Mad auction: Derek Pratt’s Oval Pocket Watch sold for 3 millions
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Phillips Reloaded, record! This unique, historic No.1 platinum pocket tourbillon by Derek Pratt for Urban Jürgensen und Sønner had even the most discerning collectors in a frenzy. The watch, estimated at CHF 1 million, was part of the fascinating and secret collection of world expert Helmut Crott. A name now worth its weight in gold!…
Decease of Jean-Pierre Hagmann, father of the Star Caliber
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
An unreplaceable page has just been turned, a crucial chapter has ended. Fortunately, he began to be recognized during his lifetime, and the inevitable tributes to come will add their share of eternity. Rest in peace, Jean-Pierre. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief Follow JSH on Linkedin – Facebook – Insta…
Textual Story, 10 years of fiction format in 2024
Lee Warrien | TàG Press +41, News Agency
Watchmaking, medias. The “textual story“, which casts a watchmaking object in didactic fiction, appeared on October 10, 2014 under the writing of specialist journalist Joël A. Grandjean. It is still going on today in the online magazine Swiss Watch Passport (by JSH). Lee Warrien, JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s Columnist Insta SWP | Insta…
‘WhoAreU’ interview with Philippe Delhotal, creative director at Hermès Horloger
Amandine
My name is Amandine, I am 12 years old and keen on watchmaking. Since the age of 7, when asked what job I want to do, I answer “watchmaker-designer at Bulgari”… In the meantime, I interview people in the industry. Let’s see today who is Hermès Horloger creative director, Philippe Delhotal. By Amandine, the youngest…
World Watch Day: Unity is strength
Asha Shaniah Gibson
Editorial note: ‘ProWatCH, Culture & Savoirs Horlogers Suisses’ and ‘JSH Archives & Patrimoine’ invite all players they have contacted between 2020 and 2025 to join the initiative launched in Geneva on 7 April 2025. A Shaniah Asha Gibson’s selection / @TRP, Cabinet d’écritures et d’influence Insta | Linkedin | Facebook | Insta JSH | Insta SWP | S’abonner à JSH World Watch Day New Initiative’s press…
Coffee talk with Pierre Maudet: a Geneva watchmaking museum?
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Pierre Maudet returns to the ballots. Not a political party, just a movement. Just like a watch movement that puts together and on stage components from different horizons, “Libertés et Justice Sociale” (List 4) is launching a campaign for the Cantonal Parliament of Geneva . Joël A. Grandjean, JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s Editor…
Ramon Iso, Diamonds, Precious stones and Porsche steering wheels
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Featured in Legends magazine. In the night, the only recognisable headlights opposite are those of a Porsche. Ramon Iso has become a prince of gem-setting and diamonds in the heart of Swiss watchmaking excellence, and his eyes are still filled with wonder of childhood. Joël A. Grandjean / JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s Publisher…
Figaro newspaper article: watchmaking, a world day?
