When you think of countries known for their watchmaking skills, France usually isn’t one of the first names to come to mind. However, France has a rich history in watchmaking, and over the years, numerous brands have emerged, each with its unique style and craftsmanship.
Today, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about French watches. First, we’ll show you France’s watchmaking history and then we’ll introduce twenty-three French watch brands that you can buy from today. Are you ready? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
French Watchmaking History
From the 13th century onwards, the history of French watchmaking has evolved through various stages. Beginning with early attempts to measure time accurately, the emergence of clockmaking in France marked the political and religious significance of time measurement, with both the Church and monarchs employing timekeeping for distinct purposes. The introduction of the motor spring around 1410 led to the creation of portable domestic clocks and the eventual development of the first watches in the 1500s, often attributed to Peter Henlein in Germany.
In 1518, Julien Coudray crafted what is considered the first “French” watch for King François 1er, marking a significant step in the evolution of watchmaking in France. However, the revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685 had devastating effects on the industry, leading to the emigration of skilled watchmakers to Switzerland. Despite this setback, French watchmaking regained prominence during the Enlightenment, with master watchmakers like Julien Leroy contributing to its resurgence. Abraham-Louis Breguet’s innovations, including the Tourbillon and automatic winding, further solidified France’s role in horological advancement.
The 19th century saw the development of practical watch features, such as the relocation of the winding stem to index 3 and the establishment of standardized time with the Greenwich meridian. The 20th century brought resilience and innovation, with breakthroughs like unbreakable glass in 1931 and the revolutionary introduction of quartz watches in the 1970s, paving the way for digital displays. By 2021, watchmaking had transformed into an integral part of daily life, embracing both traditional craftsmanship and technological advancements, including the rise of connected watches that underscored the industry’s ability to merge heritage, style, and technology.
The Best French Watch Brands to Own Today
We’ve covered Italian watch brands and we’ve looked at Japanese watch brands. Now, it’s time to put France on the map. Every French watch brand below has been chosen because they’re the best of the best. If you’re going to buy a French watch, choose one from this list.
23. Ralf Tech
Credit: Ralf Tech
Ralf Tech is a brand known for its pragmatic approach to watchmaking, prioritizing the well-being of its watches and customers. They uniquely manufacture some of their watches in France and others in Switzerland, based on the model’s specific requirements and benefits. This thoughtful strategy highlights their commitment to optimal craftsmanship.
Inspired by the world of professional and military diving, Ralf Tech watches feature highly legible displays and exceptional water resistance, reaching up to 3,000 meters. This emphasis on functionality and durability ensures their timepieces excel even in challenging conditions. By blending the strengths of both countries and catering to diverse preferences, Ralf Tech offers a range of watches that reflect their dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction.
22. Chanel
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Chanel stands as a prime illustration of a prominent French luxury brand venturing into the realm of horology. Among their noteworthy offerings is the renowned J12 collection. While initially resembling a classic designer watch, delving deeper uncovers an array of meticulous details and the integration of cutting-edge materials and technology, such as ceramic cases. These attributes firmly position Chanel as a significant contender within the watch industry, deserving of attention and recognition.
Within the world of watchmaking, Chanel’s signature J12 collection holds a distinct allure. While it may present itself as a customary designer timepiece, a closer examination reveals a wealth of intricate craftsmanship and modern innovation. Notably, the incorporation of advanced materials like ceramic for watch cases showcases Chanel’s commitment to pushing boundaries. This dedication to both aesthetics and technology solidifies Chanel’s prominent role in shaping the watch industry landscape. As watch enthusiasts explore the intersection of luxury and horology, Chanel emerges as a standout brand that seamlessly combines sophistication and innovative design.
21. Breguet
Credit: British GQ
Founded in 1775 by Abraham-Louis Breguet in Paris, Breguet, despite being headquartered in Switzerland as part of the Swiss Swatch Group since 1999, remains inherently a French brand at its core. This historical duality contributes to its unique identity within the world of watchmaking.
