Laurent Ferrier is a watchmaker’s watchmaker, having worked at Patek Philippe for more than 30 years, rising to the rank of technical director, and then starting his own brand five years ago. I caught up with Ferrier to find out what makes him tick.
You have had quite a career. What is your secret of success?
The opportunity to have worked for 40 years with the best craftsmen, designers and watchmakers gave me a taste for excellence and performance. During all those years I had the chance to fulfil my dreams and meet people passionate about fine watchmaking with whom I continue to share fantastic moments along this common passion.
What do you love about watches?
Watches are for me a form of elegance, harmony in an object which is a paramount of craftsmanship and refinement. It combines visual arts and technical expertise and knowledge.
How did you come to the decision to start your own brand?
Both my father and grandfather worked in the watchmaking industry; I always wanted to perpetuate this legacy. For me, producing my own timepiece was really a once in a lifetime chance to fulfil a real watchmaking dream.
Our initial intention was to design the piece that a watchmaker would love to wear. This is how the Galet Classic was born. Following the GPHG award in the men's watch category, the brand awareness really took off.
Laurent Ferrier is now five years old and we have learned a lot during this fantastic experience. The GPHG award was just overwhelming and is perceived as a real encouragement to keep striving for the same level of commitment and passion for excellence.
What was the biggest challenge to getting your brand off the ground?
The success of the Galet Classic Tourbillon Double Spiral helped us build brand awareness. The challenge we faced was to enhance our collection and offer new models that stick to the highest standards of Haute Horlogerie excellence while offering appealing products to our customers.
What is your favourite, non-Laurent Ferrier watch?
The Patek Philippe 5159 Officer’s watch, a legendary timepiece.
Do you remember your first watch? What was it and what is the story behind it?
My very first watch was an Orator timepiece that I received at the age of 10 as a gift from my father who was the brand agent.
What gets you up in the morning? What do you enjoy about what you do?
I had the chance to be given the extraordinary opportunity to create my own timepiece from scratch with total freedom.
When I realized we had a customer base to support us, I kept doing what I really enjoy in life: design timepieces. And I have so many projects in mind ... a few of them may surprise you.