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
The concept of a “World Watchmaking Day” is in the headlines thanks to a brand new article in Le Figaro. It reminds me of this topic posted on October 10, 2020 at 10:10 (!!!) on the bloghorloger.ch (now Swiss Watch Passport). Joël A. Grandjean, JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s editor in chief & publisher…
Elizabeth Hiscott: from watchmaking texts to the status of artist in Berlin
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Having translated numerous articles for the watchmaking press, a British English copywriter uses the industry as a springboard to secure her artist status in Berlin and now embarks on her first film script! A review of the life of Elizabeth Hiscott… By Anna Aznaour / Independent journalist, member of the editorial board of JSH Magazine Write…
Beyer launches the “Rolex Certified Pre-Owned” program
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
The world’s oldest watch shop is now able to offer second-hand Rolex watches with a certificate of authenticity and a warranty. With this programme, Beyer and Rolex are providing for greater security in the booming second-hand watch market. Selected press release by Joël A. Grandjean JSH & Swiss Watch Passport (by JSH)’s Editor in Chief…
The Horopedia Foundation chaired by Philippe Dufour
Asha Shaniah Gibson
JSH Magazine has announced it in its EPHJ 2022 issue: The Horopedia Foundation is launching a watchmaking “wikipedia” in Geneva on 30 March 2022. In the presence of Philippe Dufour (independent watchmaker), Dr. Helmut Crott (watch expert), André Colard (co-founder of the EPHJ), and Marc André Deschoux from WatchesTV. To read it again… Une sélection…
Journalist Charlotte Ollivier joins the JSH 1876’s editorial team
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Journalist, Japanese and English speaking, she is a writer from Alsace and would like to move there thanks to work opportunities. She is part of the JSH swiss horological jounrnal’s redaction, and of the bilingual magazine about watchmaking, Swiss Watch Passport (by JSH). Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief Linkedin –…
EPHJ 2019: Singer 100 years with a book
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
“Few are aware of the amount of skill and ability that goes on in the silence of the workshops,” explains Jean-Claude Engisch, father of Joris, the current director of Singer dials, in the 100th anniversary book . Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief Follow on Linkedin – Facebook – Insta JSH…
Gaïa 2021: the Prize of the Prizes, Carole’s tears…
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
An unprecedented conjunction of coincidences brought a unique breath of bliss to the 2021 ceremony. Like an improbable planets alignment above the venerable MIH’s Hans Erni Hall, there were tinglings with wonders. By Joël A. Grandjean / JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport Publisher & Editor in chief Jury member of the Gaïa Award Insta…
‘No branding’ trend: Christian Etienne, the restorative label
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Appeared in the Journal Suisse d’Horlogerie JSH®. Was he dreaming of a collection? From Porrentruy, this expert in antique watch restoration is establishing a name for himself by refurbishing a plethora of timepieces for passionate collectors or simple watch enthusiasts. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief & publisher Suivre sur Linkedin…
Between Elton John and Bono, Boris Petitpierre and his set of watchmaking tools
Albert J. de Buttes-LaCôte
As head of his eponymous company, which has been added like a manufacturing gem to the industrial necklace of Acrotec Group, Boris Petitpierre in Cortaillod (NE) is still not believing it! Albert-J. de Buttes-LaCôte / TàG Press +41 (News Agency) Insta SWP | Insta JSH® | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin Par quel miracle, les…
Fanny Queloz: craftsmanship at Concepto
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Recipient of the Veuve Clicquot Bold Future Award 2022, former elite sportswoman Fanny Queloz was a panellist at the Arc Horloger roundtable of the Festival Suisse de l’Horlogerie 2024. She is an expert engraver and entrepreneur. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief Follow JSH on Linkedin – Facebook – Insta JSH…
Nathalie: her talent of anglage and her watchmakers’ magnifying glasses
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
In 2014, JSH, the Swiss Watchmaking Journal, devoted a two-page tribute to her mastery of hand anglage. Today, in addition to her art craft, which requires infinite patience and good eyesight, Nathalie Jean-Louis is all over the place. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s editor in chief & publisher Insta SWP |…
The Swiss press reveals Amandine to the masses
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Amandine, the world’s youngest watch columnist, whose “WhoAreU” interviews are published on Swiss Watch Passport (by JSH) online magazine, is on the cover of the 20 Minutes national media. She is also featured in the latest issue of JSH Magazine. By Joël A. Grandjean JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s Publisher and Editor in Chief…
Major watch maker Henri Grandjean back to life thanks to after-sales service
Public Relations @TRP Cabinet
The Association “Henri Grandjean, Valeurs & Héritage” has achieved a premiere: by assigning the after-sales service of a bygone brand to one of the 21st century’s most talented watchmaker-restorers, The organization enshrines a major 18th-century watchmaker’s legacy. @TRP, Textes & Relations, Production, Writings and influence consultancy Follow on Facebook & Instagram Communiqué de PressePress ReleaseToday’s…
