Introduction to Handpicked Newsletter

AN INTRODUCTION TO HANDPICKED

We bring you an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look into the workshops of independent watchmakers and the occasional news of new releases before they are shared on our website or Instagram feed.

WORKSHOP VISITS

Our travels and conversations with watchmakers around the world will only be featured in our newsletter, giving you a more intimate and relaxed glimpse into their workshops.

RAÚL PAGÈS

The workshop is nestled in Les Brenets, a charming town perched on the banks of the Doubs, adjacent to Le Locle. Raúl is what I like to call a complete watchmaker. With a strong background in restoration, he has mastered the creation process from end to end, conceiving, designing, and producing each of his watches.

His deep-seated passion for vintage furniture and architecture permeates his watch designs and his workshop. Vintage desks, chairs dating back to the 1960s, industrial lamps, and contemporary sculptures adorn his space. Despite its modest size and the array of machinery it houses, Raúl's workshop exudes a peaceful ambience. Here, one can witness him sketching and envisioning new timepieces, hand-finishing components, and meticulously executing their final regulation...

Sylvain Pinaud

You can be sure that you will have a good time when stopping by Sylvain's atelier in Sainte-Croix. Despite what you might assume, in the watch world, Sainte-Croix is known for being the location for watchmaker’s workshops, including those of Vianney Halter and De Bethune’s Denis Flageollet.

At first glance, it’s clear that Sylvain appreciates craft and mechanics, as his workshop is filled with interesting objects. You can see a vintage motorbike lying at the side, a few big, old-school machines placed all around the room, custom furniture, and walls made of chipboard panels...

AKRIVIA

Last week, while we were making our way through the cobbled streets of Geneva’s historic Old Town, we sought shelter at the AKRIVIA studios from the incessant downpour that had followed us from London. After a quick espresso and chat with Annabelle Roques, chief operating officer for the brand, in the new and characterfully decorated reception area on the top floor of the building the workshop is located in, we headed across the street to meet the living legend who happened to be in the manufacture that day...

Urwerk

Urwerk's workshop is located in Geneva's old town, situated in one of the city's oldest buildings. The name "Urwerk" often evokes the image of a team of eccentric scientists crafting timepieces for the wrists of characters like Spock or Luke Skywalker.

However, the reality is that their Geneva workshop seamlessly blends modernity with relics of the past. Remarkable clocks, such as the Gustave Sandoz Regulator Clock and a 17th century night clock, which served as inspiration for their iconic wandering hours models, can be found...