Maserati-SALE-$300
Brand new with Maserati gift box-Maserati Maserati Sfida Diamond Open Heart Dial Automatic R8823140007 100M Men’s Watch.
Maserati-SALE-$300
Brand new with Maserati gift box-Maserati gold Traguardo model R8873612010, Chronograph, analog quartz.
Maserati-SALE-300
Brand new with Maserati gift box-Brand new with Maserati gift box-Maserati model R8853142004. Analog quartz with screw down crown, water-resistant with date display and luminous hands and markers.
Case 42mm
We carry leather, nylon, rubber, mesh and metal bands of all kinds including unused new old stock vintage. Call for availability.Repair Services offered by Drew Jewellers:Metal restorationCrystal Replacement (Most brands) We carry most sizes of round crystals in sapphire, glass and acrylic.Battery ReplacementBuffing & PolishingCleaningBand Replacement/RepairBand Adjustments/SizingDial Cleaning
METAL WATCH BAND EXTENSIONSWatch band extensions come in a variety of styles to extend bands that are too small. Often links are removed and lost when watches are sold or handed down, creating a frustrating situation for the new owner. We have the solution and carry most sizes and styles in stock. See more in #watchparts section.
Water Resistance
What is ATM water resistance?
ATM is a standard commonly used to measure the water resistance of watches, including smartwatches, fitness trackers and traditional watches.An abbreviated version of the word ‘atmosphere’, ATM describes the amount of pressure a device can withstand when placed underwater.Like the IP ratings assigned to measure the protection afforded to devices like smartphones and speakers, ATM ratings use numbers to convey water resistance. Common ratings include 1 ATM, 3 ATM and 5 ATM, with higher numbers used to represent devices that are capable of withstanding greater amounts of pressure.One atmosphere of pressure (1 ATM) is equal to 10m (33ft) in depth, while 3 ATM equals 30m (98 ft) in depth. 5 ATM, meanwhile, represents an ability to withstand 50m (164ft) of pressure.If you’re looking for a watch that can be taken swimming or snorkelling, you’ll want to look out for a rating of 10 ATM or 20 ATM, with 10 ATM equalling 100m (328ft) of depth and 20 ATM signalling 200m (656ft) of depth.The official criteria and test conditions for each ATM standard are determined by the International Organisation for Standardisation in ISO 22810.
Watch Parts
A screw down crown creates a seal when the crown locks with the cases internal threads and gaskets, fastening it into place securely. Adjusting the date and/or time on a watch with a screw-down crown is still simple, simply unscrew the crown counter clockwise until it springs open then gently pull it out to the first or second click position. When you have finished setting the watch, the crown must then be pushed and screwed back in tightly. This step is very important as it ensures the water-resistance of the watch, not doing so may result in flooding. Overall, this process should not require a lot of effort or force.
Plastic / Acrylic: These used to be the norm. The plastic material is relatively soft, so as you would expect, is the least expensive. Because it is quite soft and flexible, it is also the least likely to shatter and the most likely to become scratched. One advantage is that, if it does get scratched and you have a polishing machine, then smaller scratches can often be buffed or polished away.
Mineral Glass: These are common on most mid-range watches. They are a little more expensive than plastic or acrylic crystals but are significantly more scratch resistant. They are made of glass. Almost all Mineral Glass Watch Crystals nowadays are “Tempered” Mineral Glass. This just means that the surface of the glass is “heat-tempered” (heated to a high temperature), giving the surface of the glass increased scratch resistance and making it less likely to “splinter”. If a mineral crystal is scratched or chipped, then it cannot be polished and “repaired”, it needs to be replaced.
Sapphire Crystal | Sapphire Crystal vs Mineral Crystal
Synthetic Sapphire: A synthetic sapphire crystal or “glass” is actually not glass at all. It is a very hard, transparent material made of crystallizing pure aluminium oxide at very high temperatures. Synthetic sapphire has the same hardness as natural sapphire gemstones, but without the coloring agents that give the gems their various hues. When it is heated, the synthetic sapphire forms round masses, that are then sliced into pieces with diamond-coated saws. These disks are then ground and polished into watch crystals. (One reason sapphire crystals are relatively expensive is that the tools required to cut and polish this extremely hard material are very costly.) Sapphire (whether natural or synthetic) is one of the hardest substances on earth. It measures 9 on the Mohs scale, which is a system for rating the relative hardness of various materials. (Diamond measures 10, the highest rating.) Watch crystals made of synthetic sapphire are often marketed as “scratch resistant” or “virtually scratchproof” because they are very difficult - but not impossible - to scratch. Diamond can scratch them; so can man-made materials that incorporate silicon carbide, which, with a MOHS rating of between 9 and 10, is harder than sapphire. So, if you accidentally scratch your watch on a simulated-stone surface or a wall that incorporates some of these silicon carbide materials, it could scratch the crystal.
Single Domed vs Double Domed Crystals-Single Domed crystals are flat on the bottom and domed at the top. Double domed crystals are domed on both the inside and outside. Single domed crystals will cause distortion of the dial, perhaps magnification. Double domed crystals cause no distortion from any angle.
Low Domed vs High Domed Crystals-Low domed and high domed crystals are both double domed and have no distortion. There are 2 reasons to consider them;
1. Making sure there is enough room for the hands.
2. Style
Mechanical Watches-Automatic Movement:
Automatic movements are favorites of watch connoisseurs the world over. To buy an automatic watch is to celebrate the heritage and craft of fine watchmaking.An automatic movement refers to a self-winding mechanical watch, where the action of the wearer's wrist generates the energy to power the watch. The watch's mainspring, or the primary power source, is wound by a rotor that spins when the watch is worn, making a battery unnecessary.The Swiss invented automatic movements in the 1770s, so many people associate automatic watches with being Swiss, though other countries also produce automatic movements. Japanese automatic movements have gained popularity in recent years, thanks to their balance of precision and cost-effectiveness.Automatic movements are intricate pieces of machinery and quite labor-intensive to produce. This makes automatic watches quite a bit more expensive than quartz watches, but watch lovers appreciate the work involved in making them and show their automatic watches off with pride.
Mechanical Watches-Manual Movement (Wind up)Manual watches, like Automatic watches, do not need batteries to stay powered. However, unlike an Automatic watch powered by movement, a Manual watch needs to be wound... manually.Besides this difference, Manual watches work identically to Automatic watches.Like Automatic watches, the energy stored in the power reserve can keep the watch ticking for some time before it requires winding again. A full power reserve might hold 24-48 hours of energy, depending on the watch.
Quartz Watches
Battery powered: Unlike Mechanical watches, Quartz timepieces use a battery to power movement.
Most common watch type: These days, Quartz watches are one of the most common.
Quartz crystal: Quartz crystal keeps time based on its vibration.
How They Work
Mechanical watches use intricate movements to store energy in a mainspring and use that energy for power.A Quartz watch uses batteries and a quartz crystal to source its energy.The first thing to know is that quartz has an interesting property: When an electrical current is applied to quartz, it vibrates at a constant rate of 32,768 times per second. This is where a Quartz watch gets its reliability.A circuit within a Quartz watch applies constant electrical currents to a quartz crystal. The oscillations of the quartz are timed, and an electric pulse is created each time the quartz reaches its 32,768th oscillation – one second.This electric pulse is what powers the movements of Quartz timepieces (like the Nixon 51-30 Chrono).How to Use Them
Watches with quartz are easy to use because they are battery powered. Simply make sure your battery is charged, your time correct and you’re good to go!
Bands & Straps:
Watch Bands consist of bracelets and straps. Bracelets can be either removeable links joined together, solid or mesh. Straps are leather, cloth or rubber and have a buckle.
On link bands, the links can be removed or added for perfect sizing . The bracelet clasp, seen here, also has adjustment holes which can be easily adjusted by moving the spring bar to another position.