In 1941, Universal in JSH: new factory in Les Pont-de-Martel
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Just as the brand has been bought by Breitling, the Swiss watchmaking journal JSH digs up a historical treasure: this article appeared in its Basel Fair special edition of January-February 1941. A delightful reread… Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief & Publisher Follow JSH on Linkedin – Facebook – Insta JSH…
Positive Coating, visual watchmaking poetry
Joel Grammson
Ultra-technical expertise sometimes generates poetry… To say that a blue is desaturated, smoky, klein, seram, dove or turquin, is to treat words as if they were raw ore crossed by emotions and polished by real life. Joël Grammson, JSH & Swiss Watch Passport (by JSH) Columnist Insta | Linkedin | Facebook | Insta JSH | Insta SWP | S’abonner à JSH Moonboards 2023 Also “this…
JSH on TV, in Rolex ‘s boss’s portrait
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
“The man who whispers in Donald Trump’s ear!” Thus begins the portrait of Jean-Frédéric Dufour, CEO of Rolex, on Swiss national television. Suddenly, in the middle of a report by Nicolas Rossé, the JSH from EPHJ 2024 takes center stage! Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief and publisher Follow us on…
The COSC establishes a new standard in Swiss chronometry
Asha Shaniah Gibson
“Today, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the ISO 3159 standard, the COSC opens a new chapter, one that looks firmly toward the future” according to the official press release issued on 12 February 2026. The ‘COSC Excellence Chronometer’ has now been launched. A Shaniah Asha Gibson’s selection / @TRP, Cabinet d’écritures et…
Parallel times by Claude Meylan
Albert J. de Buttes-LaCôte
From his Montreux workshop, Pascal Bettex has been crafting his works over time. Always featuring movement served up in dreams and a playful spirit that illuminates wonders, then suddenly, a Claude Meylan watch floating weightlessly. Albert-J. de Buttes-LaCôte / 1876 News Agency (succ. TàG Press +41) Insta SWP | Insta JSH® | Facebook | Twitter |…
Career: Amande, young polymechanic
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
A future in watchmaking, working with it or for it, is not just a man’s choice. At a time when the industry is facing a shortage of vocations, Amande Berclaz is a shining example to follow… Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch ‘s Editor in Chief Follow us on Linkedin – Facebook – Insta…
11-year-old Amandine: our columnist in the New York Times!
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
This 11-year-old’s buzz, which is rooted in her passion for watchmaking, received a huge media boost with almost a full-page article in the New York Times. A pool of 10 million subscribers thus received on September 8, 2022, a fresh wave of watchmaking with disarming naturalness.. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch editor’s in…
The Watchmaking Metropolis hosts the Swiss Watchmaking Festival
Asha Shaniah Gibson
The 4th edition of the Swiss Watchmaking Festival (FHS) is set to become a long-standing event in La Chaux-de-Fonds. This highly cultural festival brings together artisans, specialised schools, creators, institutions and watch brands. The 2026 edition will echo the MIH Museum. A Shaniah Asha Gibson’s selection / @TRP, Writing & Common Sens PR Cabinet Pictures…
2010: the facial oscillating rotor, already invented in 1995…!
Bloggy Tag
In March 2008, bloghorloger.ch tracked down patent No. CH 685363, issued on 30 November 1995 and relating to the first self-winding timepiece with a facial rotor (not to be confused with the Perrelet double-rotor). The technical study and production of an initial functional prototype were entrusted to watchmaker Jean-Claude Nicolet (winner of the first Gaïa…
Seen on TV: Joël A. Grandjean from JSH, featured on the telenews
Lee Warrien | TàG Press +41, News Agency
Invited by Viviane Gabriel on her television news program alongside RTS journalist Fabiano Citroni, author of the investigation into “time clocked toilet breaks,” journalist Joël A. Grandjean discussed the invention of the first time clock in 1907 (read about it in this 2024 JSH edition). Replay… Lee Warrien, JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s Columnist…
Henri Grandjean Magician, The Floating Triple-Axis Tourbillon
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
In this video, we explore the Henri Grandjean & Cie Magician, a spectacular luxury watch featuring a floating triple-axis tourbillon. Discover its design, movement, case materials, complications, craftsmanship, and ultra-luxury price. This watch is a true masterpiece of Swiss haute horology and mechanical art. SabMinute Youtube Channel
In the midst of the Festival, “Emmanuelle Welfelé, enamel and miniature painting”
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Festival Suisse d’Horlogerie 2025: because she almost always “liked” my posts on Linkedin and Instagram, she deserved to be featured in the Journal Suisse d’Horlogerie JSH. Thanks to the third edition of this now unmissable event, I finally got to meet her in person! Joël A. Grandjean / JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s editor…
Expert Carmelo Armeli: counterfeiters’ terror
