Watchmaker Breitling has acquired the iconic Gallet, a Swiss watch brand originally founded in 1826, marking its second major acquisition after Universal Genève in 2023. The move signals Breitling’s continued expansion in the luxury watch industry, bringing back a brand renowned for precision timekeeping in long-distance travel and adventure.
“This acquisition is a natural next step in Breitling’s expansion,” said Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling. “We are reviving Gallet under the umbrella of Breitling’s expertise and craftsmanship. Our vision is long-term—reviving Gallet as a strong brand in watchmaking while honoring its legacy of adventure and innovation in chronographs.”
Founded by Julien Gallett in 1826 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Gallet became known for crafting durable timepieces designed for exploration. By 1856, the brand had entered the U.S. market and later became a dominant name in North America, distributed by Jules Racine & Co. Gallet cemented its place in history when its stopwatch was used to time the first powered flight in 1903 by Wilbur and Orville Wright. The Kitty Hawk Flyer covered 852 feet in 59 seconds, and the timepiece, marketed as “The Sun,” became an aviation milestone.
In 1907, Gallet acquired Société d’Horlogerie Electa, establishing as Fabrique d’Horlogerie Electa, leading to a era of innovation and patents that strengthened its reputation in precision watchmaking. However, the brand faced challenges during the quartz crisis of the 1970s and 1980s, causing it to fade from the market. Now, under Breitling, Gallet is preparing for a long-awaited resurgence.
Mr Kern added, “We continue to have strong confidence in Breitling, which is well-positioned to expand its market share in the luxury watch sector. Acquiring Gallet is the second key move that underscores the long-term strategy we’ve been building.” Mr. Kern is also the Co-Founder of Partners Group which has a stake in Breitling.
Gallet’s watches played a key role in aviation, motorsport, and timekeeping history. The 1939 Flying Officer chronograph was one of the first waterproof multi-timezone tracking watches, essential for intercontinental pilots. President Harry S. Truman was among its admirers, having received a Flying Officer as a gift inscribed “Col. Truman From Vic Poul.” He called it “the most elaborate wristwatch I ever saw,” making it one of the most collectible Gallet pieces today.
The 1938 MultiChron Clamshell was another groundbreaking release, one of the first waterproof chronographs, built to endure extreme weather conditions. The MultiChron Regulator, a later addition to the series, became a legendary motorsport watch when Rex Mays received it after winning the Springfield Mile auto championship in 1940, reinforcing Gallet’s reputation for performance-driven craftsmanship.
With Breitling leading its revival, Gallet will return in 2026, combining its historical expertise with modern watchmaking. The acquisition reflects Breitling’s dedication to Swiss horology, ensuring Gallet’s spirit of adventure and innovation lives on in a new era of luxury timepieces.
