Watch Facts

Zodiac, founded in 1882 by Ariste Calame in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, is renowned for its innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship. The brand initially focused on producing pocket watches but gained prominence with its wristwatches, including the introduction of the first automatic sports watch, the Zodiac Autographic, in 1930. In 1953, Zodiac launched the Sea Wolf, one of the world’s first commercial dive watches, which became an iconic model favored by professional divers and the U.S. Navy SEALs.

Zodiac faced financial difficulties in the late 20th century, leading to its acquisition by the Fossil Group in 2001. Since then, the brand has experienced a resurgence, particularly with the reintroduction of the Super Sea Wolf collection, blending vintage aesthetics with modern technology. Today, Zodiac continues to innovate, offering a range of timepieces that cater to both traditional watch enthusiasts and modern consumers​

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.

Tutima, founded in 1927 in Glashütte, Germany, is renowned for its high-quality aviation and military-inspired timepieces. The brand gained prominence with the development of the Flieger chronograph in 1941 and has continued to innovate in the field of chronograph technology. Today, Tutima maintains its reputation for precision and durability, producing robust watches for both professional and civilian use, with a strong emphasis on their rich horological heritage and craftsmanship​

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.

Founded in 1950, Orient Watch Company has its origins in 1901 when Shogoro Yoshida began selling imported pocket watches. Orient is known for producing high-quality, affordable mechanical watches with in-house movements. The brand’s most iconic collections include the Orient Star, the Mako and Ray dive watches, and the elegant Bambino dress watches.

Orient has maintained its reputation for reliability and value, often compared favorably with Seiko and Citizen. Since 2001, Orient has been part of the Seiko Epson group, further enhancing its technological and manufacturing capabilities

Montblanc, established in 1906, is a renowned luxury brand known for its exceptional craftsmanship and refined products. Founded by Claus-Johannes Voss, Alfred Nehemias, and August Eberstein in Hamburg, Germany, Montblanc began as a manufacturer of high-quality pens. The name “Montblanc” itself is inspired by the majestic mountain, symbolizing the brand’s aspiration for excellence.

The brand’s iconic logo, the white star with six points, represents the snowy peak of Mont Blanc, signifying the brand’s commitment to the highest standards of quality and performance. This emblem, introduced in 1913, embodies the brand’s pursuit of enduring elegance and precision in its creations.

Over time, Montblanc diversified its offerings beyond writing instruments to include exquisite leather goods, watches, and accessories. In 1997, the Montblanc Meisterstück watch collection was launched, reflecting the brand’s dedication to meticulous design and Swiss watchmaking expertise.

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.

Founded in 1911 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Ebel is a distinguished watch brand renowned for its refined elegance and craftsmanship. In 1914, the brand introduced its first wristwatch, marking the inception of its legacy. Ebel’s commitment to precision and artistry gained recognition in 1930 when it became a supplier to the British Royal Air Force.

Significant to Ebel’s history, the year 1977 witnessed the launch of the Sport Classic collection, combining sporty aesthetics with luxurious detailing. In 1982, Ebel introduced the Sport Wave collection, characterized by its distinctive wave-link bracelet, blending innovation with design.

Ebel’s logo is a stylized “E,” representing the brand’s name. This insignia embodies Ebel’s dedication to elegance and serves as a hallmark of its timepieces. The logo encapsulates the brand’s ethos of timeless sophistication, mirroring its commitment to artisanship and enduring design.

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.

Founded in 1875 by Joseph Bulova, a Bohemian immigrant, Bulova has established itself as one of the most innovative and influential watch brands in history. Known for numerous horological advancements, Bulova made significant contributions to timekeeping, including the invention of the Accutron watch in 1960, the first fully electronic watch that utilized a tuning fork for unparalleled accuracy.

Throughout its history, Bulova has been involved in notable events and achievements, such as producing military watches and instruments during World War II, sponsoring the first television commercial in 1941, and providing timing instruments for NASA’s space missions, including the Apollo 15 mission where a Bulova chronograph was worn on the moon. Today, Bulova remains a prominent name in watchmaking, celebrated for its blend of innovation, precision, and stylish design