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Self-employed since 2018, this low-profile expert, one of the best counterfeit detectors in the world, has a long list of prestigious clients. Meet him at one of the watch markets he organizes. Joël A. Grandjean / JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s Editeur in chief & Publisher Insta SWP | Insta JSH® | Facebook | Twitter…
Safes never die! Jean Ferner’s lair
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
There is magic in this improbable universe at Crêt du Locle inhabited by safes. Certainly the biggest collection of safes in Switzerland, and maybe even in the world? A nightmare place for burglars…. By Ollivier Broto / TàG Press +41 (News Agency) Read the article in JSH® Magazine, issue #01-2021. Subscribe This place is a…
Short Supply Routes? Overview with the FH President, Jean-Daniel Pasche
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
{Published in the JSH Special Issue ‘Short Supply Routes’} As the term industrial begins to flourish with common names related to recycling, environmental ethics and carbon footprint measurement, the question of standardisation or regulation arises… Interview. Interview by Joël A. Grandjean / JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport Publisher & Editor in Chief Insta SWP…
Pentagonal rupturist design, the new Tzoumy Geneva watches on Kickstarter
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Nothing new under the sun in the watch design scene. Except for a particularly wearable pentagonal style created by the Geneva watchmaker Yvan Monnet. An affordable Swiss Made watch for wrists that resist mainstream conformity… By Joël A. Grandjean, editor in chief & publisher of Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch & JSH Magazine Insta SWP | Insta JSH® |…
Watchmaking cutlery began in Neuchâtel, at Les Halles
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
The ‘terroir’ approaches are made for getting along, and so are those that combine craftsmanship. Watchmaking and cutlery, cousins and accomplices. In Neuchâtel, Place des Halles, a knife that’s creating a buzz and… the Watch Cafés. To kick things off! Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief Linkedin – Facebook – Insta…
Stéphane Cornioley, watch dials and virtuosities
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Since the age of 5, he who became administrative manager of “Les Cadraniers de Genève SA” has been blowing on a flute. Then a clarinet, and finally a saxophone. But his dream was to dabble with the microphone, and to be a Rock singer. Joël A. Grandjean / JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s Editor…
Amazing: it was Louis Moinet who invented the chronograph!
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
March 21, 2013 (first posted). Incredible! Imagine if a video was released of a man walking on the moon ten years before Neil Armstrong and that the scientists of Houston were on these images talking to each other through iPhones! The news would be quite disturbing. The revelation made today in Neuchâtel is shaking up…
A historic TV moment: Rolex boss filmed and interviewed
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Media premiere: Jean-Frédéric Dufour speaks on behalf of Rolex on the TV evening news! Thanks to his report on Georges Dubois, an almost 103-year-old watchmaker who worked with Hans Wilsdorf, TV journalist Nicolas Rossé has just achieved the unthinkable! Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief Suivre sur Linkedin – Facebook –…
Alatron, mural, secretive and omnipresent
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
The history of this family company can be traced back to the heyday of the Messe Basel, and is still to be found on the most contemporary, trendiest and most popular walls. And even on the walls of factories. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief Follow us on Linkedin – Facebook…
History of watch design: an espresso with Xavier Perrenoud
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Three never-before-seen images in this 2013 interview: as part of a research project for ECAL, the University of Art and Design in Lausanne, the founder of Atelier XJC, in La Chaux-de-Fonds, explores his profession’s roots. Interview by Joël A. Grandjean JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s Publisher & Editor in chief Insta SWP | Insta JSH®…
Henri Grandjean & Cie unveils “Magician”
Asha Shaniah Gibson
Henri Grandjean & Cie unveils ‘Magician’ – a collection that establishes its place in the contemporary world of Swiss watchmaking excellence. A truly unique approach, far beyond a nostalgic reinterpretation of the past, this first mysterious tri-axial tourbillon embodies the living continuation of an intellectual and technical heritage established in the 19th century. A Shaniah…
Xavier Dietlin’s furtive “Raptor Shield”
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
First published in the JSH Magazine: “He has been living with his famous Raptors for 20 years. In his showroom, he tests them, makes them reliable, and challenges them. Today, he is bringing out their best. Miniaturized, his magical system can fit into a case…” Lorétan Khipass, 876 News Agency (Anc. TàG Press +41)’s journalist…
Dr. Helmut Crott: Horological auctions owe him their hundreds of millions
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Although less well known than Antiquorum founder Osvaldo Patrizzi, expert collector Dr. Helmut Crott is, like Patrizzi, the forerunner of worldwide watch auctions. We owe him the first thematic auction dedicated exclusively to A. Lange & Söhne. It was in Germany, in Munich. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch editor in chief Follow me…
Rally: Gazelles are looking for sponsorship!
