Know-how

Which French watch makes a true statement of style?

Which French watch makes a true statement of style?

Legitimized by its historic houses and re-enchanted by young brands, French watchmaking is on the rise. The secret? Unbridled creativity and that famous "French-touch" that makes us dream so much. Devastated by the quartz crisis in the 80s, French watchmaking experienced a new momentum. Driven by historic houses and passionate young entrepreneurs, the sector has been revitalizing itself over the past ten years. So much so that France is one of the world leaders in watchmaking, ranking 5th among watch exporting countries. But how can this success be explained? Compared to the 30 billion dollars that Swiss exports weigh, representing such a small share of the market – 410 million in turnover in 2023 – is a godsend: no pressure and a freedom of tone that allows you to stand out from the Swi...

Watch movements explained

Watch movements explained

It may seem strange to watch lovers, but many rookies are now interested in watches and want to find out more so that they can make informed purchases that suit their lifestyle. Starting with watch movements will allow me to continue with watch complications in another article. Watch movements are the part of watchmaking that enables a watch to function. There are several types of watch movement, each with its own features and advantages. The mechanical movement is the oldest type of watch movement. It uses a spring that must be wound manually or automatically to keep the clock running. The mechanical movement is considered to be the most precise and the hardest to build, but it is also the one that requires the most maintenance. It is important to find out about the power reserve, which r...

We've already covered watch movements, which you now master perfectly! Over time and with the acquisition of new pieces, the watch becomes much more than just a timepiece or a stylish accessory. As they gain confidence and accumulate technical knowledge, collectors will naturally gravitate towards models with complications. Complications are, of course, primarily associated with mechanical watches. Isn't a mechanical watch already a complex object in itself? "Certainly not," watchmakers will retort from behind their workbenches. With their focus on the infinitely small, these "mad scientists" continuously push boundaries. Because, beyond its aesthetic and practical qualities, a timepiece is first and foremost a technical feat. Designing a watch that tells time through a mechanical moveme...

He was destined for a brilliant financial career, but his passion for jewellery and love for exceptional gemstones made him one of the youngest jewellers of his generation. Grandson of the famous "Pearl Doctor", Adi Al Fardan shared his father's passion for fine jewellery very early on. Alongside his studies, he dedicated all his free time to the development of the family business Al Fardan Jewellery, before creating his own company: Adi Al Fardan Jewellery. Trained by the best artisans around the world, Adi Al Fardan has the sharp eye of a connoisseur and requires absolute quality in terms of gems. As a true master of the codes of luxury, he welcomed us in his Dubai location, imbued with refinement and elegance. Of course. It all began when I was young. As a young Adi, I spent a lot of t...

Horological complications: a beginner’s guide

Horological complications: a beginner’s guide

We've already covered watch movements, which you now master perfectly! Over time and with the acquisition of new pieces, the watch becomes much more than just a timepiece or a stylish accessory. As they gain confidence and accumulate technical knowledge, collectors will naturally gravitate towards models with complications. Complications are, of course, primarily associated with mechanical watches. Isn't a mechanical watch already a complex object in itself? "Certainly not," watchmakers will retort from behind their workbenches. With their focus on the infinitely small, these "mad scientists" continuously push boundaries. Because, beyond its aesthetic and practical qualities, a timepiece is first and foremost a technical feat. Designing a watch that tells time through a mechanical moveme...

Watch movements explained

Watch movements explained

It may seem strange to watch lovers, but many rookies are now interested in watches and want to find out more so that they can make informed purchases that suit their lifestyle. Starting with watch movements will allow me to continue with watch complications in another article. Watch movements are the part of watchmaking that enables a watch to function. There are several types of watch movement, each with its own features and advantages. The mechanical movement is the oldest type of watch movement. It uses a spring that must be wound manually or automatically to keep the clock running. The mechanical movement is considered to be the most precise and the hardest to build, but it is also the one that requires the most maintenance. It is important to find out about the power reserve, which r...

Adi Al Fardan: The Passion for Jewellery in Heritage

Adi Al Fardan: The Passion for Jewellery in Heritage

He was destined for a brilliant financial career, but his passion for jewellery and love for exceptional gemstones made him one of the youngest jewellers of his generation. Grandson of the famous "Pearl Doctor", Adi Al Fardan shared his father's passion for fine jewellery very early on. Alongside his studies, he dedicated all his free time to the development of the family business Al Fardan Jewellery, before creating his own company: Adi Al Fardan Jewellery. Trained by the best artisans around the world, Adi Al Fardan has the sharp eye of a connoisseur and requires absolute quality in terms of gems. As a true master of the codes of luxury, he welcomed us in his Dubai location, imbued with refinement and elegance. Of course. It all began when I was young. As a young Adi, I spent a lot of t...

The jewellery designer…

The jewellery designer…

Drawings of Samarcande rings by Frédéric Mané for Mathon Paris – Photo © Mathon Paris Most of the time, before making a jewel or piece of jewellery, the first volumes are represented on paper and then reworked by the jeweller who will give them shape and life. The role of the designer (aka draftsman) is essential: using different techniques, he brings a jewel to life. Using all the colours of the gemstone « palette », and a choice of different materials (yellow gold, white gold, brass, silver, leather, textiles, etc.) and using also shape and texture (glossy, matt, brushed, etc.), the designer gives life to jewel with his paintbrush. He knows how to translate the words of the “creators” into technical drawings, he is the link between the concept and its jewellery interpretation. Besides,...

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