Breguet stands as one of the venerable and pioneering names in the realm of horology, playing a significant role in shaping the contemporary watch industry. Notably, Breguet’s influence extends to groundbreaking innovations, including the invention of the tourbillon, a marvel of precision engineering that remains a hallmark of the brand. Additionally, the brand’s contributions encompass more than just technical advancements – Breguet’s legacy includes the manufacture of the world’s first wristwatch, alongside distinct stylistic elements like the Breguet spiral, hands, and numerals, which have become industry standards.
Delving into Breguet’s collections reveals an array of exquisitely crafted timepieces boasting distinctive designs. Their refined artistry garnered admiration even from the French Royal Family, underscoring the brand’s commitment to elegance and craftsmanship. With a storied history that spans centuries and innovations that have left an indelible mark, Breguet continues to maintain its stature as a revered and influential force within the watchmaking landscape.
20. Louis Vuitton
Credit: Swisswatches Magazine
Louis Vuitton, a prominent Parisian fashion house, has made a distinctive mark in the realm of horology. Their foray into watchmaking encompasses a fascinating range of timepieces, extending beyond the realm of bejeweled adornments. Notably, their collection spans various niches, including rugged dive watches, outdoor adventure tool watches, and innovative electronically-connected watches.
What sets Louis Vuitton apart is their willingness to embrace diverse segments of watchmaking, a departure from the conventional expectations associated with haute couture labels. In a heartening move, the brand’s commitment to horology parallels their dedication to fashion. This dual focus exemplifies their seriousness towards crafting timepieces that mirror the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail as their renowned clothing lines.
The involvement of French fashion brands in watchmaking stands as a notable trend, showcasing a deep appreciation for both style and functionality. Louis Vuitton’s exploration of unexpected niches within watchmaking underlines their innovative spirit and willingness to transcend traditional boundaries. This fusion of fashion and horology demonstrates their holistic approach to luxury, presenting enthusiasts with an array of choices that cater to various tastes and preferences.
19. Dior
Credit: Dior
Dior’s watch offerings uniquely highlight a feminine perspective, emphasizing haute joaillerie and meticulously gem-set pieces across their collections. Among the array of captivating timepieces they offer, a standout creation is their annual tribute to the Lunar New Year. This special series showcases intricate depictions of the animals from the Chinese Zodiac, resulting in stunning and beautifully crafted watches.
An exceptional example of their craftsmanship is the 2023 edition, which showcases a radiant portrayal of a rabbit positioned beneath a tree, set against a backdrop of celestial stars. This harmonious blend of artistic design and horological expertise speaks volumes about Dior’s commitment to creating watches that resonate with cultural significance and visual allure.
Dior’s watchmaking approach successfully marries elegance with cultural celebration, providing enthusiasts with timepieces that transcend mere functional utility. By drawing inspiration from the Chinese Zodiac, Dior not only adds an element of storytelling to their watches but also extends a gesture of respect towards diverse traditions and their significance. This blending of creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural appreciation underscores Dior’s role as a brand that brings together artistry and horology in a unique and captivating manner.
18. Neucarl
Credit: Neucarl
Hailing from the southern region of France, Neucarl emerges as a modest yet intriguing brand that embodies the quintessential French concept of avant-garde. This distinctive approach draws inspiration from the forefront of art, architecture, and design, embracing the beautiful and experimental elements that push boundaries. This philosophy resonates profoundly within their hallmark collection, the Sept Mai, resulting in a timepiece that transcends traditional horology and takes on the essence of a contemporary art piece.
At the heart of Neucarl’s identity is a commitment to merging aesthetics and innovation, epitomizing the avant-garde spirit. Their Sept Mai collection exemplifies this fusion with an architectural dial that features a compelling segmented design adorned with delicate lines. This thoughtful design, akin to a work of modern art, elevates the watch beyond its functional purpose to become an emblem of artistic expression.
Neucarl’s dedication to the avant-garde ethos showcases the brand’s willingness to challenge conventions and explore the uncharted realms of design. Their approach not only reinvents timekeeping but also introduces an artistic dimension to the wrist. By embracing the interplay between aesthetics and experimentation, Neucarl creates timepieces that not only tell time but also embody the ever-evolving spirit of contemporary creativity.
17. BRM
BRM stands as a vibrant and distinct watch brand, renowned for its colorful and imaginative designs. With a limited selection of collections, BRM crafts timepieces that range from race-inspired chronographs to golf-themed elegance. These watches come in bold sizes and vibrant colors, some even adopting unconventional shapes that mirror racing car engines.
What sets BRM apart is their annual production of around 2,000 watches, embracing exclusivity. Furthermore, they offer the unique option of personalization through their website, allowing enthusiasts to create truly one-of-a-kind timepieces. BRM’s fusion of creativity, limited releases, and customization options positions them as a beacon of artistic watchmaking, catering to those who seek unconventional yet stylish wristwear.
16. Serica
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Based in Paris, Serica is a micro brand renowned for its skillful fusion of utilitarian functionality and fresh designs in the realm of tool watches. Their collection spans classic sports watches, beater watches, GMTs, field-oriented timepieces, and even diving watches. What truly distinguishes Serica is its ability to infuse each watch with a unique design, despite being meant for outdoor work.
Serica’s approach to design goes beyond the ordinary, making their watches visually distinct and appealing. Their commitment to offering quality timepieces at attractive prices makes them an appealing choice for watch enthusiasts with varying budgets. In essence, Serica stands as a prime example of a micro brand that marries practicality, innovation, and affordability, providing watch aficionados with exceptional options that combine both style and substance.
15. Pequignet
Established in 1974, Pequignet is a relatively new entrant in the world of watchmaking, yet its ascent to prominence has been swift and impressive. This rise to fame can be attributed to their distinctive in-house caliber, the Calibre Royale. This proprietary movement has garnered widespread acclaim and numerous accolades within the watchmaking industry, solidifying Pequignet’s reputation on a global scale.
Nestled in the picturesque French town of Morteau, situated within the renowned Besançon region, Pequignet showcases a unique blend of elegance and engineering prowess in their watch collections. Their commitment to refinement is complemented by their expertise in intricate movements. An intriguing aspect of their craftsmanship is the incorporation of various complications into a single main plate, a technical feat that results in exquisitely slim timepieces.
Pequignet’s relatively short history is underscored by their ability to balance classic elegance with innovative engineering. Their dedication to both aesthetic appeal and technical mastery highlights their determination to make a distinct mark in the watch industry. This fusion of tradition and innovation resonates with enthusiasts seeking watches that not only embody timeless charm but also showcase cutting-edge craftsmanship.
14. Dodane
Established in 1857, Dodane boasts a heritage steeped in precision and aviation horology. While their repertoire might seem streamlined compared to other brands, the essence of Dodane lies in their specialized focus. Their notable claim to fame is the renowned Type 21 flyback chronograph, initially developed as a pilot’s watch for the French Ministry of Defense during the 1950s. This timepiece has earned a place in history as a reliable instrument for aviation professionals.
Dodane’s dedication to aviation horology is further evidenced by the newer addition to their lineup, the Type 23, tailored for the French Air Force. Their commitment to serving military aviation extends beyond wristwatches, encompassing cockpit instruments for both civilian and military aircraft.
Of particular significance is Dodane’s decision to reissue their original Type 21 model, a move that not only pays homage to their legacy but also underlines the enduring relevance of their designs. This carefully curated collection carries the weight of being proven in the most rigorous of circumstances – tested by esteemed institutions like the French Air Force. Dodane’s legacy, born from a rich history of aviation and precision engineering, continues to thrive as a testament to their unwavering dedication to creating timepieces that serve those who navigate the skies.
13. Baltic
Operating from Besançon, Baltic stands out as a brand that excels in creating contemporary timepieces inspired by vintage aesthetics. Their production hub in this French city is a testament to their commitment to quality craftsmanship. What sets Baltic apart is their unique ability to blend simplicity with satisfaction, resulting in modern watches that pay homage to classic styles.
Notably, Baltic’s watch movements hail from both Chinese and Japanese origins, showcasing a global influence. These movements are meticulously assembled in France, underscoring the brand’s dedication to precision and quality. Baltic’s watches capture a timeless charm, evoking a sense of nostalgia through their vintage-inspired designs.
Baltic strikes a harmonious balance between embracing vintage aesthetics and presenting fresh interpretations that steer clear of mere repetition. With their international collaborations and assembly in France, Baltic crafts timepieces that not only resonate with enthusiasts but also contribute to the preservation of horological heritage.
12. Cartier
Amid the spotlight on French microbrands, Cartier reigns supreme as the most renowned high-end watchmaker. With a legacy dating back to 1847 when Louis-Francois Cartier founded the brand, this jewelry and watch specialist has been synonymous with crafting exquisite masterpieces for over 175 years. Among their iconic creations, the Cartier Tank stands as a testament to their artistry, characterized by its distinctive rectangular design, graceful proportions, and an Art Deco-inspired dial that has graced red carpets and celebrity galas around the globe. However, Cartier’s bold Santos timepiece has also garnered significant attention in recent times.
Cartier’s journey is marked by a rich history of innovation and craftsmanship, making them a cornerstone of luxury watchmaking. Beyond their acclaimed Tank and Santos models, Cartier boasts a diverse collection that encompasses a wide range of styles, from classic elegance to contemporary flair. Their legacy extends beyond horology, as they continue to leave an indelible mark on the world of haute joaillerie and artistry. Notably, Cartier’s dedication to precision and aesthetics has led to enduring partnerships with esteemed clientele and collaborations with renowned artists, cementing their position as a trailblazer in the realm of luxury watches and beyond.
11. Fugue
Established in 2017, Fugue emerges as a youthful contender in the watchmaking arena. Despite its recent inception, this French brand has rapidly gained prominence, rivaling more established counterparts. What sets Fugue apart is its distinctive approach to design—a departure from convention in favor of embracing independent thought and originality.
A captivating facet of Fugue’s offerings lies in the modularity of their timepieces. Unlike traditional watchmakers, Fugue empowers buyers with the ability to tailor their watches to their preferences, affording them the unique opportunity to even select the watch head, which is distinct from the case itself. This unconventional approach speaks to Fugue’s commitment to providing a personalized experience that extends beyond the norm. The concept of customizability inherent to Fugue’s designs presents a novel appeal, offering potential enthusiasts the prospect of owning a watch that resonates with their individual tastes.
Fugue’s emergence as a fresh and innovative brand is underscored by its departure from conventions and the emphasis they place on individuality. This focus on customization speaks to the evolving preferences of watch enthusiasts who seek distinctive and personal timepieces that transcend the ordinary. As Fugue gains recognition in the horological world, its embrace of uniqueness and innovation paves the way for a new wave of watchmaking possibilities.
10. L. Leroy
Dating back to the Age of Enlightenment, L. Leroy boasts a storied history that traces its origins to 1747 when Basile Le Roy apprenticed in the workshops of master watchmaker Joseph Quétin. The brand’s official establishment came in 1785, perpetuating the legacy of Le Roy’s name.
Notably, L. Leroy stands as one of the most venerable French watchmakers, bridging centuries of craftsmanship. Their collection is replete with high-end chronometers renowned for their unparalleled precision, a testament to their commitment to horological excellence. Within their offerings, exquisite tourbillons take center stage, accompanied by captivating skeleton watches reminiscent of French cathedrals adorned with stained glass windows—true masterpieces meticulously handcrafted in Besançon, France.
L. Leroy’s signature aesthetic extends across their timepieces. Even their dive watches proudly feature Roman numerals, underscoring their dedication to timeless design. Meanwhile, their dress collections are characterized by royal blue dauphine hands and the use of precious metals, lending an air of regal sophistication. A symbol of luxury and artistry, L. Leroy watches hold an undeniable allure for discerning collectors seeking the pinnacle of horological craftsmanship. However, it’s worth noting that indulging in their exceptional creations requires a corresponding investment, as their offerings reflect a commitment to uncompromising quality and heritage.
9. ZRC
Hailing from France, ZRC carries a rich legacy intertwined with its history of collaboration with the French military. Their specialization revolves around a singular type of timepiece: the dive watch. This distinctive focus stems from their roots in the 1960s when they crafted a watch for the French navy. Notably, this iconic timepiece features a distinctive 6 o’clock crown placement, strategically designed to prevent damage and entanglement during underwater operations. Complementing this unique feature is the angular case shape, which sets it apart amidst the diverse landscape of dive watches.
The essence of ZRC’s dive watches embodies a harmonious fusion of military precision and innovative design. Beyond their pragmatic origins, these timepieces encompass a commitment to functionality and aesthetic distinctiveness. ZRC’s legacy within the realm of dive watches is marked by their ability to seamlessly blend history, innovation, and functional requirements, resulting in a timepiece that echoes a heritage of maritime excellence while making a bold statement in the world of horology.
8. Yema
Since its inception in 1948, Yema has emerged as a venerable French watch brand with a captivating history. With a distinct focus on crafting nautical timepieces, Yema’s journey into the realm of horology was marked by innovation and a commitment to durability. Their prowess in producing robust tool watches, designed to withstand the rigors of exploration, has earned them a prominent place in the hearts of adventurers from various walks of life.
However, Yema’s impact goes beyond the confines of watchmaking. Their exceptional quality and dedication have led to prestigious partnerships, including being chosen as the official watch supplier for esteemed institutions like the French Sailing Federation and the French Space Agency. This recognition speaks to the brand’s unwavering commitment to precision and excellence.
7. Alain Silberstein
Renowned as a distinguished French interior decorator and designer, Alain Silberstein has seamlessly translated his creative prowess into the realm of horological design. His eponymous watch brand showcases a unique specialization in collaborating with fellow watchmakers, resulting in captivating timepieces that exude a fusion of artistic ingenuity and mechanical excellence. With a distinct Bauhaus-inspired aesthetic, Silberstein’s watches bear the hallmark of his signature style, resonating with connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.
Alain Silberstein’s creative journey has intersected with acclaimed names in the watchmaking industry, including notable collaborations with brands like MB&F, Louis Erard, and Ressence. His influence extends beyond the boundaries of traditional watch design, infusing each collaboration with an artistic and innovative spirit. Notably, his recent collaboration with fellow French brand Bell & Ross has garnered attention for its unique triptych concept, showcasing the seamless convergence of creative minds within the realm of horology.
As a multi-talented artist and designer, Alain Silberstein’s foray into watchmaking signifies a harmonious blend of artistic expression and technical craftsmanship. His collaborations serve as a testament to the dynamic fusion of creativity and precision that characterizes his contributions to the world of watches.
6. MW & Co.
France, renowned for its elegance and sophistication, also has a penchant for embracing the audacious and extravagant. MW & Co., a distinctive watch brand, exemplifies this blend by seamlessly merging cutting-edge techniques with futuristic aesthetics. Their timepieces, reminiscent of cinematic sci-fi creations, boast impressive 46mm diameters, unique tube-shaped lugs, and intricately perforated cases. Notably, MW & Co. sources a significant portion of their components directly from reputable French manufacturers, ensuring a commitment to quality.
What sets MW & Co. apart is their dedication to exclusivity. Despite the avant-garde design and innovative features, each MW & Co. watch is meticulously crafted in limited quantities. This rarity adds a layer of allure for collectors and enthusiasts seeking unique timepieces that stand out in both style and scarcity. As a result, MW & Co. captures the essence of French flair while pushing the boundaries of watchmaking with their bold and limited-edition creations.
5. Hermès
Hermès, a distinguished luxury label hailing from Paris, boasts a diverse portfolio that extends beyond watches to encompass an array of offerings including apparel, furniture, and even accessories for animals. Within this eclectic range, their watches emerge as an essential facet, showcasing a fusion of creativity and craftsmanship.
