The Beginning and The End
The Bovet brand was founded in 1822 by Edouard Bovet and his brothers who had learned watch making from their father. The real birth of the brand dates further back to 1797 in a small village by the name of Fleurier. The focus of the brand when it began was to sell timepieces in the Chinese market. With four pocket watches, Edouard headed to China where he sold those for a large sum and established himself in this new unexplored market. The brand grew because of superior quality as well as the ornate designs. The obstacle that proved to truly undermine the brand was counterfeiting. While actions were taken to try and combat this, coupled with the opium wars, the brand could not survive and after Edouards death the family sold their interest in the company.
New Breath and the Fleuirer Collection
Changing hands a multitude of times through the years, Bovet has always maintained a rich history. Artistic and technological marvels were introduced to the world of Haute Horlogerie by the brand who pioneered so many aspects that are still in practice today. The double-sided tourbillon, the felly balance wheel, exquisite miniature painting, engraving and exquisite artistry are what this brand is known for. This age-old practice is preserved today as the brand continues to utilize the high skill artisans that craft these pieces. Pascal Raffy, a passionate watch collector acquired the brand in 2001 and continues to deliver these collections that we love today. The company focus is on quality and currently has 73 employees and artisans of 41 different professions. The components are made in-house and while they utilize state-of-the-art technology, the magnificent hand work is still the heart of Bovet.
Pininfarina Drives The Future
Combining the best in design and technique, two legends join hands to create distinctive watches that are contemporary mechanical excellence. Italian designer Pininfarina, known for streamlined supercars, motor yachts and skyscrapers joins the brand for a partnership that results in brilliance. Beginning in 2008, the alignment has produced six fantastic timepieces. Slim, ergonomic design, a no fear attitude that pushed limits and clearly brands that only know perfection helped to create these timepieces. The Ottantasei is like the super watch, maximum transparency/minimum weight, a view through the case that features no less than four sapphire crystals. The 44mm case weighs 51.66 grams, red gold and light as a feather, what beauty this watch brings to a wrist. Not forgetting brand history, the design placement of the 12 o’clock, the visible screw heads, and of course the firm roots of the Ottanta collection clearly visible. The movement is superior with patent awards and just defines the quality and precision of the two creators.
Shared Excellence
In addition to the love of perfection, these two legends and friends share human values, respect for unique talent, and a heartfelt desire to redefine genuine luxury. Attention to detail is something that Paolo Pininfarina and the Bovet house share as their foundation. The level of excellence that each expects and their conviction symbolizes the common vision for the future. A timeless match that certainly will lead the brands to continued success.
