PHILIPPE DUFOUR
By Elisabeth Dufour
The Art of horological excellence and the legacy of a Master
Philippe Dufour is much more than a master watchmaker; he embodies the very essence of watchmaking artistry, transforming each timepiece into a masterpiece where precision and dedication reach their pinnacle. For years, Philippe has inspired deep admiration worldwide through his unique expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence. His first accolade, the prestigious Gaïa Prize in 1998—often regarded as the "Nobel Prize of watchmaking"—marked a decisive milestone in the recognition of his talent. Since then, he has been acknowledged as a major voice in the field, influencing standards and shaping discussions.
His workshop, nestled in the village of Le Solliat, in the heart of the Vallée de Joux, is where he has been crafting some of the most admired watches in horological history for decades. Our clients wait years for his creations, which stand as a testament to unmatched exclusivity and quality. Surrounded by his sketches, valuable archives, specialized tools, and rare prototypes, Philippe meticulously crafts each watch, echoing the finest artisans of the past. Deeply connected to the surrounding nature, he gathers gentian stems from nearby woods, carving them into chamfering tools for finishing components, thus preserving an artisanal tradition in the modern age.
Philippe primarily works alone in this workshop, a former school where he has created a workspace that suits him perfectly. In recent years, our daughter Danièla has joined us, driven by the desire to preserve and expand this family legacy. For us, excellence is not an option; it is a requirement, and no compromise is tolerated.
Philippe's journey in watchmaking has been bold. Starting as a restorer of antique pocket watches, he learned from the masters of the past, observing how they crafted complications with simple tools. This path led him to create pieces for renowned brands before launching his own. In 1992, he took on an unprecedented challenge by integrating a grande sonnerie with a minute repeater in a wristwatch. A few years later, in 1996, he achieved the creation of the first double escapement wristwatch, the Duality.
Over time, Philippe gravitated toward purity and simplicity. The "Simplicity," launched in 2000, has become a timeless symbol of high-precision watchmaking. Inspired by the elegant lines of the 1950s and 60s, each Simplicity is unique, crafted in gold or platinum, with a few rare pieces made in steel.
Philippe Dufour SA is, above all, the art of creating watches of impeccable quality, hand-finished both inside and out. Each watch embodies the craftsmanship of a master and is designed to stand the test of time, in both performance and aesthetics. "We are here today; we must be here tomorrow!" Philippe often says, an expression that perfectly captures the essence of our work.
Elisabeth Dufour, Director, Head of Communication and Sales
