Favre-Leuba Watch Co.: Switzerland’s Historic Pioneer of Horology Since 1737

The Favre-Leuba Watch Company is one of the oldest and most respected Swiss watch manufacturers, with a rich heritage that dates back to 1737. Founded by Abraham Favre in Le Locle, Switzerland, the company is recognized as the second oldest Swiss watch brand after Blancpain.
Key Highlights

Founded: In 1737 by Abraham Favre in Le Locle, Switzerland, who registered as an independent watchmaker.

Heritage: The brand name Favre-Leuba was created in 1815 when Abraham Favre Jr. partnered with Auguste Leuba, another watchmaker from a distinguished family.

Legacy of Craftsmanship: Favre-Leuba was run by eight generations of the Favre family, maintaining a deep commitment to quality and innovation across centuries.

Innovation and Exploration:

The Bivouac watch (introduced in 1962) was the first mechanical wristwatch with an aneroid barometer and altimeter, aimed at mountaineers and explorers.

The brand has a history of supporting expeditions, with its watches accompanying adventurers on major climbs like the 1964 Geneva International Mountaineering Expedition.

Technical Excellence: Known for early dive watches such as the “Water Deep” (1960) and in-house mechanical calibers like the FL101 movement launched in 1955.

Global Reach: Favre-Leuba expanded internationally in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly in the Asian market.

Ownership Changes: The brand endured challenges during the quartz crisis of the 1980s, changing hands multiple times. From 2011 to 2023, it was owned by India’s Titan Company before acquisition by Silvercity Brands.

Modern Revival: Today, Favre-Leuba continues to produce watches blending heritage design with modern engineering, focusing on robust tool watches with a spirit of adventure.

Why Favre-Leuba Matters

Historical Importance: As the world’s second oldest continuous Swiss watch brand, it symbolizes centuries of horological tradition.

Innovative Spirit: Pioneered mechanical altimeters for wristwatches and robust complication watches.

Adventure Legacy: Its timepieces are synonymous with exploration and technical reliability, favored by mountaineers and adventurers.

Collector’s Value: Vintage models, especially the Bivouac and early dive watches, are prized by collectors for their engineering and historical significance.

Favre-Leuba stands as a testament to Swiss watchmaking excellence, combining an enduring family heritage with a passion for mechanical innovation and exploration.