 Perrelet
Watches from Switzerland
The Perrelet watchmaking dynasty has been responsible for some of the most
important watchmaking innovations during the last three centuries, including the invention
of the self-winding mechanical watch in 1770 by Abraham-Louis Perrelet. Today, Perrelet
still creates innovative handmade modern watches in keeping with the watchmaking
traditions pioneered by the Perrelet family.
Each year Perrelet's team of 15 produces approximately 3,000 watches in one of the most
historic buildings in Neuchatel, Switzerland.
History of Perrelet Watches
Modern watchmaking has never been the same since Abraham-Louis Perrelet invented the
self-winding watch in Le Locle in the 1770s. Known as "Grandpa Perrelet" he
lived to be 96 and continues to inspire and teach several generations of watchmakers
including Jacques-Frederic Houriet, known as the father of the Swiss chronometer, and
Louis-Frederic Perrelet, his grandson. Some historians believe that Perrelet also was a
mentor to another great mind in watchmaking, Abraham-Louis Breguet.
After striking out on his own, Louis-Frederic Perrelet worked for many European royal
courts and was honored as the watchmaker to the kings of France. In 1827, he patented
another landmark invention in watchmaking, the split second chronograph.
Watchmaking Achievements of Perrelet
Perrelet still produces self-winding watches based on the principles invented by
Abraham-Louis Perrelet. In 1995, Perrelet S.A. introduced another invention that serves
not only as a technical achievement but an aesthetic one as well: the first double rotor
watch. The mechanism, which consists of an upper rotor, visible from the dial, and a lower
rotor, improves on existing self-winding mechanical movements since it is able to draw
energy from two rotors instead of one, resulting in a faster and more stable winding
process than other automatic movements.
Notable Characteristics Perrelet Watches
Following the tradition of Swiss craftsmanship, each Perrelet watch is always made
individually by hand. Watch dials, cases and bracelets are all fitted with a jeweler's
touch with upper rotors often made of 18k gold and scratch resistant sapphire crystals.
All Perrelet watches are water resistant to 30 meters. Each watch is engraved with its own
number on the caseback as a guarantee of its authenticity and uniqueness.
Straps on watches are made of the finest leathers including exotic skins such as
Mississippi alligator, caiman, and ostrich.
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