[Alexander]

A Comprehensive Investigation into the Historical Background of Watch Brands: The Phenomenon of “Valuation”

Patek Philippe
Founded

A Comprehensive Investigation into the Historical Background of Watch Brands: The Phenomenon of “Valuation”

Patek Philippe
Founded in 1839, Patek Philippe stands as the only family-owned watch manufacturer in Switzerland. Renowned for its meticulous design and manufacturing processes, Patek Philippe executes all production stages in its Geneva factory, making it the sole brand where every movement receives the esteemed ”Geneva Seal”, distinguishing itself within the echelons of global watch brands.

Vacheron Constantin
With a legacy dating back to 1775, Vacheron Constantin, one of the oldest and continuously operating watch brands, was established by Jean-Marc Vacheron, a profound humanist. Acclaimed as masterpieces among the nobility, Vacheron Constantin has played a pivotal role in Swiss watchmaking and is now part of the Swiss Richemont Group.

Audemars Piguet
In 1875, Jules-Louis Audemars and his friend Edward-Auguste Piguet co-founded Audemars Piguet. In 1972, the brand introduced the “Royal Oak”, a stainless steel luxury sports watch that has become an icon in the industry. Audemars Piguet maintains a watchmaking school in Switzerland, ensuring that apprentices complete a rigorous 4-year program before attaining their qualification as watchmakers, underscoring the brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

Breguet
Established by A. Louis Breguet in 1775, Breguet quickly gained the admiration of royalty and luminaries across Europe, with King Louis XVI and Queen Marie-Antoinette among its patrons. Literary giants such as Balzac, Pushkin, Dumas, and Hugo have mentioned Breguet in their works. Notable figures including Queen Victoria and Winston Churchill were also clients of Breguet, which is now a subsidiary of the Swatch Group.

Cartier
With over 150 years of history, Cartier, a renowned French jeweler, ventured into watchmaking in 1888. By creating the world’s smallest wristwatch for Princess Elizabeth of England in 1938, Cartier solidified its status as a cherished brand among high society. Today, Cartier remains a coveted brand under the Richemont Group.

Jaeger-LeCoultre
Antoine LeCoultre founded his workshop in Switzerland in 1833, pioneering precision in watchmaking with the invention of the micrometer in 1844. Jaeger-LeCoultre introduced the world’s thinnest movement in 1907 and the smallest movement in 1929. The Reverso, designed for polo players in 1931, remains a timeless masterpiece, with the brand now part of the Richemont Group.

Rolex
Founded by Hans Wilsdorf in 1908, Rolex developed the first waterproof watch in the 1920s and introduced the Submariner, a diving watch, in 1953. Rolex’s design philosophy emphasizes sobriety, practicality, and an understated elegance, making it a favorite among many.

Girard-Perregaux
The legacy of Girard-Perregaux began with J. F. Bautte’s first watch in 1791, and the Girard-Perregaux name was officially adopted in 1854. By the early 20th century, the brand gained prominence, and its strategic focus on wristwatches since the 19th century proved prescient as wristwatch sales surpassed pocket watches in 1930.

Through the lens of these illustrious brands, we delve into the rich tapestry of history that underpins the world of luxury watchmaking, revealing the essence and enduring appeal of these timekeeping marvels.

More...

Less...

[Author]

Posts