In this episode we sit down with Alexandre, watchmaker and founder of Favre-Bulle, an independent microbrand based in Geneva, Switzerland.
Wristchecks
Alexandre is wearing the Favre-Bulle Three Peaks in White, while Praka has on his Nomos Club 703.1.
Recap:
Alexandre first studied law and economics before becoming fascinated by mechanical watches. That interest led him to pursue an internship and ultimately enrol in watchmaking school in Geneva, where he completed a diploma. He went on to work in CAD modelling, designing movement modules, and later spent three years at Rolex working on indices and the ceramic line. A move to Lausanne provided the spark that pushed him to start his own brand.
We discuss what motivated him to leave Rolex and build Favre-Bulle, before shifting to his debut model, the Three Peaks. Inspired by Swiss nature, the watch reflects essential life moments—slowing down, appreciating quality over quantity, and reconnecting with one’s roots. The design follows these values, with a grained dial evoking natural textures, and flat, angled subdials with brushed detailing.
Alexandre shares his experience running a successful Kickstarter campaign and explains how he approached improving the production model, including a reduced thickness for the automatic chronograph—no easy feat. We explore his decision to launch the brand with a chronograph and what future complications may look like. His first assembled movement was the ETA 7750, so reimagining a chronograph in his own vision felt natural. The second model will introduce another complication aligned with Favre-Bulle’s philosophy, a jumping hour that offers a new perspective on time.
We talk about the Favre-Bulle name and its family origins, and whether there’s watchmaking history within his lineage. Alexandre also shares plans to attend global watch fairs, including MicroPraha in Prague at the end of November, with hopes of showcasing prototypes and new dial variations.
We close out the main conversation by discussing his vision for the brand’s future. Alexandre aims to build a strong design DNA that is recognisable but subtle—not loud, but distinct. He hopes to develop different collections in the future—casual, relaxed or more complex models—all while staying rooted in Favre-Bulle’s core identity.
Something Interesting:
Alexandre discusses current issues around tariffs in Switzerland and the broader uncertainty affecting the industry and people within it. We also chat about pieces from his own collection, including a Rolex GMT-Master II Rootbeer, a Tudor chronograph he purchased for 100 CHF, and the Yema Microrotor. Praka shares an update on his own collection to wrap things up.
Contact Us:
You can find more about the brand at the Favre-Bulle website, or reach Alexandre directly at [email protected].
Thanks for tuning in! If you have any feedback or just want to chat, you can find us here:
Praka: @kinda.average.watches
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