Alexandre Martin: 28-Year-Old Belgian Watchmaker Launches Debut Watch '1965'
A New Voice in Independent Watchmaking
The independent watchmaking scene continues to welcome fresh talent, with 28-year-old Belgian watchmaker Alexandre Martin becoming the latest artisan to launch his own brand. Based in Morges, Switzerland, near Lausanne, Martin has unveiled his debut timepiece, the "1965" – named after his father's birth year – an elegant three-hand watch that belies the young watchmaker's ambition to specialize in complications.
From Furniture Restoration to Haute Horlogerie
Martin's journey into watchmaking began at age 12, inspired by his father's work as an antique furniture restorer. This early exposure to skilled craftsmanship led him to study at the IATA school in Namur, Belgium, where his passion for watchmaking was born. Unlike many young watchmakers who follow traditional career paths, Martin was determined to fast-track his journey into complications, restoring watches independently to fund his education and buy tools.
Upon graduating, Martin moved to Switzerland, where he worked with several prestigious manufactures including MHC, Greubel Forsey (where he contributed to the Hand-Made project), and Petermann Bédat (where he worked on split-seconds chronographs). This experience gave him the technical foundation to launch his own brand.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Alexandre Martin |
| Model | 1965 |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Diameter | 38mm |
| Thickness | 9.35mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 46.8mm |
| Water Resistance | 50m |
| Movement | Hand-wound, reworked CYMA 586 base |
| Power Reserve | To be confirmed (exceeding 36 hours) |
| Price | CHF 65,000 |
| Limited Edition | 12 pieces in steel |
A Thoughtful Approach to Independence
What sets Martin apart from many young independent watchmakers is his decision to present a completed watch rather than selling a "subscription" concept. "I didn't want to follow the approach of presenting a design, opening pre-orders, finding buyers, and only then developing the project," Martin explains. "I wanted to present something tangible – a watch in which I could place absolute confidence."
To achieve this, Martin chose to adapt an existing proven movement, the CYMA 586, rather than developing an entirely new caliber. The movement has been beautifully refinished with hand-brushed grained finish and bridges featuring beveling and inward angles. For commercial production, the entire assembly will be newly manufactured, with an improved power reserve.
Design Philosophy
The 1965 features a three-part dial construction with a small seconds subdial at 6 o'clock crafted from enamel in Anita Porchet's workshops. The white gold hour markers appear suspended above the dial, creating a floating effect inspired by Martin's passion for mountain activities like paragliding. The hand-polished steel hands are also inspired by high mountain gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Martin choose to adapt an existing movement?
Martin wanted to present a tangible, proven watch rather than selling a concept. The CYMA 586 base provided reliability while allowing him to showcase his finishing skills and attention to detail.
What's next for Alexandre Martin?
After the steel limited edition, Martin plans to release two additional limited editions of 12 pieces each in platinum and pink gold. His long-term ambition remains to develop complications, which is why he named his brand "1965" – to preserve future naming space for more complex timepieces.
How does this compare to other independent watchmakers?
At CHF 65,000, the 1965 is competitively priced within the independent watchmaking segment. Martin's background with prestigious manufactures like Greubel Forsey adds credibility to his work.
Related Reading
- The Rise of Independent Watchmakers: A Collector's Guide
- Understanding Watchmaking Craftsmanship: From Movement to Dial
According to Monochrome Watches, Alexandre Martin represents a new wave of young independent watchmakers who combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design sensibilities, creating timepieces that appeal to both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts.