CHARLES GIRARDIER

A Geneva legacy reborn in a collection created in the grand tradition of high watchmaking.

Charles Girardier makes complicated watches with the ancestral techniques of the Métiers d’Art – literally ‘art crafts’. The fertile principles that led to the brand’s creation are now being applied for the first time to a men’s watch. Blending history, watchmaking and exceptional artisanship, the 1809 Chromium Grey 41 mm and the 1809 Dark Red 37 mm channel a sense of refinement that is both visible and discreet. Visible by the use of precious materials and sophisticated techniques, discreet by a masterful execution the detail of which becomes clear only up close.

Created in 2018 by Geneva-based Patrick A. Ulm, the brand resurrects the work of Charles Girardier L’Aîné (the Elder). In 1809, this Genevan was awarded the title of Master Watchmaker and was already producing elaborate pocket watches with dials featuring finely painted scenes and miniature automatons.

It was when Patrick A. Ulm discovered one of his creations in England, in the Agatha Christie Museum, that he began the research that led to the creation of Charles Girardier.

At the Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix 2020, the Tourbillon Signature Mystérieuse ‘Fleur de Sel’ (Salt Flower) won the 1st prize in the Ladies' Complication category – it was Charles Girardier’s first watch and first public appearance. Today, its progeny is being unveiled at the WATCHPRO Salon: the 1809 Chromium Grey 41 mm and the 1809 Dark Red 37 mm, both combining an enamel dial, a flying tourbillon and the Signature Mystérieuse.

Charles Girardier watches are characterised by their Signature Mystérieuse.

A direct tribute to the eponymous founder, the stylised initials take on a moveable form, patented by Charles Girardier. In the medallion located at noon on the dial, two mobile elements turn freely on themselves. They draw an intertwined C and G, which Charles Girardier chose to fashion in gold. As the name does not appear on the dial, they in fact brand the piece. At the client's request, the Signature Mystérieuse can be crafted entirely bespoke to reflect his or her particular desires.