Bracelet Extenders:
Some watch lugs are case specific, meaning a replacement band cannot be used. Also finding links can be costly or even impossible. If you have a watch that is too small, and you cannot find matching links or replace the band, you can simply extend the bracelet with a bracelet extender. We carry these in stock.
Watch Stories
The world of watches is fascinating, from the beginning of their thought creation and develepment to the massive industries that followed. Besides the watch being high technology for science and innovation, watches became jewelry with the invention of the wristwatch, pendants and rings. Watches are given as gifts to loved ones, to record milestones; anniversaries, graduations, birthdays, retirements. Wearing a fascinating, ticking, series of motors, gears, jewels and metals on your body is indeed the ultimate jewelry. One tiny 12mm x 12mm watch case can have 23 rubies, diamonds and sapphires inside it, which help the busy micro parts last longer. Timex, however has an all metal movement that almost never stops working, even after 70 years. Long before diamonds and gold plating, watches were used for timing trains and later planes, to make sure there were no accidents, making watches the first train traffic control & air traffic control systems in the world."Better three hours too soon than a minute too late-William Shakespeare"
The Carl Dacksel Lager Cellars Gold Gruen Story
I buy auction lots and personal lots from all over the world, many coming from the USA. I was restoring an old Gruen Swiss watch and noticed an engraving on the back that says "To Carl Dacksel, from the Lager Cellars 1955". Normally I grind off engravings and carry on with the restoration. Most times, families throw these items away because they don't work or they just don't want them so I don't feel bad about it and am happy to restore for new owners who will appreciate them. However, all 3 times that I prepped my tool to grind off his name, I couldn't do it. I decided to research him instead. He got this watch as a retirement gift from what was then "Lager Cellars" and died the next year. In 1955, this watch would have been very expensive so I'm assuming he was a good brewer and employee. His occupation is also noted on his death certificate. I contacted Anheuser Busch and to see if they are interested but they are not, despite having a museum with items as new as 1980 that they deem "historical". Perhaps they don't want their current employees to know that the company once rewarded employees with fine American 10k gold watches with 21 jewel movements that were sourced in the alps of Switzerland.He marriedLillian DackselBirth- 1 Jun 1894Death-24 Jan 1981 (aged 86) and had at least one child:Lester DackselBirth-10 Mar 1923Death-19 Jan 1994 (aged 70)Carl, Lillian and Lester are buried at Sunset Memorial Park and Mausoleum10180 Gravois Road Affton, Missouri 63123 United States
Watch Brand History A-Z
Accutron- "In 1960, Bulova produced the epoch-making watch "Accutron", the world's first tuning fork electronic watch.In 2020, 60 years after that, we launched the new Accutron, Accutron Space View 2020 and Accutron DNA, equipped with a new innovation called electrostatic induction.Accutron, a new brand with a passion for innovative invention and breakthrough technology, makes a spectacular debut. In 1960, when mechanical watches were the mainstream, the precision of ±1 minute per month was truly shocking. It can be said that the fact that the timing device was adopted for the Apollo program of .In addition, the unique design that exposes the interior has been highly evaluated. The watch with a full-skeleton dial, which is impressive with the green used to protect the board and the copper of the tuning fork coil, was named "Space View" and was loved by people as a design that symbolizes Accutron."
A. Lange & Söhne- "Lange was born into a family of skilled artisans, and he apprenticed under some of the most renowned watchmakers of the time for a decade. After completing his training, Lange set out to build his own watchmaking empire in Saxony. So, in 1845, A. Lange and Cie was launched. He recruited the best watchmakers in the region and invested heavily in the latest technology and machinery. Under Lange’s leadership, A. Lange and Cie quickly became one of the most respected watch brands in the world. In 1846, Lange invented the three-quarter plate design that continues to form the basis of the brand’s movements today. He also introduced the millimeter to watchmaking and became the mayor of Glashutte in 1848. His impact was widespread and evident.The company’s timepieces were known for their precision and beauty, and they were favored by royalty and dignitaries around the globe, including the King of Bavaria. In 1868, his son Richard joined the business and in 1871, his other son Emil did, too. The company’s name was changed to A. Lange and Sohne, or A. Lange and Sons. The sons combined their artistic and marketing skills to help the company scale new heights"
Akrivia-"We are AKRIVIA, a young watchmaking atelier based in Geneva, founded in 2012 by Rexhep Rexhepi. From small beginnings and creating new movements out of his apartment, Rexhep grew the company year by year into an internationally recognised brand with timepieces appreciated and owned by the world’s most discerning collectors.There is more than one side to every person, so at AKRIVIA, we have more than one collection. Our main collection projects our youthful spirit, with strong case designs and ambitious complicated movements.Our founder’s collection, signed Rexhep Rexhepi, reflects our commitment to traditional technique and our love of neo-classical elegance.Our atelier is situated in the old town of Geneva, where we are continually inspired by the history of the world’s most famous watchmaking city. More than anything, we believe in creating optimally beautiful and innovative expressions of traditional watchmaking. You can see this belief in every timepiece that leaves the AKRIVIA atelier, and we are proud to say that everyone who wears an AKRIVIA timepiece shares our values and vision of mechanical excellence."
Alexander Shorokhoff- "Alexander Shorokhov already had clear ideas when he founded a distribution company in Frankfurt am Main in 1992: mechanical movements, a fair price-performance ratio, an unusual design, guaranteed popularity as well as good sales figures. In 1993, he established the brand “Poljot” as a synonym for Russian watches on the Western market.In 1994, with a selected team of master watchmakers, he opened a small watch workshop, to which he brought his talent as a designer and launched his first own collection under the newly patented brand “Poljot-International”. It was at this time that the watch movements were for the first time decoratively finished and quality control was introduced. Alexander Shorokhov then developed a special quality system up to the final inspection, in which each master watchmaker is responsible for each watch he produces, which continues to this day."
Alpina- "More than any other watchmaker, Gottlieb Hauser was responsible for the concept of the sports watch as it is known today.The story of Alpina was originally brought to life when Swiss watch making visionary Gottlieb Hauser founded the “Alpina Swiss Watchmakers Corporation,” and in doing so united the leading Swiss independent watchmakers, who became known as the “Alpinists.”Initially, the Corporation was developed to optimize the manufacturing of movements and timepieces by forming a federating of cooperating manufacturers and suppliers, but Alpina soon started developing and producing in-house calibres and chronometers. In 1901, the trademark “Alpina” was registered and appeared for the first time on high-end calibres and watches produced by Gottlieb Hauser.The emergence of mass-produced, cheap and impersonal watches nearly led to Alpina’s demise, as the company refused to abandon its mechanical watch standards.However, despite the difficulties, Alpina remained an independent company and made its comeback in 2002, continuing the horological legacy of Gottlieb Hauser and ensuring his star continues to shine brightly well into the future."
Anonimo- "Founded in Florence in 1997, ANONIMO has made a name for itself in the uncompromising world of professional diving, particularly amongst the famous C.N.S. (Cooperativa Nazionale Sommozzatori). With its screw-in crown locking system and completely water- resistant pushbuttons, ANONIMO create diver’s watches waterproof to a depth of more than 1000 metres. The PROFESSIONALE was successfully tested at a depth of 2000 metres. Building on the strenght of its patented inventions, developped in close cooperation with experts and professionals, ANONIMO launched several other product lines, including the emblematic MILITARE, featuring the famous winding crown guard at 6 or 12 o’clock.."