Joel Grammson
[published in end of 2024 JSH] Sheeba Ramseier has already found her first sponsor! It is Mike Nussbaumer, her boss at AdMN-Assist, who will give her time off in 2026 so that she and her teammate can shine on the slopes of Morocco. Joël Grammson, JSH & Swiss Watch Passport (by JSH)’s Journalist Insta | Linkedin | Facebook | Insta JSH | Insta…
At the Festival Suisse de l’Horlogerie: Laurent Jolliet, Switzerland’s last chain-maker!
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Live from EPHJ’s Exhibition in 2019. Is he a dying species? There is no longer any certified training for his profession, neither in Switzerland nor in France. Portrait of an endearing figure who, in his own way, embodies the missing element of an industry that gargles with handmade products. By Emmanuel Alder / JSH Magazine &…
2023 EPHJ: An espresso with the founders of the exhibition, André Colard and Olivier Saenger
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
The next EPHJ will be from Tuesday 6 to Friday 9 June 2023. Discreet, little interested in being in the limelight, these two are nevertheless key figures in the world of exhibitions. It is sometimes necessary to shake them up a bit to get an interview. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s…
Mineral glass, the last wizard
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
His craft is under threat, and the material he works with is becoming more and more elusive. Christian Calas is looking forward to retirement, and would like to pass on his know-how. Industry’s biggest names are getting involved. Emmanuel Alder / JSH Magazine & TàG Press +41’s indépendant columnist Write to him | Insta SWP…
GenevaWorld 2026, Independent Guide: Over 250 Brands
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
This independent guide, ‘GenevaWorld 2026, is the ’Watch Passport‘ for the brands exhibiting in Geneva from April 13 to 20, 2026: GPS links, official websites, and the “Swiss made” indication! Published primarily for suppliers—often overlooked on “guest lists”—it is clearly a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts! Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s Editor In…
The Cluses watchmaking and turning museum
Charlotte Ollivier
First floor. Locate at 100 place du 11 novembre in Cluses, in Haute-Savoie, a daily shuttles from Geneva. At 45 minutes from Annecy and at 30 minutes from Chamonix, free parkings around. Charlotte Ollivier / JSH 1876 News’s journalist Insta Ch. O. | Linkedin | Facebook | Insta JSH | Insta SWP | JSH’s Subscription At first, a watch factory then a…
The truth according to ChatGPT, it’s quite scary!
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
I did an experiment: I questioned this “prototype conversational agent.” Does it know about the Swiss Watch Passport? His answer astounded me! Not only does it claim to know, but it invents a truth out of nothing. Worrying, indeed detrimental! Joël A. Grandjean, JSH & Swiss Watch Passport (by JSH) Editor in Chief Insta | Linkedin | Facebook | Insta JSH | Insta SWP | S’abonner…
Bennahmias speaks out in favor of suppliers and… of Swiss Made
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
He is a regular of verbal punchlines! With his leather jacket, he sets the record straight, he turns up the heat and becomes the spokesman for Swiss Made. And he’s throwing down the hammer, taking advantage of the podium provided by the Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix ceremony where he was just awarded the supreme distinction,…
The Dufour Foundation: donation of a scanner to the Vallée de Joux
Asha Shaniah Gibson
The Philippe and Elisabeth Dufour Foundation is donating a scanner to the Vallée Hospital. Although this region has a worldwide reputation thanks to its watchmaking industry, it is struggling to maintain its health infrastructure and public services. Press release selected by Joël A. Grandjean / @TRP, Public Relations Cabinet Insta | Linkedin | Facebook | Insta JSH | Insta SWP | S’abonner à JSH The…
Xavier Comtesse, JSH contributor and visionary leader
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
He is an honorary contributor to the Swiss watchmaking magazine JSH, in particular with his “Carte Blanche” devoted to the exhibition Coco Chanel-Picasso, held in Madrid, as well as an active member of the Agefi editorial team. Joël A. Grandjean / JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s Editor in Chief & Publisher Insta SWP | Insta…
Tailor-made watchmaking training for collectors and companies
Albert J. de Buttes-LaCôte
While running her own business creating watch casings, Angélique Chappuis is also involved in teaching future watch designers in La Chaux-de-Fonds. And is developing watchmaking culture courses. Albert-J. de Buttes-LaCôte / JSH 1876 (News Agency) Insta SWP | Insta JSH® | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin Aesthete, creative and intuitive, Angélique Chappuis ‘dresses’ movements or…
June 2024, Journal Suisse d’Horlogerie JSH 148th year, EPHJ issue
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
The specified book id does not exist. Magazine distribution, June to December 2024.
Valérien Jaquet from Concepto Manufacture: “premises enlargements and records”
Albert J. de Buttes-LaCôte
The monumental antique clock that greets the visitor announces the tone. Without however revealing the topicality: an extension of more than 1800 square metres and a Bulgari record that is a buzz around the world. Read this in printed form in the Swiss watchmaking journal, JSH 1876 (EPHJ). Albert J. de Buttes-LaCôte, JSH Magazine &…
How Geneva buried its world unique watch museum
Bloggy Tag
{Published on 20 December 2011} Genevanities. At a time when a remarkable watchmaking exhibition was transforming the Rath Museum into a showcase of “Gold and Enamel Treasures” until April 29, 2012 (acquire the catalog), just to finally realize the richness and quality of this exceptional heritage, it is good to reread page 23 of the…
Lady Tortue, so very feminine
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Is it still possible to manufacture a pure ladies’ watch? Is this still possible without falling into the eternal so-called female reductions of male models? Women know what they want, and even better, what they don’t want. And for Pia de Chefdebien, what women desire, God ordains! Joël A. Grandjean, JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch…
In Saint-Imier, the Froidevaux group’s steel
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
His CDH20.20 steel releases so little nickel that it cannot be allergenic. When it comes to sharing his knowledge of steelmaking, Henri Machwirth combines his specialist skills with a hefty dose of passion. Interview appeared in the Swiss watchmaking journal JSH, EPHJ 2022 edition. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s Editor in chief &…
Marton Radkai, Journalist and word wizard
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Marton Radkai has been a loyal contributor to the Journal Suisse d’Horlogerie JSH Magazine for years. He wears a number of hats. First and foremost, he is a dedicated and independent journalist, editor of Wristwatch Annual, an annual publication on watches published by Abbeville Press, New York. He is also a top-notch translator from French…
‘WhoAreU’ interview: CEO of de Bethune, Pierre Jacques
Amandine
My name is Amandine, I am 11 years old. I am keen on watchmaking and, since the age of 7, when asked what job I want to do, I answer “watchmaker-designer at Bulgari”. In the meantime, I do interviews with people involved in the industry. By Amandine, the youngest Swiss Watch Passport columnist Portrait Amandine | Insta…
A parallel life: the Grönefelds, clock winders
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
[Appeared in JSH, EPHJ 2024 edition] Tim and Bart, the Grönefeld brothers—watchmakers from northern Europe—are an independent brand steeped in Swiss tradition, tracing its roots back to a legend that began in Oldenzaal in 1896 with the birth of Gerhard Louis Grönefeld. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief Follow us on…
SSC Journée d’Etudes: expresso avec Michele Fazzone
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Comme le veulent les statuts de cette vénérable société fondée en 1924 et dont le journal suisse d’horlogerie JSH fut l’organe officiel durant plusieurs décennies, la présidence change chaque trois ans. Rencontre avec le président sortant. Joël A. Grandjean, Rédacteur en chef JSH & Swiss Watch Passport (by JSH) Insta | Linkedin | Facebook | Insta JSH | Insta SWP | S’abonner à JSH Interview parue dans…
LVMH Group: the Arnault children in control
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
What if Julien Tornare (photo below), the current CEO of Zenith, were to take over the management of TAG Heuer vacated by the departure for Bulgari of the almost thirty-year-old Frédéric Arnault, the second youngest son of Bernard Arnault? Joël A. Grandjean, JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’ Editor & Chief, Publisher Insta SWP |…
‘WhoAreU’ interview: Jean-Christophe Babin, Bulgari Group’s CEO
Amandine
My name is Amandine, I am 11 years old. I am keen on watchmaking and, since the age of 7, when asked what job I want to do, I answer “watchmaker-designer at Bulgari”… By Amandine, the youngest Swiss Watch Passport columnist Portrait Amandine | Insta SWP | Insta JSH® | Insta Amandine | Facebook | Twitter |…
RoyalPop since 1979, the ‘museum truth’ that tickles collectors
✍ Joel A. Grandjean
Beyond the current “AP x Swatch” buzz, with the perspective befitting the oldest Swiss watchmaking journal — celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2026 — the Journal Suisse d’Horlogerie JSH reminds us that the bold Audemars Piguet had already dared to release a pop version of its Royal Oak as early as 1979… Joël A. Grandjean,…
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The front page of the very first Swiss Watch Journal (Journal Suisse d’Horlogerie, JSH) published in July 1876
March 21, 2013 (first posted). Incredible! Imagine if a video was released of a man walking on the moon ten years before Neil Armstrong and that the scientists of Houston were on these images talking to each other through iPhones! The news would be quite disturbing. The revelation made today in Neuchâtel is shaking up the entire watchmaking industry in equal measure. Ten years before the invention of Nicolas Mathieu…
The Thyssen Museum of Madrid presents until the 15th of January 2023 an exhibition exploring the relationship between these two 20th century creative geniuses from 1915 to 1925. By Xavier Comtesse / Special contributor JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport Insta SWP | Insta JSH® | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin| See portrait Xavier Comtesse | Tickets pour l’ExpoArticle JSH en PDFMany portraits of Picasso’s first wife, the beautiful Russian ballerina…
Timm Delfs, a specialist journalist and sundial expert, writes in English and German for national publishing institutions and has been a regular contributor to the Swiss watch journal JSH since the 1990s. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief Follow us Linkedin – Facebook – Insta JSH – Insta SWP – JSH’s Subscription Born in Basel, Timm Delfs still lives and works there today. He spreads his…
Together with the Swiss Chronometry Society (SSC), the Swiss watchmaking journal JSH® (since 1876) is issuing a special edition devoted to the last International Congress of Chronometry at EPFL. And also to the next 2023 SSC events. By @TRP, Textes & Relations, Production – PR Cabinet Follow on Instagram & Facebook Afterworks RegistrationMichele Fazzone, current President of the Swiss Chronometry Society (SSC) (2021-2023), will elect his successor who will be in…
August 2013. The company, a privileged partner of the watchmaking and jewelry industry, is developing SAP Business All-in-One, a solution that meets the high requirements of this sector. Among the many services that Cisel Informatique SA can provide, there is the management of orders for pure precious metal and alloying, the registration of scrap and waste, and the recycling of fine metals. This is just one example of the services…
{Posted on bloghorloger.ch on 16 November 2007} Pamp is both a watch brand and a gold refinery located in Castel San Pietro, Ticino. Both entities are under the umbrella of the MKS Finances group, which is headquartered just off the Promenade Saint-Antoine in Geneva. The refinery celebrated its thirty years of existence in Gstaad on 30 September 2006, inviting its 250 most important clients, bankers, traders, state representatives, etc. MKS…
