MST Watch Co.: Swiss Craftsmanship and Innovation from the Early 20th Century

MST Watch Co., originally known as Meyer and Studeli, is a historic Swiss watch manufacturer with roots tracing back to the late 19th century. This company evolved into a significant player in Swiss watchmaking, famed for its innovative MST movements and global market expansion.
Key Highlights

Founded: The origins began in 1888 when Fritz Meyer, at age 29, established a workshop in Solothurn, Switzerland, focusing on manufacturing cylinder escapements for other watchmakers.

Meyer and Studeli Partnership: In 1905, Fritz Meyer partnered with watchmaker Johann Studeli to form Meyer and Studeli (MST), marking a pivotal change. By 1906, the company opened a modern factory designed to accommodate 300 employees.

Early Products: Initially specialized in inexpensive cylinder escapement watches, MST rapidly grew, producing complete watches assembled from diverse components and later manufacturing its own movements, starting with the “Calibre 38” in 1895.

Brand Expansion: MST registered multiple brands such as Femina (for ladies) and Moles, and in 1908, purchased the “Roamer” brand, which later became their premium line. Another notable brand, Medana, was used primarily for cylinder and pin-lever watches.

International Growth: MST expanded internationally, establishing a significant presence in the UK through the Medana Watch Co., led by Fritz Meyer’s son, Leo Meyer. They also entered markets like the U.S. and UK starting in the 1920s.

Company Growth: By 1917, MST became a Société Anonyme (SA), with Fritz Meyer as chairman and family members on the board. The company gradually moved production fully in-house by 1932, becoming a true manufacture.

Legacy Brands: Roamer became synonymous with quality, while Medana addressed the affordable segment. MST’s movements, particularly the MST calibers, earned a reputation for precision and reliability.

Leadership: Charles Meyer managed the company from 1915 until 1945, ensuring its long-term stability and family ownership through tumultuous times.

Why MST Matters

Pioneer of MST Movements: Known for durable, precise movements scientifically developed and crafted under the Meyer and Studeli partnership.

Swiss Industrial Evolution: MST’s transformation from a small workshop to a full-scale manufacturer epitomizes the industrialization of Swiss watchmaking in the early 20th century.

Global Presence: The company’s early and successful international expansion, particularly into the UK and U.S., helped establish Swiss watches worldwide.

Legacy and Collectability: Vintage MST, Roamer, and Medana watches are valued for historical importance, craftsmanship, and the company’s role in Swiss horological history.

MST Watch Co. stands as a testament to Swiss ingenuity, family-driven entrepreneurship, and vital contributions to modern watch manufacturing.