Simon Brette is an independent Swiss watchmaker whose debut timepiece, the Chronomètre Artisans, has garnered significant acclaim for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design. Raised in the Auvergne region of France, Simon was influenced by his father’s carpentry, instilling in him a deep appreciation for artisanal work. After completing his engineering studies in 2011, he joined Jean-François Mojon’s Chronode, contributing to movements for brands like IWC and HYT. He later held pivotal roles at MCT and MB&F, where he was instrumental in developing notable pieces such as the HM10 Bulldog and LMX.
In 2021, inspired by the birth of his daughter and a desire to honor traditional craftsmanship, Simon established his own brand. His inaugural creation, the Chronomètre Artisans, is a 39mm hand-wound chronometer featuring a unique “dragon scale” dial pattern, reminiscent of his father’s woodworking techniques. The watch houses the in-house SBCA calibre, boasting twin barrels for a three-day power reserve and utilizing materials like Phynox and Grade-5 titanium for enhanced performance.
What sets Simon Brette apart is his commitment to collaborative craftsmanship. Each Chronomètre Artisans comes with a “passport” crediting every artisan involved in its creation, emphasizing transparency and recognition. The watch’s exceptional quality and design earned it the Horological Revelation Prize at the 2023 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.
With a limited production of 12 pieces per year, the Chronomètre Artisans has quickly become a coveted item among collectors, with orders reportedly filled through 2028. Simon Brette’s dedication to blending traditional techniques with modern innovation positions his brand as a rising star in the world of independent watchmaking.