The Swiss watchmaking landscape is set for a significant revival as Gallet, a brand founded in 1826, announces its official return. Following its acquisition by Breitling in 2025, the historic manufacturer is preparing for a full brand relaunch scheduled for September 3, 2026.
Positioned within Breitling’s “House of Brands” as a luxury entry-level sibling, Gallet aims to leverage Breitling’s extensive technical expertise, manufacturing infrastructure, and global distribution network. Starting in September, Breitling boutiques worldwide will introduce dedicated “safari-inspired” corners to showcase the new Gallet universe.
A Heritage of Exploration
Gallet’s history is deeply intertwined with human exploration and precision timing. Throughout the 20th century, the brand established itself as a reliable companion for professionals in demanding fields:
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Aviation: Gallet stopwatches were used to time the historic first flight of the Wright brothers in 1903, and the brand later introduced the iconic Flying Officer chronograph in 1939 to assist pilots with multi-time zone tracking.
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Engineering: In 1938, the brand launched the MultiChron Clamshell, recognized as one of the first waterproof chronographs built to withstand harsh environments.
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Motorsport: The brand’s reputation for precision extended to the racetrack, with the MultiChron Regulator becoming a trusted tool for competitive drivers.
“Some watches are made to stay in one spot. Gallet was never one of them,” said Georges Kern, CEO of House of Brands. “In the past it followed pilots, racers, travelers, and explorers. Now, it returns, backed by Breitling’s expertise and infrastructure”.
The New Era: “The Great Escape”
Ahead of the September launch, the brand has debuted a new creative identity under the theme: “The Great Escape—Wanderlust Since 1826”. The company has launched a dedicated website to document this new chapter, featuring a brand film and a series of “weekly dispatches” from a team of modern-day adventurers.
Beginning July 22, 2026, these contributors—including conservationists, photographers, and explorers like Donal Boyd and Benjamin Hardman—will share stories from the field, highlighting the spirit of adventure that remains central to the brand’s identity.
