While Swiss watchmaking often dominates discussions, France has a rich watchmaking tradition that combines elegance, craftsmanship, and technical innovation. From historic houses to new independent brands, French watchmaking stands out for its diversity of styles and philosophies. Here is an overview of the biggest French watch brands.
LIP: An icon of French watchmaking
Founded in 1867, LIP is a key player in the French watchmaking industry. Its history is marked by major innovations, such as the first electric watch in 1952 and the creation of iconic models such as the Himalaya and the Dauphine.
After a difficult period in the 1970s, LIP bounced back and now offers a range of watches combining vintage reissues and contemporary designs. Made in France, these watches appeal to lovers of fine watchmaking and nostalgic collectors.
Michel Herbelin: French watchmaking elegance
Founded in 1947, the Michel Herbelin is synonymous with refinement and artisanal quality. Based in the French Jura region, it is committed to perpetuating traditional expertise while incorporating high-precision Swiss movements.
Among its flagship collections are the Newport, inspired by the marine world, and Inspiration 1947, a tribute to its watchmaking heritage. Michel Herbelin focuses on local manufacturing, guaranteeing impeccable finishes.
Baltic: The revival of vintage made in France
A young brand launched in 2017, Baltic has quickly won over watch enthusiasts with its neo-vintage approach. Inspired by watches from the 1940s, its creations combine minimalist design with meticulous finishes.
Assembled in France, Baltic watches use Japanese or Swiss movements and are distinguished by their compact cases, textured dials, and aged leather straps. Models such as the Baltic Aquascaphe are now benchmarks in the world of affordable diving watches.
B.R.M Chronographs: The spirit of motorsports on your wrist
Since its creation in 2003, B.R.M Chronographs has established itself as the watch brand of the motorsports world. Each watch is made in France with particular attention to materials and technical details.
The models often feature bold designs, with piston-shaped cases, hands inspired by racing car steering wheels, and dials displaying bright colors reminiscent of the world of rallying. The B.R.M V12 and R50 are iconic models that appeal to enthusiasts of speed and precision.
March LA.B: French-style luxury
Founded in 2008, March LA.B offers timepieces that blend retro influences with modernity. Inspired by the 1960s and 1970s, the watches are distinguished by their square cases, sleek dials, and refined details.
The brand promotes sustainable production, with assembly in France and high-quality materials. Its models, such as the March LAB AM2 and the SEVENTY, appeal to those looking for an elegant watch with a timeless design.
Hegid: Innovative modular watchmaking
Launched in 2018, Hegid is revolutionizing watchmaking with a unique concept: the modular watch. Its ingenious system makes it easy to change the case, dial, and strap, offering endless customization options.
With models such as the Hegid Vision and Hegid Laboratoire, the brand targets enthusiasts of customizable watches who want to adapt their timepiece to their style and current desires.
Briston: French casual chic
Founded in 2012, Briston has established itself as a sporty-chic watch brand. Its watches are easily recognizable thanks to their cellulose acetate cases, a material that adds warmth and originality.
Briston models, such as the Clubmaster or Streamliner, are often paired with colorful NATO straps, reinforcing their casual and dynamic look. An ideal brand for those looking for a stylish but not overly formal watch.
Yema: A legendary French watch brand
Founded in 1948, Yema, which we recently profiled, has made history with its watches designed for divers, pilots, and explorers. Its Superman model, designed in the 1960s, is still a benchmark among diving watches today.
Yema remains one of the few brands to produce its own calibers in France, an initiative that demonstrates its commitment to preserving national watchmaking expertise. The current models combine vintage design with modern technology, appealing to both collectors and enthusiasts of robust, accurate watches.
A revival of French watchmaking
Far from being overshadowed by Swiss watchmaking, French watchmaking is experiencing a renaissance. With historic brands such as LIP, Yema, and Michel Herbelin, and new names such as Baltic, March LA.B, and Hegid, France is proving that its expertise is as relevant as ever.
With a blend of creativity, innovation, and artisanal excellence, these French brands are attracting an increasingly wide audience seeking watches with unique designs and authentic DNA.