Angelus- "Founded in 1891 in Switzerland, Angelus has been one of the most influential horological manufactures of the last century. Watchmaking connoisseurs universally hailed Angelus' pioneering, in-house developed movements and timepieces, which continue to be coveted by collectors all over the world. Today’s Angelus is fully equipped to design, produce, finish, assemble, regulate and test all its movements and timepieces in-house. The Angelus collection blends the very best of vintage high watchmaking with contemporary design and materials.Angelus was founded by the brothers Stolz with the establishment of a watchmaking Manufacture in Le Locle, Switzerland. Over the past century, Angelus forged a fine reputation for creating exceptional chronograph and multi-complication wristwatches, multi-display travel clocks with long power reserves, and alarm watches.The Brand marked several firsts along the way, including Chronodato (1942), first series wristwatch chronograph with calendar; Chrono-Datoluxe (1948), featuring the very first big date in a chronograph wristwatch, Datalarm (1956), first wristwatch ever featuring both alarm and date function or Tinkler (1958), cult timepiece, first automatic repeater and first fully waterproof repeater."
Armand Nicolet- "The story of Armand Nicolet begins around 1875 in Tramelan, a little town in the Bernese Jura. Armand Nicolet, son of a watchmaker, after a brilliant apprenticeship set up his "Atelier d'Horlogerie". In 1902 he affirmed his technical maturity by producing a pocket watch with “guilloché”rose gold case, enamel dial, single button chronographic function, complete calendar, repeating hours, quarter hours and minutes. During those years, Armand Nicolet also refined his technical skills by doing important studies on design that would influence his future work. His watches, masterpieces of pure beauty, quality and precision are still to be found in Nicolet SA’s museum and continue to arouse interest among international collectors. When he died in 1939, his son Willy assumed the reins of the family enterprise and developed it to be one of the most important production facilities in the region. In 1987 Willy Nicolet met by chance Mr. Rolando Braga, an Italian entrepreneur active in the watch field. The encounter proved to be strategic and was the beginning of the cooperation between the extraordinary Swiss technical skills and Italian creativity."
Armin Strom- "Mr. Armin Strom studied watchmaking and established his first shop in his native town of Burgdorf in 1967. In parallel with the normal activity of a watch shop, he also offered a prominent restoration service. Mr. Strom gradually developed an unparalleled skill set in the art of hand-skeletonization, long before it became fashionable among the mainstream brands.Eventually, he became an outsourced resource for those mainstream brands and he was ultimately called upon to skeletonize various limited editions of their watches. Mr. Armin Strom soon grew to become a legend in the art of hand-skeletonizing wristwatches. Mr. Strom’s desire to stretch his skills to their absolute limits ultimately earned him a Guinness Book World Record in 1990 for producing the world’s smallest hand-skeletonized watch
Armitron- "The story of Armitron is one of character and uncompromising spirit, and begins with a man and a promise. Against the unimaginable horrors of Auschwitz, a young Eugen Gluck made an oath: “I’m going to survive this. And I’m going to show you how human beings are supposed to treat each other.” And he did. He survived the Holocaust. Finding refuge in NYC, Mr. Gluck and his wife Jean (that’s right — Eugen and Jean — it was love at first sight!) set out to embody the American dream: First with a bakery, and then with a watch business. That business became “America’s Watch”, an industry leader that embraced technology and forward-thinking design to carve out a foothold in the American zeitgeist."
Arnold & Son- "With roots dating back to England in 1764, Arnold & Son pays tribute to English watchmaker John Arnold (1736-1799) who was instrumental in the development of ship’s chronometers to help solve the problem of longitude at sea. He created many “firsts” in watchmaking, and today, the brand that bears his name is dedicated to the same pioneering spirit, regularly unveiling highly complicated calibers that stir hearts around the world. At the luxury spectrum, its bestsellers include the Time Pyramid, Nebula, Globe Trotter, and a host of grand complications"
Ateliers de Monaco- "Ateliers deMonaco is a manufacture of luxury wristwatches based in Geneva. The brand was founded in 2008 by co-founders Pim Koeslag, Robert van Pappelendam and Pier Stas. Thanks to its faithfulness to the noblest criteria of haute horlogerie as well as a passion for mechanical innovations, Ateliers deMonaco won its place amongst the rare and recognized independent watch manufactures. Beyond the artistic vision of any new and original masterpiece, men and know-how are at the heart of the brand’s creations, each stamped with bienfacture and excellence. Daring innovation is a constant quest but it should never be separated from an outstanding watchmaking savoir-faire..
Audemars Piguet- "It all started towards the end of the 18th century in the Vallée de Joux, when farmers began dedicating their workday to horological craftsmanship during long winter months in the light-filled rooms at the top of their farmhouses. They transformed their agrarian dwellings into high quality ateliers for the production of watch parts such as wheels, bridges, springs, semi-precious stones, pinions and all manner of specialist part production and assembly. This tightly knit network of family artisanship that developed in the region gave birth to some of the most complicated mechanisms ever produced. Audemars Piguet’s watchmaking foundations were laid on this rare savoir-faire, which dates back to bygone days and has been handed down from generation to generation. Since 1875, these talented craftspeople have practiced their skills at the highest level, building on tradition while continuously pushing further the limits of their crafts to create timepieces imbued with the Manufacture’s savoir-faire and forward-thinking spirit.."
Auguste Reymond- "In 1898, Auguste Reymond established a watch company in the small town of Tramelan in the center of the Jura Mountain region of Switzerland. He also began to manufacture movement blanks, or ebauches, in 1906. Reymond later gave the name of these ebauches UNITAS, after the UNITAS Watch Company he acquired in 1926. In 1903 the company, which manufactured pocket watches, moved to larger premises and employed more than 100 people. The young visionary also set up a workshop in Les Bioux, in the Vallée de Joux. In so doing, the Tramelote brand could claim to be a manufacture, since it now produced its own movements..”.
Backes & Strauss- "Founded in 1789, by German immigrant businessmen Georg Carl Backes and (later on) Max Strauss, the company is the oldest diamond company in the world. By the early 19th century, Georg Carl Backes was a successful goldsmith in the city of Hanau, Germany. During this time, his company (originally named Backes & Co.) had done so well that he sent his 24-year-old son Johann Franz to London to open a new office. After Georg Carl's death in 1819, his son continued trading and manufacturing of diamonds and jewellery. Examples were shown at London's Great Exhibition in 1851 and two pages of its official catalogue were devoted to illustrations of J.F. Backes's jewellery. An Assyrian-style bracelet registered by J. F. Backes & Sons in 1872 can be found in the British Museum."
Ball Watch- "Ball Watch Company is a brand with a unique past. Founded in America in 1891 in Cleveland, Ohio, by jeweler and watchmaker Webb C. Ball, the company is credited with contributing to the safety of America’s railroad system thanks to its incredibly precise watches. The founder was even celebrated by the Horological Institute of America in 1921. Today, based out of La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Ball watch company creates watches that pay homage to the people who work hard to tame the big machines we need, some of whom are national heroes. Collections include the Railroad, Engineer, Fireman, Trainmaster, Conductor, and others."
Baume & Mercier- "At the beginning of the 1920s, the company director William Baume joined forces with Paul Mercier. Together, they founded Baume & Mercier, Genève, in 1918. The firm soon became one of the most active in the field of wristwatches by offering remarkably balanced special-shaped models.
In 1919, it was awarded the highest international distinction of the time in the shape of the “Poinçon de Genève” quality hallmark.
During the Roaring Twenties and throughout the Art Deco period, the brand established its style and left an indelible mark on watch design.
Paul Mercier knew that it was essential for the brand to live in step with its time and embrace change.
The firm grasped the importance of women’s emancipation and came to regard their desires as an unquenchable source of inspiration."
"In 2011, Christophe Hoppe established Bausele in Sydney, driven by his passion for Australia, aiming to embody the nation's spirit in a watch brand. The name Bausele, short for Beyond Australian Elements, captures the essence of Australia's unique landscapes and wildlife. By 2015, Bausele became the first Australian brand to showcase at Baselworld and later collaborated with the Sydney Opera House in 2016 for a special watch edition. The brand expanded rapidly, reaching markets in France, the US, and Japan, and selling online in over 40 countries. A notable milestone was in 2020 when Bausele created the official watch for the Royal Australian Air Force's 100th anniversary. Hoppe's expertise in Swiss technology and keen design sense are key to Bausele's success, offering high-quality, affordable watches."
