Founded in 2004, Les Ateliers Louis Moinet has, for the past two decades, brought new life to one of watchmaking’s most inventive figures: the 19th-century horological genius Louis Moinet. Acknowledged as the inventor of the chronograph, the watchmaker boasts a legacy that lives on in this brand that has fashioned a distinctive voice within the independent watchmaking scene.
From its workshop in Saint-Blaise on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel, the company has gained acclaim for its watchmaking laced with impressive mechanics and bold storytelling. The brand boasts two broad collections: Cosmic Art, which incorporates rare celestial materials like meteorites, and Mechanical Wonders, that focuses on intricately engineered movements. A strong design identity permeates all of the company’s watches.
Building on a career that spans leadership roles at Perrelet and Lacoste’s watch division, Les Ateliers Louis Moinet CEO and Creative Director Jean-Marie Schaller has spent the past 20 years steering the revival of the Moinet name, guided by a steadfast commitment to creating “limited-edition mechanical art”.
In this “Downtime” interview, Jean-Marie shares the inspirations that fuel his creativity, from his admiration for Louis Moinet’s genius to his passion for travel, Formula 1 and his favourite football club Arsenal.
Hi Jean-Marie. So, tell us: What is your favourite book?
‘The Arsenal Companion’, a book full of anecdotes about my beloved football club.
Your favourite movie?
‘Django Unchained’. I’m a huge fan of Quentin Tarantino.
Your favourite album?
In general, anything by the Rolling Stones. The fact that they just released ‘Hackney Diamonds’ at over 80 years old is, to me, a perfect definition of passion.
Your favourite food?
Italian cuisine. What’s better than a good plate of pasta?
Your favourite drink?
A Negroni: strong, powerful and with a unique character.
Your favourite holiday destination?
The Sultanate of Oman. A country with unspoiled heritage and incredible nature. You can go from ocean shores to mountains in very little time.
Your favourite TV show?
‘Formula 1: Drive to Survive’. It’s fascinating to see behind the scenes.
Your favourite piece of clothing or sartorial accessory?
An Arsenal jacket and trousers, created in collaboration with the streetwear brand Aries. Bold and stylish.
Your favourite activity that you do in your free time?
Travelling. Discovering new places stimulates my imagination, which is essential for my work.
Tell us something about you that might surprise us.
When I was 10 years old, I was struck by lightning. A ball of fire went through my body, and I thought I was going to die on the spot. But here I am...
What’s one item (not a watch) that you can’t live without? Or that you can’t go anywhere without?
My Porsche 911 Carrera. It’s gently aging into a vintage classic, and I never tire of admiring its beauty. And of course, I drive it very often.
What is on your ‘bucket list’ (an activity, accomplishment or destination that you hope to do or visit before you exit this world)?
To visit Uzbekistan and explore its cultural treasures.
Who is someone who has inspired you in your life and/or career. How did they inspire you?
Louis Moinet. Beyond his genius, it’s his love for watchmaking that has deeply inspired me.
Name a famous person or historical figure, dead or alive, that you would like to have lunch with. Why?
I’d invite Messrs Breguet, Moinet and Berthoud and carefully listen to their discussions...
What was the first watch you remember owning? What was special about it?
A Ramona watch, which I received for my first communion. I regarded it as a real treasure.
And finally, a wrist check: What watch are you currently wearing? And what do you like about it?
A Memoris Spirit. It’s both refined and very technical with the chronograph components displayed on the top of the mainplate.
For more information about Jean-Marie’s company, please visit the Les Ateliers Louis Moinet website.
