Phoenix Rising

One gutsy retired pharmaceutical executive rescued two-century-old Swiss watchmaker Bovet, and today, its presence is stronger than ever in Southeast Asia.

You don’t sell a Bovet timepiece; you explain one. At least, that’s how brand owner Pascal Raffy sees it when it comes to the creations of this legendary twocentury-old manufacture.

Indeed, Bovet’s timepieces are often so lavish in detail that they first make your eyes widen in awe — and then water when you see the accompanying price tag. An explanation is welcome for seasoned collectors — for newcomers, it’s essential.

To truly appreciate Bovet’s marvellous intricacies, one must understand its fascinating history. In 1822, Edouard Bovet founded his eponymous brand in Fleurier, Switzerland, specialising in highly decorated pocket watches. The story differs from many of its venerable competitors because Edouard focused on bringing his wares to China, where they became immensely popular among the local elite.

Not only were the enamel paintings and intricate gem-setting highly prized, but the watches also stood out for being the first to use exhibition case backs, which allowed the beauty of the movements to be similarly admired.

Tragically, Bovet suffered the fate of many pocket watch-focused brands when wristwatches rose to prominence in the late 19th century, and thus slipped into obscurity.

THE SECOND COMING

Serendipitously, it was rescued in 2001 by an unexpected investor — former pharmaceutical businessman Pascal Raffy. Raffy is himself a passionate collector of rare timepieces and remembers the beauty of early Bovet timepieces from his grandfather’s collection.