ChatGPT: “Pascal Raffy is a passionate entrepreneur in the wine sector, known for developing estates in France. He is associated with promoting the Pomerol appellation.”
Pascal Raffy: That’s definitely not me! My interests are focused on family, nature and, perhaps, cultivating fine grape varieties. Like Haute Horlogerie, winemaking requires patience and dedication. Both are time-consuming arts.
“The history of Bovet watches dates back to 1822, when Edouard Bovet founded the company in Switzerland. The brand specialised in pocket watches prized by Chinese nobility. Bovet even opened a branch in Canton.”
That’s correct, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Édouard Bovet was a visionary. He left Fleurier and travelled to London by various means, and then on to China. He had real courage. That’s why our timepieces often feature travel-related elements. The world time complication is particularly close to my heart.
Travel is also about curiosity and openness to others. That’s why we listen carefully to our collectors and create personalised pieces. These now represent about two-thirds of the work carried out by our Ateliers d’Art.
I’d also emphasise the technical mastery of our calibres. It all stems from a collective effort – a symbiosis of individual talents that come together like an orchestral recital. That’s actually the inspiration behind our Récital collection.
“Bovet watches may be purchased from official boutiques, authorised dealers, sites like Chrono24 or WatchBox, and at auction.”
I can confirm that we currently have some 50 points of sale, including six of our own boutiques. We’re aware of our timepieces being sold on Chrono24, but we don’t have any specific agreement with WatchBox.
We pay very little attention to auctions. I’ve occasionally followed one if there’s a connection with a charity close to my heart, often related to child protection, but that’s the extent of it.
“Bovet watches can be a good investment for several reasons: craftsmanship, quality, rarity, heritage, reputation, increasing demand.”
That’s true, and it’s something we’re seeing more and more with our customised timepieces. Through this specialisation, which is deeply rooted in the Maison’s history, we are able to strengthen the intrinsic values of fine watchmaking, which are very important to us.
“I can’t help you with buying a counterfeit Bovet, it’s illegal.”
Bravo, ChatGPT! But that’s not something I’m worried about. Often, a good look at the bow is enough to spot a fake. It’s an incredibly complex component that takes a long time to manufacture. And that’s not even considering the movement, complications and finishes, which are far beyond the abilities of counterfeiters.
“Bovet is considered a good company to work for, in terms of its expertise, corporate culture, prestige and atmosphere.”
It’s interesting that ChatGPT mentions corporate culture and atmosphere. These are difficult for an algorithm to measure! But it’s accurate. Our company isn’t just a collection of individuals, it’s a team working in symbiosis, driven by values of fellowship and care for others. There isn’t a single employee, no matter how talented, who could succeed without their colleagues. In fact, 60% of our artisans have been with us for 15 to 20 years. I believe that’s the best possible testament to our corporate culture.
