Record Watch Co.: Swiss Watchmaking Excellence Since 1903

The Record Watch Company is a renowned name in Swiss horology, celebrated for innovation and high-quality craftsmanship from its founding in 1903 until its closure in 1991.
Key Highlights

Founded: 1903 in Tramelan, Switzerland, by a coalition of local watchmakers and businessmen seeking to produce the patent-pending “Sector Watch”—a triangular pocket watch with a retrograde display, an unusual and innovative mechanism at the time

Early Innovation: The Sector (or “sector”) watch used a 120° dial and featured hands that moved left to right, then snapped back, well before “retrograde” displays became prominent in modern horology

Merger and Growth: In 1916, the company merged with others to form the Record Dreadnought Watch Co. S.A., expanding its capabilities and product lines

Diverse Production: Beyond the Sector Watch, Record made a wide variety of fully jewelled pocket watches, wristwatches, clocks, and high-grade movements, supplying parts for other brands and creating in-house calibres

World War II Contribution: Record was among the twelve Swiss companies selected to produce “Dirty Dozen” military watches for the British military. These are now highly collectible, noted for their durability and precise timekeeping under harsh conditions

Railroad & Chronometer Milestones:

In the 1950s, Record’s pocket watches became the first Swiss watches approved for use on U.S. railroads

Produced robust chronographs and “Sport” models renowned for both utility and style

Acquisition by Longines: In 1961, Longines acquired a majority share; many subsequent watches bore the dual Record-Longines signature and used ETA movements

Legacy: Production ceased in 1991, but the brand left a strong legacy—respected by collectors for its technical advances and role in both civilian and military watchmaking

Collector Appeal

Engineering Excellence: Recognized for reliable movements and inventive designs.

Vintage Value: Sector watches, “Dirty Dozen” military models, and chronographs remain highly sought after.

Parts and Restoration: Availability of spares and robust construction make Record watches popular among vintage restorers

The Record Watch Co. exemplifies the inventive spirit and technical precision of Swiss