Beiging Watch Factory- "The Beijing Watch Factory was officially established on 19 June 1958; however initially there were only 21 staff in training, located in the Beijing Industrial College, while factory facilities were under construction. By September that year, the first 17 watches had been completed. This first Beijing watch was the BS-1, a high quality 17 jewel copy of the Swiss Roamer MST 371. From 1958 to 1962 only 3,726 were made. Very few survive today.
Belair- "Belair watches have been assembled in U.S.A from Swiss watch parts at the family owned and operated watch factory in Lakewood, NJ and an assembly facility in US Virgin Islands since 1946 by the Grunewald family. Following in the 60 year old tradition and the philosophy of the brand developed by his father, Alan also believes in spending absolutely no money (a total 0) on advertising and leaving all the promotion for the brand to the retailers, thus significantly reducing the final cost of their watches to the consumer. That money is much better spent on new case or movement innovation and development. Belair is proud to be an American company"
Bell & Ross- "Perhaps most easily recognizable for its rich history in the world of aviation, Bell & Ross has been creating wrist instruments and working with pilots since the very start. The brand continues to work with nearly a dozen top-notch military organizations around the world and produces watches for extreme circumstances, including pilot’s watches, dive watches, and more. One of its most beloved collections features the easily identifiable BR square case (with cushioned corners) with an inner round dial.”
Benrus- Benrus was founded by three brothers, Romanian emigrants in the United States (Benjamin, Oscar, and Ralph). The brand's name is composed of the first and last letters of Benjamin Lazrus' first and last name.Back in the 1920s, following the First World War, wristwatches were making an appearance and gaining popularity over pocket watches. The Lazrus brothers saw this shift in the watch world as a chance to produce wristwatches powered by Swiss movements for the large public.They soon established the company's headquarters in the Hippodrome building on 44th street in Manhattan. The movements of the watches were assembled in Switzerland, where the brothers owned a factory in Choux de Fond. Switzerland was considered at that time the place where exclusive, premium-quality mechanical watch movements were produced.So, with movements produced in Switzerland and the case of the watch assembled in the States, Benrus started producing high-quality wristwatches that immediately appealed to the American public.
Bering- "The idea for the Bering watch brand was born in 2008 when Danish adventurer and businessman Rene Kaerskov jumped out of a helicopter into the Arctic, directly over the North Pole. As he landed safely at the world’s most northerly point, Kaerskov was inspired by the breathtaking beauty of the Arctic landscape. The simple beauty and infinite icy expanse inspired the vision of a new watch brand: timepieces as pure, clear and beautiful as the exquisite scenery he witnessed at the North Pole.
uniquely minimalistic way"..
Bianchet- "Bianchet is a young watch brand based in Neuchatel, Switzerland, founded by Rodolfo and Emmanuelle Festa Bianchet. With their passion for tonneau-shaped watches and their fascination for the work of the Italian mathematician Fibonacci and the Golden Ratio (1.618), the Festa Bianchet couple launched the Tourbillon 1.618 collection in 2017. Bianchet creates modern timepieces, applying the golden ratio to both the case design and the movement."
Blancpain- "A watch brand with a truly rich history and perhaps even richer contemporary profile, Blancpain has been involved in diving and aviation since the early 20th century and continues to create watches geared for lovers of adventure. It also builds some of the most sophisticated and complicated watches in the world – offering watch lovers a glimpse at its esteemed horological prowess. Nestled in the Vallee’ de Joux, Switzerland, this innovative brand, owned by the Swatch Group, is highly dedicated to sustainability and Ocean Commitment."
Bomberg- "Relatively young in the watch world, founded in just 2013, Bomberg is all about being disruptive and different. Its quality watches offer a pioneering spirit and bold designs that capture the eye. From racing watches to women’s watches, what Bomberg produces is attitude – and a lot of it. Most of its collections are created in limited runs and typically embrace excitement and daring."
Breguet- "Abraham-Louis Breguet leaves his home in Neuchâtel as a teenager, and heads for Versailles and Paris for a watchmaking apprenticeship. In 1775, he opens his workshop in the Ile de la Cité in Paris, with the help of Abbot Joseph-François Marie, who takes him under his wings and introduces young Breguet to the French Court. French aristocracy quickly become Breguet’s clientele. Forced to leave France during the dark hours of the Revolution, he returns in 1795 to rebuild his business. -https://www.breguet.com/en/timeline/1747-1800#Marie Antoinette-The complexity of the watch itself and its convoluted history remained in the collective conscience of horology and of collectors for nearly two centuries. Stolen in 1983 from a Jerusalem museum, the “Marie-Antoinette” watch bearing Breguet number 160 resurfaced in 2007 while at Baselworld 2008 Montres Breguet unveiled the new “Marie-Antoinette” number 1160, built on the basis of archival research and original drawings".
Breitling- "Based in Grenchen, Switzerland, the Breitling brand has produced stunning timepieces, such as the Breitling Navigator and the Breitling Aviator watch, for over 130 years. The Swiss watchmaker is responsible for creating some of the most precise time-keeping pieces ever made. Regarded as a major luxury watch brand, Breitling was founded in 1884 by Léon Breitling. The Breitling brand was dedicated to making chronographs which could be used for industrial, military and scientific applications. Breitling is a byword for watches produced using the finest materials, strict quality control and stringent testing.Breitling’s history charts a story of boundaries that were pushed and new standards set in crafting and creating precision chronographs. Breitling owner, Léon Breitling, began to make watches in his workshop in the Jura mountains and focused on making very intricate complex timepieces. Within ten years of the brand’s inception, Léon’s success took the company to bigger premises, transferring to a factory in 1892."
Brellum- "Inspired by the legacy of my great-grandfather Emile Muller, the first of 4 generations of watchmakers in my family, BRELLUM distributes its timepieces directly from our workshops to our customers around the world. By setting up his first workshop in 1910, at a time when today's distribution networks did not exist, my great-grandfather would unknowingly become the initiator of BRELLUM's current distribution concept. During the week, he would concentrate on the design and production of his timepieces, and at weekends, he would travel by train to Geneva or Zurich to meet his wealthy customers directly.
A century later, BRELLUM is driven by this same vision of the intimate link between the watchmaker and the enthusiast, and distributes its timepieces directly to its customers around the world."
Bremont- "Founded in 2002 by brothers Nick and Giles English, Bremont – based in Henley on Thames in England – did not unveil its first watches until 2007. The story of these two brothers – both of whom are pilots, as was their father – is extraordinary and worthy of its own book. With annual watch production at about 10,000 pieces per year, Bremont focuses on military-inspired pieces, watches for the adventurous pioneers, and watches that have a history behind them and a story to tell. Among its most important collections: the MB series -named after the Martin Baker ejection seats – with whom Bremont partners."
Braun- "Braun’s first venture into timekeeping came about due to a chance encounter on a plane.In 1971, the boss of Braun ran into the boss of a clock movement production company. At the time, Braun didn’t have clocks in its program and both bosses were traveling to increase business, so why not do something together? This airplane encounter led to the Analog Digital Phase 1, which was followed by Phase 2 and 3, as well as digital clocks like DN 18 and DN 42."
Bulova- "IN 1875, JUST AS AMERICA WAS ENTERING ITS GOLDEN AGE OF INDUSTRY AND PROGRESS, ONE VISIONARY LEADER WOULD RISE TO IGNITE A SERIES OF ICONIC MOMENTS IN OUR NATION’S HISTORY – AND TRANSFORM THE WAY THE WORLD PERCEIVED TIME.Fueled by the era’s risk-taking ethos, Joseph Bulova presented one innovation after the next. Ultimately opening a small store in downtown New York City that would mark the beginning of his lifelong quest: to craft supreme quality timepieces for an ever-changing and dynamic landscape...
