Some timepieces are designed to mark the seconds in a boardroom; others are built to change the course of history. Founded in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, in 1826, Gallet has always belonged to the latter category. Now, exactly two centuries after its founding, the historic Swiss watchmaker is back.
Acquired by Breitling in 2025, Gallet is preparing for a full, highly anticipated relaunch on September 3, 2026. Backed by Breitling’s immense watchmaking competence, craftsmanship, and global distribution network, Gallet is stepping into a new chapter as the luxury entry-level sibling brand within Breitling's House of Brands.
A Legacy Built on Exploration
From the very beginning, Gallet was shaped by the uncompromising demands of flight, racing, sailing, and exploration. When conditions were uncharted, Gallet was the instrument of choice for those pushing the boundaries of human achievement.
The brand's historical footprint is staggering:
In 1903, the Wright brothers timed their historic 59-second first flight at Kitty Hawk using a Gallet stopwatch known as "The Sun".
In 1938, the brand introduced the MultiChron Clamshell, one of the earliest waterproof chronographs built to withstand extreme environments.
President Truman famously relied on Gallet’s Flying Officer chronograph, a timepiece designed to help pilots track local time across global time zones.
In 1940, racing legend Rex Mays was awarded a Gallet MultiChron Regulator after winning the Springfield Mile.
"Some watches are made to stay in one spot. Gallet was never one of them," notes Georges Kern, CEO of House of Brands (Universal Genève, Breitling, and Gallet). "In the past it followed pilots, racers, travelers, and explorers. Now, it returns, backed by Breitling's expertise and infrastructure.".
The Great Escape: Wanderlust Since 1826
To mark this monumental return, Gallet is unveiling a new creative identity centered around the concept of "The Great Escape—Wanderlust Since 1826". The brand defines wanderlust not just as a desire to travel, but as an instinct to break free from the ordinary and chase the unknown.
To bring this vision to life, Gallet is teaming up with a roster of modern adventurers, photographers, and filmmakers. Beginning July 22, the brand will release weekly field dispatches on their dedicated website. These gripping narratives will follow fine art photographer Donal Boyd tracking rescued elephants in Kenya, Benjamin Kellett paragliding across the Himalayas, Benjamin Hardman sailing through Antarctica, and Dhir Jakharia photographing wildlife in Nairobi.
For horology enthusiasts and modern wanderers alike, the wait is almost over. Beginning September 3, the new era of Gallet will officially be available to the world, featuring dedicated safari-inspired corners within Breitling boutiques globally.
