For centuries, Switzerland has been synonymous with precision, innovation, and luxury – and at the heart of this reputation lies the art of watchmaking. WatchNation, a proud authorised retailer of some of the world’s most prestigious timepiece brands, celebrates this heritage. But before we delve into the exquisite brands we carry, let’s embark on a journey through the fascinating history of Swiss watches.

From Reformation to Reputation: The Birth of Swiss Watchmaking (16th Century)

The story begins in Geneva in the mid-16th century. John Calvin, a prominent reformer, outlawed the wearing of ostentatious jewelry. This, however, proved to be a blessing in disguise for Swiss artisans. Goldsmiths and jewelers, deprived of their usual craft, turned their skills to a new art form – watchmaking. Geneva quickly flourished as a center for horological excellence, establishing the world’s first watchmakers’ guild in 1601.

Innovation and Industrialization: Switzerland Takes the Lead (18th-19th Centuries)

Swiss watchmaking thrived throughout the following centuries. Abraham-Louis Breguet, a legendary watchmaker, unveiled the tourbillon in 1795, a revolutionary invention that countered the effects of gravity on a watch’s accuracy. The 19th century saw a shift towards mass production, pioneered by visionary figures like Frédéric Ingold and Georges Léschot. This, coupled with the rise of the Jura Valley as a watchmaking hub, solidified Switzerland’s position as the global leader in timekeeping.

Wristwatches and World Wars: A Transformation Era (20th Century)

The 20th century ushered in a new era for Swiss watches. The invention of the wristwatch during World War I transformed timekeeping from a pocket accessory to a practical tool worn on the wrist. Swiss brands like Rolex and Omega rose to prominence, supplying military personnel with reliable timepieces. The latter half of the century saw advancements in automatic and quartz movements, further cementing Switzerland’s reputation for cutting-edge technology.

WatchNation: Carrying Forward the Legacy

At WatchNation, we are custodians of this incredible legacy. As authorized retailers of some of the finest Swiss watch brands, we offer a diverse selection that caters to every taste and budget. Let’s explore some of the remarkable brands we carry:

• BALL Watch: Renowned for their chronometer-certified timepieces and commitment to durability. Shop Ball Watches here.

• Baume & Mercier: A heritage brand known for their elegant and timeless designs. Shop Baume & Mercier Watches here.

• Hamilton: A symbol of American spirit with Swiss precision at its core. Shop Hamilton watches here.

• Maurice Lacroix: Where innovation meets artistry, crafting exquisite and high-performance watches. Shop Maurice Lacroix Watches here.

• Luminox: Built for peak performance and extreme conditions, favoured by military and law enforcement professionals. Shop Luminox watches here.

• Squale: Offering exceptional value and functionality for the discerning watch enthusiast. Shop Squale Watches here.

• Victorinox: The iconic Swiss Army Knife brand, extending their legacy to reliable and stylish timepieces. Shop Victorinox Watches here.

Whether you seek a robust tool watch, a timeless dress piece, or a symbol of innovation, WatchNation has the perfect Swiss watch for you. We invite you to explore our collection and discover the history of excellence on your wrist. Discover the range here.