New Independent Watchmaker Alexandre Martin Debuts with Superb 1965 Timepiece
A Young Belgian Watchmaker Makes His Mark with Exceptional First Creation
The independent watchmaking scene continues to thrive with new talent, and one of the most impressive debut watches of 2026 comes from Alexandre Martin, a 28-year-old Belgian who has just opened his workshop in Morges, Switzerland. Named "1965" after his father's birth year, this elegant three-hand watch demonstrates remarkable maturity and technical skill from a young watchmaker whose ambition has always been to specialize in complications.
A Passion Born Early, Perfected Through Experience
Alexandre Martin developed his passion for watchmaking at just 12 years old. Growing up in an environment where skilled craftsmanship was valued – his father restores antique furniture – Martin's path to watchmaking was natural. He studied at the IATA school in Namur, where his ambition to become a complications specialist took shape.
Determined to achieve this goal, Martin restored watches independently to earn extra money, buy tools, and hone his skills. Upon graduating, he moved to Switzerland, facing numerous rejections until the late Pierre Favre of MHC gave him his chance. Following MHC's bankruptcy, Martin continued at Greubel Forsey, where he worked on the Hand-Made project, then joined Petermann Bédat, contributing to the split-seconds chronograph.
A Different Approach: Presenting Finished Watches, Not Promises
Unlike many young independent watchmakers who start with subscription models – presenting designs, taking pre-orders, and only then developing the project – Martin wanted to present something tangible from the beginning. This approach demonstrates both confidence and respect for potential collectors.
For his debut watch, Martin chose not to immediately develop an entirely new movement. Instead, he started with a proven base: the CYMA 586, which was beautifully refinished and modified. While the mainplate and gear train were retained, other components like bridges were manufactured specifically, and the balance wheel with Breguet hairspring was remade.
Technical Excellence in Every Detail
The overall execution is superb, reflecting meticulous attention to detail. Features include hand-brushed grained finish and bridges with beautiful beveling and inward angles. For commercial production, the entire assembly will be newly manufactured, providing the opportunity to rework the barrel and increase power reserve beyond the original CYMA 586's 36 hours.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Case | 38mm diameter x 9.35mm thickness x 46.8mm lug-to-lug |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Bezel | Polished concave |
| Crystal | Sapphire with AR coating |
| Water Resistance | 50m |
| Dial | 3-part construction with enamel small seconds subdial |
| Movement | Hand-wound, reworked CYMA 586 base |
| Frequency | 18,000 vph |
| Jewels | 19 |
| Strap | Calf leather on steel pin buckle |
Design Inspired by Mountains
Every detail of the watch holds significance, particularly Martin's passion for mountains and activities like paragliding. This inspiration is evident in the white gold hour markers, which appear suspended above the dial, creating the impression of floating. The hand-polished steel hands are also inspired by high mountain gear, adding personal narrative to the technical excellence.
Availability and Pricing
The Alexandre Martin 1965 will be released in steel as a limited series of 12 pieces, priced at CHF 65,000. Delivery should be complete within about 18 months. This will be followed by two additional limited editions of 12 pieces each in platinum and pink gold, offering collectors multiple entry points to this emerging brand.
Why This Watch Matters
The debut watch from Alexandre Martin represents everything that's exciting about independent watchmaking: a young, talented watchmaker with exceptional skills, a clear vision, and respect for tradition while pushing boundaries. As Monochrome Watches notes, there's currently "a real wave of new, young independent watchmakers launching their own brand," and Martin's 1965 stands out for its exceptional execution and thoughtful approach.
FAQ
Q: Why choose a three-hand watch for a debut when Martin specializes in complications?
A: Martin wanted to present a finished, tangible watch from the beginning rather than taking pre-orders for a future product. Starting with a proven movement allowed him to focus on exceptional finishing and design, establishing his reputation before moving to more complex pieces.
Q: What is the significance of the name "1965"?
A: The watch is named after Martin's father's birth year, adding personal significance to the piece. This naming choice reflects the personal touch that distinguishes independent watchmaking from larger brands.
Q: How does the enamel small seconds subdial enhance the watch?
A: The enamel subdial at 6 o'clock, produced in Anita Porchet's workshops, adds both visual interest and traditional craftsmanship. Enamel dials require exceptional skill to produce and add depth and luminosity to the overall design.
Source
According to Monochrome Watches, indie watchmaker Alexandre Martin launches his debut watch, the superb 1965, representing a new high-end indie watchmaker on the scene with an impressive first timepiece.