In the realm of horology, Hermès presents a captivating spectrum, from the modern and industrial H08 to the timeless elegance of the Slim d’Hermès, and the captivating intricacies of the Arceau complications. One notable example is the Arceau de Temps Voyager, a watch that transcends convention with whimsical fantasy maps adorning its dial, allowing time to orbit the periphery—an enchanting embodiment of France’s allure and ingenuity. As a high-end Parisian brand, Hermès masterfully intertwines the realms of fashion, design, and watchmaking, creating a captivating tapestry of creativity and luxury.
4. Herbelin
Located near the Swiss border, nestled in Charquemont, France, against the picturesque backdrop of the Jura mountains, Herbelin stands as a testament to family legacy in watchmaking. Rooted in history, the company was founded by Michel Herbelin in 1947, embodying the essence of timekeeping craftsmanship.
However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that Herbelin truly soared to prominence with the launch of their iconic Newport Yacht Club timepiece. With an elegant and captivating collection, Herbelin’s watches exude a sense of sophistication that beckons exploration. What sets them apart is their commitment to manual assembly—a testament to their unwavering dedication to precision and meticulous artistry.
The hallmark of Herbelin’s style rests upon their selection of dress watches, characterized by a harmonious blend of classic charm and individuality. While their offerings prominently cater to women, they also extend a welcoming hand to men with timepieces boasting slightly more compact case sizes, a departure from the norm. The allure of Herbelin’s creations lies not only in their aesthetics but in the stories of heritage and craftsmanship that are interwoven into each carefully crafted piece.
3. Merci
Merci, a brand known for its versatile product range including clothing, accessories, and home decor, also offers a unique collection of watches. Their focus lies in simplicity and minimalism, often embracing the aesthetics of field watches. Despite being relatively new to watchmaking, their debut timepiece, the LMM-01, launched in 2017, quickly gained recognition among collectors and enthusiasts, solidifying their reputation in the industry.
Expanding their watch selection, Merci now offers various iterations of the LMM-01, featuring Swiss mechanical and quartz movements. Remarkably, these watches cater to different styles, from field and military designs to dress and sporty options, making them adaptable to a diverse range of preferences and occasions.
2. Le Forban Sécurité Mer
France’s renowned coastlines, stretching from the iconic French Riviera in the south to the English Channel in the north, have earned global recognition. This maritime influence has also shaped the country’s esteemed navy and maritime industries. Le Forban Sécurité Mer stands as a watch brand committed to offering sailors, whether military personnel or amateur enthusiasts, timepieces perfectly suited for life at sea. Drawing inspiration from heritage designs dating back to 1969, Le Forban’s contemporary watches, such as the Brestoise model, elegantly blend modernity with nautical tradition.
1. Bell & Ross
Founded in Paris in 1992, Bell & Ross stands as a relatively young yet influential player in the watchmaking realm. Despite its short history, the brand has swiftly gained global recognition for its distinctive timepiece designs, drawing inspiration from the analog flight instrument dials found in airplane cockpits. Notably, the iconic BR03 exemplifies Bell & Ross’s distinctive style, boasting a square case adorned with oversized Arabic numerals, a design that’s instantly recognizable and cherished by watch enthusiasts worldwide.
While renowned for their pilot watches, Bell & Ross offers a diverse array of collections catering to various styles and preferences. Beyond aviation-inspired timepieces, the brand presents diver’s watches, elegant dress watches, tourbillons, and even traditional round-shaped cases. Their repertoire extends beyond tool watches; Bell & Ross showcases refined collections suitable for formal occasions and business settings. A testament to their creativity, the brand also features the unique Skull line, which pays tribute to World War II airborne troops with its distinctive designs.
Conclusion
Exploring the world of French watch brands opens up a universe of craftsmanship, innovation, and style. Whether you’re drawn to classic designs or avant-garde aesthetics, the French watchmaking industry offers something for everyone. Each brand on this list brings its own story to the table, adding to the vibrant tapestry of horology.