Bvlgari "The Roman house of Bulgari, founded in 1884, has an almost fairy-tale-like history. With its boutique just minutes from the famed Spanish Steps, this brand was a favorite of celebrities who traveled to Europe for films. Among them: Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, and others. From jewelry, the house turned its sites to watchmaking and established its workshops in Switzerland. Its watchmaking expertise runs the gamut from grand complications, record-setting Octo watches, magnificent high-jeweled watches and the iconic Serpenti (snake-head) watches.”
Carl. F. Bucherer-"The history and development of the Lucerne-based watch brand is closely linked to the person of Carl Friedrich Bucherer. A visionary who created timepieces that moved with the times, in the truest sense, always combining extravagance and aesthetic appeal in extraordinary ways. In 1888, Carl Friedrich Bucherer opened a jewelry and watch shop in Lucerne, and his name rapidly became a synonym for quality and originality. His two sons were destined from the cradle to follow him into the profession: one learned to become a watchmaker while the other trained as a goldsmith. Today, the combination of these two artistic skills is still reflected in the perfect form of watches...
Carl Suchy & Söhne-"Carl Suchy, born in Prague in 1796, soon takes a life-changing decision: he becomes a watch- making apprentice. After seven wandering years in Germany, Suchy returns to Prague and opens a clock manufacturer in 1822. His goal, associating his passion for precision and design with his name, is achieved with the help of his four sons. With their entry into the business, Carl Suchy & Söhne soon becomes the most important watchmaker of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy. The oldest son Carl Suchy Junior establishes a pocket watch factory in the Swiss Watch Valley “La Chaux-de-Fonds,” while his younger brother Hans opens a store in the historical center of Vienna. Suchy watches are desired objects across Austria’s borders, delight visitors and the press at world fairs such as Paris, and are essential accessories at the royal courts, aristocratic estates, and the salons of Austria’s intellectual elite. Carl Suchy & Söhne is firmly positioned as Austria’s leading watchmaker before an involuntary creative break that started around 1914.In 2016 Carl Suchy & Söhne is reestablished – the only luxury watch brand that combines Viennese elegance and Swiss precision."
Cartier-"Cartier was established in Paris in 1847 when its founder, Louis-Francois Cartier, took over his master’s workshop. Despite immense uncertainty and unrest during the ongoing French Revolution, Cartier continued to see success and growth over the next decade, opening the first Cartier boutique in 1859.In 1874, Louis-Francois’ son, Alfred Cartier, took over the business. Alfred’s business acumen was far more advanced than that of his father, and it was his ambition to grow the business quickly. Alfred was instrumental in introducing Cartier into the royal houses of Europe and beyond, with Cartier’s designs being particularly popular with King Edward VII. Cartier enjoyed immense success in the late 1800s and eventually opened a showroom in Paris’s Rue de La Paix area in 1899. While Alfred was successful in establishing Cartier as the go-to choice for the French elite, it was his sons Louis, Pierre and Jacques that would bring the Cartier brand to worldwide renown.In 1874, Louis-Francois’ son, Alfred Cartier, took over the business. Alfred’s business acumen was far more advanced than that of his father, and it was his ambition to grow the business quickly. Alfred was instrumental in introducing Cartier into the royal houses of Europe and beyond, with Cartier’s designs being particularly popular with King Edward VII. Cartier enjoyed immense success in the late 1800s and eventually opened a showroom in Paris’s Rue de La Paix area in 1899. While Alfred was successful in establishing Cartier as the go-to choice for the French elite, it was his sons Louis, Pierre and Jacques that would bring the Cartier brand to worldwide renown."
Casio "In 1974, the Japanese company CASIO set a milestone in the history of watches by developing one of the world's first digital wristwatches.
CASIO continues to manufacture watches that impress with their function and design and that not only anticipate trends, but also set them.
The CASIO Vintage Collection transfers the stylish and characteristic watch design of the 70s and 80s into the present. The original CASIO Vintage design is brought to life in four collections - ICONIC, MINI, ROUND and EDGY."
Century "Relatively young for a Swiss watch brand, Century was established in 1966 by Hans-Ulrich Klingenberg, the brand is perhaps best known for its incredible faceted high-tech sapphire cases. Thanks to a technical innovation that enabled a bonding of two pieces of sapphire into one, this brand has been able to produce elegant, sophisticated, and unusual watches. Key collections include Master Imperial with highly sculpted sapphire crystals, the Precious Elegance series for women, and more."
Certina "Certina S.A. was founded in 1888 when Adolf and Alfred Kurth opened in Grenchen their first movement and supplies factory for the watchmaking industry. At the start Certina's staff consisted of three employees working in a workshop that was connected to the family home. They did not begin producing complete watches and timepieces for a few years which they then did alongside their work producing movements for other companies. By 1938 the company had expanded and 250 employees celebrated the 50th anniversary of the company.
Certina continued to expand and by 1955 the company had 500 employees working between the factory and offices, producing 1,000 timepieces every day. Certina worked up a new business plan that expanded its operations."
Chanel "The CHANEL watch collection premiered in 1987 with the appropriately named PREMIÈRE watch. The watch’s unconventional design was inspired by the Place Vendome, the iconic square in the heart of Paris. This particular piece of urban design is distinguished for its clipped corners that give the square its unique octagonal shape. This architectural influence was combined with design concepts from CHANEL’s No5 perfume bottle and its cabochon stopper to complete the PREMIÈRE’s design.On the heels of this debut, CHANEL opened its first watch boutique at 40 Avenue Montaigne in Paris’s posh shopping district.Over the years, CHANEL’s watch business flourished with the acquisition of Manufacture C&F Chatelain in Switzerland. In turn, CHANEL expanded Chatelain’s factory floors to make room for the growing collection. Soon after, in 1997, another boutique opened in Paris at 18 Place Vendome, across from the Ritz Hotel where Mademoiselle Chanel historically resided."
Chopard "Chopard was founded by Louis-Ulysse Chopard in 1860 and started life as a watchmaker. In 1937 however, Chopard relocated their watch-making business from the Swiss Jura to Geneva. The family-run business fell into trouble under the direction of the third generation, and so they searched for a suitable buyer.The Chopard business was handed over to Karl Scheufele III. Karl Scheufele III shared Chopard's love for creativity and watchmaking and so seemed a natural choice. Karl Scheufele I entered the jewellery industry at a young age and in later life wanted to support artists and jewellers, dedicating his time to the Association of Arts and Craftsmanship in Pforzheim, Germany.This culture of sharing knowledge and mentoring has remained with Chopard, with the company scooping the award for ‘Best Training Company’ in Geneva in 2008."
Christophe Claret "In 1987, Christophe Claret was 25 years old. His first ever trip to the Basel Watch Fair led to an encounter with a person who would change his life forever. Rolf Schnyder, a Swiss industrialist who had just acquired the Ulysse Nardin brand, placed an order with him for 20 minute repeater movements with jacks. This marked the start of a spectacular development. After creating a first company in La Chaux-de-Fonds, he officially set up the Manufacture Claret.Within a decade, his name became a benchmark in the field of complication movements. The most prestigious clients, such as Ulysse Nardin, Franck Muller, de Grisogono, Jean Dunand and Harry Winston, turned to the famous watchmaker in developing their most complex timepieces. Christophe Claret therefore decided to install his company within a setting worthy of its reputation and its ambitions. In 1999, he acquired the Manoir du Soleil d'Or, a venerable mansion perched on the heights above the nearby town of Le Locle, just a few steps from the Musée d'Horlogerie des Monts. He set up his workshops there, giving a new lease on life to this magnificent residence that former belonged to the legendary watchmaker Urban Jürgensen."
