Watch Facts

Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis, Rolex emerged as a pioneer in precision timekeeping. In 1926, it introduced the groundbreaking Oyster case, a sealed design ensuring water resistance. The 1930s witnessed the Perpetual movement, marking Rolex’s signature self-winding mechanism. The Submariner and Explorer collections debuted in the 1950s, while the Day-Date, featuring a day and date window, was introduced. The 1960s and 70s saw innovations like the Sea-Dweller for divers and the Cosmograph Daytona for race car drivers. Rolex’s prowess in precision led to its selection as the official timekeeper for motorsport events. The Rolex logo, a crown emblem, symbolizes excellence. Worn by figures such as Sir Edmund Hillary, Rolex’s legacy of achievement endures in its unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and iconic design, solidifying its eminent status in horology.

Established in 1918, Citizen has evolved into a prominent global watch brand. Its foundation aligns with the merging of technologies and craftsmanship. Notably, in 1924, the brand released its first pocket watch, marking its entry into horology. The establishment of the Shokosha Watch Research Institute in 1930 underscored Citizen’s commitment to innovation. The introduction of the Parashock in 1956 showcased its focus on resilience in watchmaking.

The brand’s logo, resembling an artistic rendering of “C,” embodies a circular motif, reflective of time’s perpetual nature. The logo encapsulates Citizen’s dedication to timekeeping accuracy and innovation, symbolizing the brand’s evolution from its inception to its contemporary status as a respected leader in the watch industry.

Established in 1917, the Rado brand has traversed a significant trajectory in horology. Its journey began with its foundation in Lengnau, Switzerland. Pioneering the fusion of innovative materials and design, Rado gained recognition for its groundbreaking approach. Notably, Rado’s inventive use of ceramic materials in the 1980s revolutionized watchmaking, setting new industry standards. Throughout its history, Rado has consistently upheld a commitment to combining cutting-edge technology with aesthetic appeal.

The Rado logo consists of a simple anchor-shaped emblem accompanied by the brand name “RADO” in capital letters. The anchor, depicted horizontally, symbolizes stability, strength, and reliability, characteristics that align with Rado’s commitment to precision and durability in watchmaking.

Established in 1853 by Charles-Félicien Tissot and his son, Tissot is a distinguished Swiss watchmaker renowned for its innovative timepieces. In 1853, the company began as “Charles-Félicien Tissot & Son” in Le Locle, Switzerland. Tissot marked a milestone in 1930 by introducing the first non-magnetic watch. This commitment to innovation continued with the 1953 launch of the Tissot Navigator, the world’s first mass-produced antimagnetic watch.

The Tissot logo, comprised of the brand name in distinctive typography, echoes the company’s heritage of refinement and precision. Its logo has evolved over time, yet the essence of classic sophistication remains.

Established in 1832, Longines holds a prominent position in watchmaking history. Its legacy is marked by significant milestones: The brand introduced its first movement in 1867, and by 1880, it had already earned global recognition for its timekeeping precision. In 1913, Longines developed the revolutionary high-precision chronograph movement, solidifying its reputation for innovation.

The Longines logo, an hourglass with wings, speaks to its timekeeping expertise and elegance. It was registered in 1889, symbolizing the brand’s commitment to both precision and grace. The hourglass underscores accurate timing, while the wings evoke notions of swiftness and freedom, resonating with the brand’s spirit.

Established in 1839 by Antoine Norbert de Patek and François Czapek, Patek Philippe stands as a pinnacle of Swiss watchmaking. A pivotal moment came in 1845 when Jean-Adrien Philippe joined, bringing key innovations like the crown winding mechanism. In 1868, the brand developed its first wristwatch. In 1932, the Stern family assumed ownership, nurturing Patek Philippe’s legacy.

The Patek Philippe logo, a stylized Calatrava Cross, has evolved since its introduction in 1857. Inspired by the Calatrava cross, which symbolizes a blend of art and science, the logo mirrors the brand’s core values. Its current form, a refined emblem, was introduced in the 1950s, embodying timeless elegance and tradition.

Patek Philippe is renowned for its handcrafted timepieces, exemplified by the 1925 debut of the cushion-shaped Gondolo watch and the celebrated Calatrava collection in 1932. The 1989 creation of the Calibre 89, a pocket watch with numerous complications, underscored the brand’s technical prowess.

Established in 1791, Girard-Perregaux is a distinguished Swiss watch brand. Notable dates include Constant Girard’s 1889 creation of the Tourbillon with Three Gold Bridges and the 1945 launch of the “Eagle” collection. The emblematic logo features an arrow-ended laurel wreath encircling “GP,” symbolizing victory and precision. Renowned for watches like Vintage 1945 and Laureato, Girard-Perregaux blends heritage and innovation seamlessly.

Jaeger-LeCoultre was founded in 1833 by Antoine LeCoultre. In 1844, he invented the keyless watch system, a pivotal moment in watchmaking history. The company further advanced watch technology with the creation of the Millionometer in 1847, a device capable of measuring micron-level precision.

In 1903, LeCoultre joined forces with Parisian watchmaker Edmond Jaeger, giving rise to the Jaeger-LeCoultre brand. This partnership led to the development of ultra-thin movements and iconic timepieces.

The company’s logo, a stylized gold “JL” intertwined within an oval, symbolizes its fusion of precision craftsmanship and timeless elegance. This emblematic logo embodies Jaeger-LeCoultre’s commitment to horological excellence, epitomizing its esteemed position in the world of luxury watchmaking.

Established in 1846 Ulysse Nardin has a rich history characterized by horological innovation. Its early achievements include precision marine chronometers, which garnered recognition at international exhibitions in the late 19th century. Notable historic dates include the introduction of the Astrolabium Galileo Galilei in 1985, a wristwatch with astronomical indications.

Ulysse Nardin’s logo features an anchor, paying homage to the brand’s maritime heritage and its legacy of crafting marine chronometers. This emblem reflects the connection between Ulysse Nardin’s historic contribution to accurate timekeeping for maritime navigation and its contemporary presence in the world of luxury watchmaking. The logo’s use of an anchor aligns with Ulysse Nardin’s commitment to precision and craftsmanship, bridging its historical significance with its modern horological endeavors.

Vacheron Constantin, established in 1755 in Geneva, stands as one of the world’s oldest and most esteemed watchmakers. Its legacy of excellence is underscored by significant milestones: In 1770, the company’s founder, Jean-Marc Vacheron, crafted the first complication timepiece. In 1810, Vacheron Constantin pioneered engine-turned dials. The brand’s commitment to precision led to its adoption of the metric system for watchmaking in 1844. The emblematic Maltese Cross logo, introduced in 1880, symbolizes the brand’s commitment to horological tradition and innovation. Throughout its history, Vacheron Constantin has showcased exemplary craftsmanship, from the iconic 1907 “tonneau” case to the launch of the American 1921 collection. This dedication has garnered recognition, with Vacheron Constantin timepieces gracing the wrists of esteemed individuals and making enduring contributions to horological heritage.