From Bienne to Your Dream Watch with Miguel Bolea
Every time I think I’ve just about seen it all in the world of Bienne watchmaking, someone proves me wrong. Miguel Bolea did just that. He is the founder of DYW Bespoke. DYW stands for “Develop Your Watch”.
What “Made in Bienne” Is… and What It’s Not!
I generally take two weeks off at the end of the year to recharge and do a bit of thinking. It’s a good opportunity to look back with some pause, and reflect. I try to review a bunch of things, such as how to better organize the house, better help the kids, be more effective at work
The MoonSwatch is Elected Bienne Watch of the Year
1969 and the Moon landing aside, 2022 may be the greatest year the Omega Speedmaster has ever known. The iconic chronograph saw its classic ’57 collection revamped, broke horological boundaries with the Chrono Chime and finally made it to the wish-list
Bienne Gems, Episode 2: Ebel, Mido and Rolex Pre-Owned Finds
I wanted to get in a second episode of Bienne Gems in time for the holiday season. Of course, I realize a mechanical watch is typically not what most people get under the tree. For most folks, a nice watch is for a special occasion
From Lancaster to Bienne, Hamilton Turns 130
In Switzerland, Biel/Bienne is known for its diversity. A German and French bilingual town, within commute distance to Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Lausanne and Bern, it hosts people from all across the country. Walking down the streets
Bienne Watch of the Year: the 4 Finalists
So here we are. A few months after having announced the first Bienne Watch of the Year election, and later received nominations from
From Rolex Hairsprings to French Pastries, Charlotte Ernandez Shows a Delicate Taste of Bienne
“Charlotte’s” quickly became my go-to bakery in Bienne when it opened 2 years ago. And while the fantastic St Honorés and pear tarts are the reasons I keep coming back, I must confess I was often intrigued
How It Took Rolex a Century to Own Its Movement Manufacture
I know, it sounds odd: Rolex is renowned for doing just about everything in-house. Yet, the brand with the crown only acquired the company that makes all its movements in 2004. This post, itself based on
Vintage Speedmaster Trends: an Interview with Julien Vallon
Julien Vallon likes to fly under the radar. But those who know Swiss watchmaking circles are well aware of his role as one of its important players. Like both sides of the Moon, but without a dark one, Vallon runs two distinct
The Refreshingly un-Bling Watch Culture in Bienne
There’s one thing I personally don’t like about the world of watches. It’s when watches are about everything but actual watchmaking: watches as status, watches as an asset class, watches as an accessory part of