The Swiss watch brand Corum is unveiling a new Admiral collection at Watches & Wonders 2026. A groundbreaking chapter that brilliantly combines nautical heritage with innovation, thanks to a modernized design and the integration of in-house calibers. This launch marks a decisive turning point for the manufacture, reaffirming its commitment to fine watchmaking and its maritime roots.
A nautical icon reimagined
Founded in 1955 by René Bannwart and Gaston Ries, Corum has always been celebrated for its unconventional approach to watchmaking. Its unique creations, such as the Coin Watch crafted from a genuine $20 Double Eagle coin, have achieved cult status among discerning collectors. Today, the brand’s flagship remains the Admiral collection, named in honor of the famous international regatta.
This latest iteration marks a major evolution thanks to a complete overhaul of its aesthetic language. The relaunch features eleven new models, each boasting a redesigned silhouette that strikes the perfect balance between heritage and modernity.
The Art of Proportions and Integration
The new Admiral models are available in two sizes, 36 mm and 39 mm. All share a particularly slim profile of 8.9 mm, a feature that maintains proportional elegance despite the visual presence of the integrated bracelet. The collection explores a rich palette of materials, ranging from stainless steel to 18-karat rose gold, including two-tone variations and a bold 39 mm titanium model with an openwork dial. Each piece is water-resistant to 50 meters, making it ideal for everyday wear.
One of the major successes of this new design lies in its integrated bracelet. Meticulously articulated into five links with alternating brushed and polished finishes, it ends in an invisible butterfly clasp. Attached beneath the lugs in perfect continuity with the case, it offers a sleek and sculptural silhouette. For added versatility, some models are also available on textured rubber straps, fitted with folding clasps.
Softened lines and refined aesthetics
Conceived by designer Emmanuel Gueit, renowned for his work on iconic timepieces, this redesign introduces highly subtle details. The line’s iconic dodecagonal bezel is softened by scalloped edges, giving the watch a more fluid and organic look. The polished bevel between the bezel and the case masterfully captures the light, naturally drawing the eye to the dial.
As for the dials, the selection offers great visual richness. The classic versions feature a stunning blue-black smoked finish adorned with wave motifs and the famous colored nautical pennant-shaped hour markers, a historic signature of the Admiral line. The collection is further enriched with sunburst gray-green dials, meteorite textures, smoky gray and gold hues, as well as delicate mother-of-pearl variations. The most exclusive pieces are adorned with a bezel set with 46 diamonds, lending them a distinctly jewel-like quality.
A Manufacture Mastering Its Mechanics
Perhaps the most striking evolution lies at the very heart of the watch, with the transition to in-house calibers. The collection debuts the CO231 automatic movement, developed in close collaboration with Concepto Watch Factory. Beating at 4 Hz and offering a generous 72-hour power reserve, it can be admired through a transparent sapphire caseback. The titanium versions, meanwhile, feature the CO232 caliber, a fully skeletonized version that showcases an exceptional level of architectural finishing.
This technical transition illustrates Corum’s strategic commitment to increasing its manufacturing autonomy, thereby consolidating its standing and legitimacy within the highly demanding landscape of Swiss haute horlogerie.
A reaffirmed Swiss foundation
Now back under Swiss ownership, Corum is marking a true renaissance firmly rooted in its heritage. The presentation of this collection at Watches & Wonders 2026 reflects a renewed confidence and an ambitious vision for the future.
By blending historic nautical aesthetics with contemporary design, impeccable proportions, and cutting-edge mechanics, the new Admiral collection proves that Corum’s heritage is now more vibrant and innovative than ever.