282 Years Of Watchmaking Heritage

The Favre-Leuba Bivouac 9000 - the first mechanical wristwatch capable of measuring altitudes of up to 9,000 metres above sea level – is the perfect encapsulation of the Swiss brand’s storied history.

Since its creation in 1737 by Abraham Favre, Switzerland’s second-oldest watch brand has always taken the path less trodden when it comes to creating highly functional watches that are extremely useful for the wearer. The Bivouac, in particular, has a pedigree that is impeccable.

Following its launch in 1962, the Bivouac became a hot favourite with, and a permanent fixture on, the wrists of mountain climbers, pilots, parachutists, explorers and other pioneers, who welcomed all challenges, regardless of how extreme they were or how hostile the environment was. It was the first mechanical wristwatch to measure altitude and air pressure, with an aneroid barometer; it was no larger than a standard chronograph, boasting outstanding reliability and extreme precision, and was very easy to use and read. The Bivouac caused a sensation in the watch industry, but it was just one of the many accomplishments of a brand that had set itself the goal of creating timepieces that work perfectly in any situation and in all weather conditions.

For example, the five members of the Swiss national parachuting team wore Bivouac watches during training for, and when competing in, the 1962 World Parachuting Championships in the USA. The watches precisely displayed the ideal jump height, and team captain Major Roland Troyon gave a clear assessment of the watch: “The Bivouac is the perfect instrument for skydiving.”