The ‘terroir’ approaches are made for getting along, and so are those that combine craftsmanship. Watchmaking and cutlery, cousins and accomplices. In Neuchâtel, Place des Halles, a knife that’s creating a buzz and… the Watch Cafés. To kick things off! Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief Linkedin – Facebook – Insta JSH – Insta SWP – JSH’s Subscription If you look at this full-handled “Laguiole en…
{News published in 2009} Walter Lange, founder of A. Lange & Söhne celebrated his 85th birthday. When asked what his very first watch was, he answered “A Cyma”. I have always thought that this current desire to separate haute-horlogerie from the other was a mistake. It is unnatural. Swiss watchmaking history, whose upward excellence remains its best ambassador, has never ceased to be nourished by mass production watchmaking, by volumes.…
From the positive shadow to the GPHG’s spotlights
At a time when his sister Ophélie is officially joining the senior management team of their family business, Lucien Steinmann is bringing Positive Coating‘s signature colours to the forefront. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief Follow us Linkedin – Facebook – Insta JSH – Insta SWP – Subscribe to JSH Read also (in French) Observing certain pieces we have worked on being selected or winning awards…
Textual story. Narrative of a historical sheet, the Neprosolar
Up to 2025, I’m back! Rescued from a trip to the dump, along with thousands of other small sheets belonging to a fascinating archive, I survived the Basel Fair! My year was 1976. What was my matter? The Neprosolar, one of the very first solar watches. Back to the future! Textual Strory: Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’s editor in chief Follow on Linkedin – Facebook – Insta JSH…
Coffee talk with Pierre Maudet: a Geneva watchmaking museum?
Pierre Maudet returns to the ballots. Not a political party, just a movement. Just like a watch movement that puts together and on stage components from different horizons, “Libertés et Justice Sociale” (List 4) is launching a campaign for the Cantonal Parliament of Geneva . Joël A. Grandjean, JSH® Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport’s Editor in chief Insta SWP | Insta JSH® | Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin See alsoBecause…
Off-centered watches that follow your gaze
October 28, 2009. Vacheron Constantin is awarded the Watch of the Year prize, conceived more than 15 years ago by the two co-founders of Montres Passion magazine, Kenan Tegin and Joël A. Grandjean. The model awarded Historiques American 1921, shows an asymmetry facilitating the reading of the time and borrowed from the history of the brand. Seductive design effect An American customer, during the Roaring Twenties, would have expressed…
Code 41, the irritating lessons giver: false gurus are out!
Unashamedly spitting in the soup that has fed you? A former watch designer for brands that have added some prestige to his CV, Claudio d’Amore, founder of Code 41, exists by calling others bandits. By Joël A. Grandjean, Editor in Chief JSH Magazine & Swiss Watch Passport In “It’s going to get out” mode, the designer turns himself into a community builder and, to get there faster, kicks…
“Moses, one of the rarest automaton watches
This rare timepiece, proposed by the collector Dr. Helmut Crott, embodies the quintessence of the watch’s complications, the good taste of Empress Eugenie and the top level of Geneva’s early 19th-century craftsmanship. Auction in Geneva on May 11th 2024. Joël A. Grandjean, JSH Magazine & Swiss-Watch-Passport.ch’ editor in chief Follow on Linkedin – Facebook – Insta JSH – Insta SWP – Subscription JSH Place bidCalled “Breathing life into Machines“, this…
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“WhoAreU” Interview: Bergeon CEO Vladimir Zennaro
My name is Amandine, I am 11 years old. I am keen on watchmaking and, since the age of 7,…
Tavannes Watch is the biological father of the Chronomat
Astonishing! This Tavannes Watch model from 1946, called Chronomat, looks very similar to the Breitling Chronomat reference 769. So suppose…
Akyalis, the microfiber breakthrough
January 2013. The press release has just been issued. In the world of ultimate care for precious objects, watches or…
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Nicolas Commergnat, the visionary watchmaker: holy Grail between watchmaking History and Big Data
Time Matters: Alexis Sarkissian of Totally Worth It: “Watch Distribution great again”
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About North America, including the Caribbean, he knows all the players, all the features and even, from the handlebars of his motorcycle, most of the side roads. His latest conquests?…
