingenious dual-pursuit function, it enabled physicians to accurately measure patients’ pulse rates, breathing intervals, or any scenario requiring high-precision timing with remarkable ease.

Encased in a 38 mm housing, the watch boasts the celebrated Venus cal. 179 chronograph movement. This hand-wound mechanical marvel operates at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour, renowned for its impeccable accuracy and superior craftsmanship. The Venus movement was a cornerstone of excellence in its era, prized for its robustness and intricate functionality, supplying movements to many esteemed luxury watch brands.

In the late 2010s, Breitling paid homage to its legacy of tradition and innovation by reintroducing a reissue of the Duograph. While the contemporary rendition features thoughtful updates in size and movement technology, it faithfully preserves the classic dual-pursuit function and the iconic Venus movement, ensuring the spirit of the original lives on.