Chronoswiss- "Founded in 1983 in Lucerne, Switzerland, by German master watchmaker Gerd-Rudiger Lang, Chronoswiss is known for its mechanical innovations. The brand was the first to miniaturize the regulator concept from pocket watches and develop an entire series of fascinating wristwatches with off-center displays. Today, the brand brings the classical idea to full-scale contemporary three-dimensional size. Its Flying Regulators with Open Gears complement its Heritage and Classic lines.”
Citizen "In the Japan of the 1920s, most of the watches sold were pocket watches imported from overseas. Determined to create a Japan-made rival product, the Shokosha Watch Research Institute, the precursor of CITIZEN, launched its own pocket watch in 1924. As a first product, it was magnificent—but it lacked a name. Tokyo Mayor Count Shinpei Goto was asked to suggest one. The name he came up with was “CITIZEN,” an expression of the hope that as many people as possible—citizens—would use and cherish the watch for a long time.With the birth of the Citizen Watch Company in 1930, the name of that first pocket watch became the name of the company. A watch that is an integral part of people’s lives. This, the brand concept of The CITIZEN, has been something we have aspired to since the early days of the company and that first pocket watch"
Claude Meylan-"In the heart of Jura Switzerland and more precisely in L’Abbaye, typical village of the Vallée de Joux where the harsh winters have given birth to great ideas and realizations of time measurement, the Family House CLAUDE MEYLAN maintains and proudly perpetuates its know-how ancestral.MEYLAN is one of the four historical families founding fine watchmaking: in the middle of the 18th century, Samuel Olivier Meylan and Abraham-Samuel Meylan were introduced to the watchmaking arts in Rolle and Fleurier. Back in Vallée de Joux, Samuel-Olivier Meylan designs and manufactures pocket watches equipped with movements and music discs and, naturally, the passion for movement becomes a family tradition. CLAUDE MEYLAN strengthens its heritage and extends its know-how by “undressing” and decorating each element of the movement."
Corum- "Corum "Born in 1955, Swiss watch brand Corum has regularly been turning heads with its unique designs and bold spirit. The brand loves to work with unusual case shapes and high mechanics, but also offers such classic collections as the Corum Coin watch (made with an actual coin that is cut in half so the movement can be placed inside), the famed Golden Bridge series (with vertical in-line movement totally visible thanks to a sapphire case, and more. It established a cult-like following with its beloved Bubble watches, that are still created today."
Cuervo y Sobrinos- "Founded in 1882, Cuervo y Sobrinos has a prodigious history, enriched with many significant milestones along the way. By having a long history, there is an inference that a company possesses expertise and certainly over the coming pages there are many examples of the Maison’s virtuosityHowever, while Cuervo y Sobrinos is proud of its past, it chooses to wholeheartedly embrace the future with magnificent watches that engender desire and confer lasting joy. Indeed, it is the company’s belief that its best years are yet to come."
Cvstos "Cvstos "It was in 2005 that Cvstos was founded in Switzerland with the concept of creating distinctively bold and complex watches. The brand takes its name from the Latin word for “guardian” and follows a creed to be guardian of the pioneering spirit in watches. Its tonneau-shaped pieces offer three-dimensional appeal thanks to innovative movement architecture. Key collections include its Tourbillon, Chrono and QP (perpetual calendar) series.”
Cyrus "Cyrus was founded by a Swiss entrepreneurial family with a long tradition in the creation of leading global luxury brands. Based on their profound luxury expertise and their passion for the haute horlogerie, the family has created the Cyrus brand in 2010.To realize their vision of high-end watchmaking, the family believes in working with the best and most creative people. Thus, Cyrus has partnered with Jean-Francois Mojon, one of the greatest and most inspirational master watchmakers of our time.Cyrus also believes in the benefits of owning its own and completely independent Manufacture. The Cyrus strategy takes a long-term perspective that is enabled by the family ownership. The corresponding financial independence of the Cyrus brand is at the basis of its creative freedom and brand’s uniqueness.General Manager of CYRUS is Walter Ribaga, with a qualified professional career of over 35 years of experience in the watchmaking sector."
Czapek "1811 marked the birth of Franciszek Czapek in Semonice, kingdom of Bohemia (nowadays Czech Republic). He emigrated to Poland with his family in his youth, retaining Czech and Polish citizenship.1832 Franciszek fled to Switzerland following the collapse of the Polish uprising, in which he actively participated. A gifted watchmaker, he soon founded his first company, "Czapek & Moreau", with a local partner, and Gallicized his name to François.1839 François Czapek and Antoine Norbert de Patek, both Polish emigrants, survivors of an insurrection that had forced them to flee, met in 1836. This encounter changed their lives. Czapek invited his countryman Patek to delve into the realm of watchmaking. Together they founded the company Patek, Czapek & Cie on May 1. 1839."
De Bethune "De Bethune "Swiss independent watch brand De Bethune was first founded in 2002 in Switzerland. The brand looked to create avant-garde designs with chronometric precision. De Bethune’s most popular collections include the DB series of watches that feature lugs that enable the case to move so it is more ergonomically appealing on the wrist. It is known for its use of bold blue color in its cutting-edge timepieces.”
Delbana "When our founder Goliardo Della Balda arrived in Switzerland in the 1920s, timepieces were reserved for specialists and the wealthy. As a young entrepreneur, he was determined to change that and set out to educate himself in horology. In 1931 he established Delbana to produce quality Swiss Made timepieces that were fashionable and affordable..
Delma- "In 1924, the brothers Adolf and Albert Gilomen founded A. & A. Gilomen S.A. in Lengnau near Grenchen, Switzerland. In 1966, the company was renamed Delma Watch Ltd. after one of the initial four model names following the takeover by Ulrich Wüthrich & partner.The Delma insignia first appeared on pocket and wristwatches in 1933, followed by the first chronograph in 1946. Recorded under the name Midland, the classic 18-karat yellow gold chronograph equipped with a mechanical hand-winding movement signifies the beginning of Delma’s sports watch collection"
Doxa "Our journey starts in the small town of Le Locle, deep in Switzerland’s cradle of Swiss watchmaking: the Jura Mountains. Georges Ducommun was one of 13 children and only twelve years old when he began his apprenticeship with an established watchmaker in 1880. As the family was not well off, Georges had to contribute his share to the family income. Georges´ temperament for hard work and discipline combined with a passion for mechanical precision and beauty meant timepieces passed through increasingly skilled and expert hands.1889. The adventure begins..Georges had built a solid reputation for ingenuity, attention to detail, quick service and customer orientation - even walking twenty-odd kilometers to deliver a watch. But he was never satisfied. As he brought each tiny component and movement to life, Georges imagined how he could tweak it to make an even better watch. Georges soon realized it was time to step out of his comfort zone and opened his own business, “Georges Ducommun, Fabriques Doxa” at the age of 21"
Ebel "Ebel "Founded by husband and wife Eugène Blum and Alice Lévy, in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland in 1911, the complementary talents and interests bequeathed by the couple have shaped the heritage and spirit of EBEL. The very name, EBEL, is an acronym of the initials “Eugène Blum Et Lévy"-https://www.ebel.com/en/milestones-1911.html
Eberhard & Co "The Eberhard & Co manufacture was founded on 1887 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, the historic birthplace of the Swiss watchmaking industry by George-Emile Eberhard. Eberhard was the son of a prominent Bernese family tracing its origins back to the 10th century, which was involved in the development of the Swiss watchmaking industry. His father early initiated him to the art of watch making and Eberhard was only 22 when he founded the company.In 1907, the company has become one of the largest Swiss watch manufacture and inaugurated its new headquarters which takes an entire block at the very center of rue Leopold Robert, La Chaux-de-Fonds's main avenue. The five-story building was reminiscent of the 19th century Paris works of Georges-Eugène Haussmann, designed in the distinctive Beaux Arts style with a round tower topped by a large eagle sculpture and has become one of the city's well-known landmarks and its highest structure until the 1960s. In 1919, Eberhard's sons, Georges and Maurice took over the company."
