Alexandre Martin 1965: A New Independent Watchmaker Debuts with a Superb Timepiece

Belgian Watchmaker Alexandre Martin Launches His Debut Watch

There is currently a real wave of young independent watchmakers launching their own brands, and one of the most impressive newcomers is Alexandre Martin, a 28-year-old Belgian who has just opened his workshop in Morges, Switzerland. His debut timepiece, named "1965" after the birth year of his father, is an elegant three-hand watch that belies the maker's ambition to specialize in complications.

A Watchmaker Forged at the Highest Level

Alexandre Martin developed a passion for watchmaking at just 12 years old, growing up in an environment where skilled craftsmanship was valued — his father is a restorer of antique furniture. After studying at the IATA school in Namur, Belgium, he restored watches independently to earn money and hone his skills before heading to Switzerland.

His career path reads like a who's who of high horology: he worked at MHC under the late Pierre Favre, then at Greubel Forsey on the Hand-Made project, and finally at Petermann Bedat on their split-seconds chronograph. This pedigree shows in every detail of the 1965.

Modified CYMA 586: Tradition Meets Innovation

For his debut, Martin chose not to immediately develop an entirely new movement. Instead, he started with a proven base — the CYMA 586 — which was extensively modified. The mainplate and gear train were beautifully refinished, while new bridges, balance wheel with Breguet hairspring, and a mobile click mechanism were manufactured specifically.

The overall execution is superb, featuring hand-brushed grained finishes and bridges with beautiful beveling and inward angles. For commercial production, the entire assembly will be newly manufactured, with an improved barrel to exceed the original 36-hour power reserve.

Contemporary Design with Personal Meaning

The dial comprises three sections, including a small seconds subdial at 6 o'clock crafted from enamel in Anita Porchet's workshops. The white gold hour markers appear to float above the dial — inspired by mountains and paragliding, Martin's other passion. The hand-polished steel hands are also inspired by high mountain gear.

The Alexandre Martin 1965 will be released as a limited series of 12 pieces in steel at CHF 65,000, followed by platinum and pink gold editions. Delivery is expected within approximately 18 months.

FAQ

Who is Alexandre Martin?

Alexandre Martin is a 28-year-old Belgian independent watchmaker who trained at top Swiss manufactures including Greubel Forsey and Petermann Bedat before launching his own brand in Morges, Switzerland.

What movement does the 1965 use?

The 1965 uses a modified CYMA 586 hand-wound movement, extensively refinished with new bridges, balance wheel, and click mechanism. Commercial versions will be entirely newly manufactured with improved power reserve.

How many pieces will be made?

The initial steel edition is limited to 12 pieces at CHF 65,000, followed by 12-piece limited editions in platinum and pink gold.

Source: Monochrome Watches, August 31, 2026

Explore more: Independent Watchmakers | New Releases 2026