Elgin Watch Company-"Founded in 1864 in Elgin, Illinois, the Elgin Watch Company (also known as the Elgin National Watch Company) was the largest American watch manufacturer in terms of total production. In fact, Elgin produced approximately half of the total number of “better quality” pocket watches manufactured in the United States. Total production over their 100 years of operation reached 60 million watches, making Elgin one of the most commonly collected vintage watches, since there are still so many examples available at reasonable prices.
Sname remained until they stopped producing watches in the early 1960’s.
The Elgin National Watch Company went out of business in 1964."..
Faberge- "Faberge "Just the very name Fabergé conjures ideas of beautiful St. Petersburg, Tzars, and Princesses. It was in 1882 that Carl Fabergé took over his father’s jewelry business and began building an empire. From Fabergé eggs that open to reveal beautiful secrets, to jewelry, clocks, and objects of art, the company finally unveiled a dedicated watch division in 2016 in Geneva. That same year Fabergé won the GPHG watch award for its innovative world time Visionnaire DTZZ watch. Today, the brand continues to create sophisticated and complicated watches for men and women."
Fossil- "Fossil was founded in 1984 as Overseas Products International by Tom Kartsotis, a former Texas A&M University student living in Dallas from a suggestion by his older brother, Kosta Kartsotis, a merchandising executive at Sanger-Harris. Kosta told his younger brother about the potential large profits that could be made in importing retail goods made in the Far East, specifically in importing moderately-priced fashion watches.[1] Their main product was fashion watches with a retro look. In 1990, they introduced leather goods under the Fossil brand, and the Relic line of watches.Fossil had its initial public offering in 1993.Zodiac Watches was a Swiss brand that had been operating since 1882 when Fossil acquired it from Genender International in 2001 for $4.7 million.[7] Fossil's desire to establish a Swiss presence led to the purchase of the Zodiac Watch brand and a complete retooling of that line to reflect a retro modern 1970s style in a higher end watch. The 2004 purchase of Michele Watch completed the cycle by offering a high-end Swiss watch with a designer flair."
Gruen-"One of the most important and prestigious American watch manufacturers was the Gruen Watch Company, founded by a brilliant father-and-son team of horologists, Dietrich and Fred Gruen. Among the first companies to sell wristwatches, the Gruens split their manufacturing between two continents, exporting American technology to Germany and Switzerland, and bringing German and Swiss traditions of craftsmanship to America.Dietrich was born in Osthofen, Germany, in 1847, and started his watchmaking career at age 15. In 1867 he went to America and settled near Columbus, Ohio. A hard-working young man, Dietrich was awarded his first watchmaking patent at age 27, in 1874. At 29 he co-founded the Columbus Watch Manufacturing Company; the successful enterprise was soon building complete watches in its own 300-employee factory buildings.Fred, Dietrich’s oldest son, was born in 1872 and followed in his father’s footsteps. In his youth Fred worked in his father’s factory, then was sent to Germany to study watchmaking. To graduate, Fred was given bars of metal from which he had to build working watch movements, designing and manufacturing all the parts.
Gucci-"Guccio Gucci, son of an Italian trader founded the House of Gucci in Florence in 1906. Guccio, an extraordinary craftsman, started selling luxury goods in the 1920s. In 1938, Gucci opened a boutique in Rome. After Guccio's death in 1953, his son, Aldo expanded the company by opening more stores. In 1953, New York got its first Gucci store and by the late '60s, more such stores were launched in London, Paris and Tokyo. Gucci continued to be one of the leading luxury brands until the late '70s. After that a string of devastating business decisions led the company to the brink of bankruptcy.To gain its lost glory, the brand made its entrance into the watch market once again in the 1990's. This step was taken to put emphasis on their place in the fashion market. Gucci watches commenced its production in 1997 by means of an attitude based entirely on advanced quality, precision and thought to detail. Gucci pooled its creative skills in the midst of an unparalleled accuracy of Swiss craftsmanship to produce Gucci watches..."
Hamilton-Hamilton "1892-Hamilton was founded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and began producing pocket watches. Since its founding, quality and accuracy have been at the heart of its vision, and these principles have made Hamilton the internationally renowned watch brand it is today.The railroad and locomotive forever changed the history of the United States. In the early days of American railroads, there was no common method of timing and accidents were frequent. The precision of Hamilton pocket watches helped solve this problem and our timepieces soon received the title: The Watch of Railroad Accuracy."
Longines- "With a rich watchmaking tradition, Longines is one of the most well-known watch brands around the world. Founded in 1832 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, the brand is under the auspices today of the Swatch Group. With a tagline of “Elegance is an Attitude,” Longines creates sophisticated watches for men and women. Its best-selling collections include the Conquest, Heritage, Spirit and Master lines. It is highly involved in the Equestrian world, as well as gymnastics, Alpine Skiing and other realms.”
Louis Vuitton- "Initially founded in 1854 in Paris, the Louis Vuitton brand has grown from leather goods and luggage to a complete design house. It started crafting watches in 2002 with its Tambour piece with distinctive design. Eventually, the brand established La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton in Geneva to be able to produce luxury Swiss watches. By 2016, the brand had earned the right to obtain the Hallmark of Geneva for its Voyager Flying Tourbillon. Today, the brand is owned by the LVMH Group and continues to craft Haute Horology timepieces.”
Movado-"Founded in 1881 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Movado has grown to be one of the most important affordable brands in the world. It has many claims to fame, including the iconic Museum dial watch – with a single dot at 12:00 – that was created by designer George Horowitz in the Bauhaus style. The design, found in museums around the world, continues to be a best seller for Movado. Other important collections include the Movado Connect smartwatch, the Heritage Series, the Esperanza, and the Movado Bold.”
Olivia Burton "Olivia Burton was started in 2012 by two female founders with the vision to create sophisticated watches with a
playful twist. Both ex-fashion buyers, our founders craved something distinctive and inspiring that just wasn’t out
there. And so Olivia Burton was born, established in the heart of London and named after a special great aunt who
was a constant source of inspiration. We became known for our watches, fusing beautiful craftsmanship with playful
details - and now the family has grown to include timeless jewelry.”
Omega- "Originally founded in La Chaux-de-Fonds in 1848, but using another name, Omega SA has grown to be one of the world’s most well-known and beloved watch brands. It formally adopted the name Omega in 1903 as Omega Watch & Co., but its watches have been distinctive from the start. From its Seamaster watches that have made diving records, to its Speedmaster watches that have gone into Space as part of the NASA program, Omega is about offering top-quality, high-performance watches that even James Bond wears."
Patek Philippe- "Easily one of the most venerable watch brands in the world, Patek Philippe was founded in Geneva in 1839. It was acquired by the Stern family in 1932 and remains an independent family-owned company to this day. It is known as the benchmark standard for high complications and is renowned for its pioneering in new technology, its master of the rare handcrafts, and more. Patek Philippe’s beloved collections include the classic Calatrava, the sporty Aquanaut and Nautilus lines, the feminine Twenty-4, and the incredible complications and grand complications."
Pedre Watch Co.- " The Pedre Company was established in New York City in 1944 as a family owned company famous for high fashion watches sold exclusively in Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and similar high-end retailers.Before cost-cutting measures brought about the widespread use of cheaper quartz movements for many wristwatches, Pedre contracted with watch manufacturers to produce mechanical movements designed to last a lifetime. Using traditional watchmaking practices, these gifted craftsmen poured individual attention into each wristwatch."
Rado- "In 1917, brothers Fritz, Ernst and Werner Schlup made a decision that would change their lives and those of future generations: they became watchmakers. Their humble atelier was located in a converted part of their parents’ home in the village of Lengnau, Switzerland. Through their relentless energy and uncanny ability to spot new opportunities, Schlup & Co. got off to a promising start, signing agreements with a wide array of importers around the world."
Raymond Weile- "Founded in 1976 in Geneva by Raymond Weil, this Swiss watch brand continues to be family-run and operated. Initially, the brand released watch collections named for operas and music, including Maestro, Tango, Toccata, and more. Today, the company continues to craft fine watches in these and other collections with meticulous attention to dial details and case finishes. Predominantly, the Raymond Weil watches are powered by quartz movements."
Rolex ""The history of Rolex is inextricably linked to the visionary spirit of Hans Wilsdorf, its founder. In 1905, at the age of 24, Hans Wilsdorf founded a company in London specializing in the distribution of timepieces. He began to dream of a watch worn on the wrist. Wristwatches were not very precise at the time, but Hans Wilsdorf foresaw that they could become not only elegant, but also reliable.To convince the public of the reliability of his resolutely innovative timepieces, he equipped them with small, very precise movements manufactured by a Swiss watchmaking company in Bienne. He said, “I tried combining the letters of the alphabet in every possible way. This gave me some hundred names, but none of them felt quite right. One morning, while riding on the upper deck of a horse-drawn omnibus along Cheapside in the City of London, a genie whispered ‘Rolex’ in my ear.”
Rotary "With the singular vision to create timeless watches for the modern world, Rotary Watches is an award-winning worldwide brand of classic timepieces. Proud of our heritage, we are forever inspired by the brand's commitment to excellence since its inception in Switzerland in 1895 by watchmaker Moise Dreyfuss, who founded Rotary in the Swiss town of La Chaux de Fonds.Moise Dreyfuss was dedicated to creating beautiful watches with timeless elegance and enduring quality. His attention to detail and insistence on first class personal service allowed the brand to blossom, paving the way to open its doors in Britain in the early 20th Century, where its headquarters remain to this day.In 1925 the now famous winged Rotary logo was introduced and after the war, under the leadership of Teddy Dreyfuss, the brand developed further, with innovative watches, sophisticated marketing and powerful advertising campaigns.Rotary timepieces are now sold in over 65 countries throughout the world. Rotary specialises in designing enduring stylish watches, blending the old with the new and the contemporary with the classic to achieve a distinctive range of watches
Seiko- "Kintaro Hattori opens a shop selling and repairing watches and clocks in Ginza, Tokyo.The story of Seiko began in 1881, when a 21 year old entrepreneur, Kintaro Hattori, opened a shop selling and repairing watches and clocks in central Tokyo. Just eleven years later, in 1892, he established the 'Seikosha' factory.In 1892 Kintaro Hattori bought a disused factory in Tokyo and Seikosha was formed (In Japanese, "Seiko" means "exquisite", "minute" or "success" and "sha" means house). It was here that Kintaro Hattori produced his first clocks and these marked the beginnings of a company that was to become one of the world's most important manufacturers of timepieces.”
Strehler- "Strehler is an independent Swiss watchmaker based in Sirnach, in the german speaking part of Switzerland between the Alps and the Lake Constance. Founded in 2023 by the watchmaker Andreas Strehler, recognized for his ingenuity and quality work over the years. The brand essence derived from the elegant and timeless design and construction that Andreas Strehler is used to produce through the timepieces bearing his own name. But with a more attainable approach and design than the handmade pieces usually leaving his workshop..."
Skagen- "Founded in 1989, the company was the brainchild of Henrik and Charlotte Jorst, who had moved from Denmark to the US in 1986 when Henrik was appointed U.S. sales manager for Danish brewery Carlsberg. The couple decided to establish their own business as U.S. representative for a Danish manufacturer of corporate branded business gift watches, and for exclusive Jacob Jensen designer watches.After locating the Danish-owned clock and watch manufacturer, Comtech Watches, a supplier that could manufacture watches at a lower price through its Hong Kong factory, the Jorsts began designing their own watches, which they showed at a corporate gift fair in New York 1991.."
Timex- "In 1854, we combined European clockmaking and American ingenuity to take clocks from the mantels of the 1% and bring them to the rest of the world. We disrupted a 300-year-old industry, transforming delicate mantelpieces into accessible wristwatches that could take a licking and keep on ticking. But what truly defines us extends far beyond our heritage - it’s the way our watches have gone from being simple tools to cherished companions. Regardless of how you came to know and love your Timex, it does more than just tell time; it tells your story and reminds you to make time yours."
Tissot- "Tissot, watchmakers blending tradition and pioneering spirit since 1853.Nestled in the Swiss mountains of Le Locle, Tissot crafts watches that become the storytellers of life's voyage: it is not just the destination that matters, but the importance of the path filled with significant milestones and unforgettable memories.
Every Swiss timepiece crafted embodies a fusion of heritage and innovation, and while priced accessibly, stands as an enduring legacy defying the constraints of time. Going beyond watchmaking and timekeeping, Tissot accompanies individuals in every moment, celebrating not only the achievements, but the journey itself.
Waltham- " It can be said that the Waltham Watch Company descended directly from Aaron Lufkin Dennison. He technically started his first company in 1850 using interchangeable parts. The name “American Waltham Watch Company” was chosen in 1885. This was after a series of name changes (and a relocation from Boston to Waltham, Massachusetts).By the 1890s, Waltham was producing the most precise watches in the world. They were also affordable and so precise that every railroad in the US used them to time trains, according to Amy Green, PhD (and resident historian for the Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation).
The company again changed its name, this time to Waltham Watch Co. in 1907. It kept going strong all the way until the 1940s. When World War 2 hit, Waltham dedicated its entire focus on the war effort, which also meant it didn’t sell any watches to civilians.."
Wadsworth- "Wadsworth-Information about the Wadsworth Watch Case Co. can be found in the book, “History of the American Watch Case,” Warren H. Niebling. Harry Arthur Wadsworth, at the age of 26, had moved from New York City to Cincinnati, Ohio in 1886, going to work at the watch case firm Duhme & Co. Prior to 1889, he moved across the Ohio River to Newport, KY and worked at the Dueber Watch Case Manufacturing Co. Harry then became a partner with J.H. Stegman and they formed the case making firm of H.A. Wadsworth & Co. in 1889, also in Newport. Three years later, the company became incorporated as The Wadsworth Watch Case Co.In early 1893, Wadsworth purchased land for a new factory at Washington avenue and King St. The 3-story building was erected. Within five years, that space was outgrown and a new wing was added. By the end of that year (1898), the factory was closed for two weeks while repairs and renovations were made and new machinery was installed. Still growing, and needing more space as business increased, in early 1900 the plant was moved to a larger, existing set of buildings in Dayton, KY, several miles from its former Newport location. A 1950s-1960s view of the factory can be seen in a much later picture.
Wittnauer- " Born of American ingenuity with Swiss roots, Wittnauer was built on the time-honored tradition of durable and dependable watches. In 1885, 16-year-old Swiss immigrant, Albert Wittnauer joined his brother-in-law, J. Eugene Robert, in New York to work in the family watch import business. While importing fine Swiss watches to New York, he discovered a need for watches that were as stylish as they were durable. He began to create pieces which used time-honored techniques inspired by the luxury and style of the era. The A. Wittnauer Company steadily grew in the United States under the leadership of Albert Wittnauer and his brothers Louis and Emile. When the last Wittnauer brother died in 1916, Martha Wittnauer became the first woman watchmaker CEO.
Today, the original brand principles of durability and dependability that made it the timepiece of choice for the adventurous spirit, remains firmly in place for Wittnauer. In this modern era, the brand adds a new dimension to time with elegant, simplistic, streamlined designs for men and women. The signature diamond-accents on each timepiece shows off Wittnauer’s high quality. Consistently crafted with superior materials and enhanced design details, Wittnauer is the brand that continues to shine and a preferred name in watches."