Founded on the principles of innovation, elegance, and technical mastery, Piaget has cemented itself as one of the foremost names in luxury watches and jewelry. With a history spanning over 145 years, Piaget's journey from a small watchmaking workshop in the Swiss Jura mountains to a globally renowned luxury brand is a testament to its dedication to craftsmanship and excellence.
The Founder: Georges-Édouard Piaget
Piaget's story begins in 1874 with its founder, Georges-Édouard Piaget.
Georges-Édouard Piaget felt a passion for watchmaking from a young age, in 1874 at only 19 he set up his first workshop on the family farm in the village of La Côte-aux-Fées.
Born into a family with a deep appreciation for horology, his primary focus was on creating high-precision movements for prestigious watchmaking houses. The quality and reliability of his movements quickly gained recognition, setting the foundation for Piaget's reputation in the world of haute horlogerie.
Expansion and Innovation
In the early 20th century, Timothée Piaget, Georges-Édouard’s son, took over the family business and began steering it towards the creation of complete timepieces.
He transformed the company from being a manufacturer of movements to a creator of luxury wristwatches and pocket watches.
The brand's commitment to innovation was evident from the outset. Piaget was among the first to develop ultra-thin movements, a hallmark that would become synonymous with its name.
Although Piaget first sold pocket watches under its own brand name in 1926, it wasn't until 1943 that the company officially registered its trademark.
Following this, in 1945, Piaget established a larger manufacturing facility in their hometown of La Côte-aux-Fées. This expansion enabled Piaget to present its unique designs and innovations, paving the way for the brand's future achievements; laying the groundwork for the Piaget we know today.
This acceleration was carried on by the third generation of the Piaget family, Gérald and Valentin Piaget.
The Piaget Polo and Beyond
The 1970s marked a period of significant transformation and bold design for Piaget. One of the most iconic creations of this era was the Piaget Polo, introduced in 1979. This watch, with its distinctive design that seamlessly integrated the case and bracelet, became an instant classic. The Polo was not just a watch; it was a statement piece that epitomized the era's spirit of luxury and leisure.
The image above shows Yves Piaget, the man who decided to give a name to a product. Breaking from the brand’s tradition where style and lifestyle sufficed without product names. His family was initially resistant, but the American market demanded it.
A passionate horse enthusiast, Yves chose the name Polo. This decision marked Piaget's first sponsorship, aligning with the sport of kings, which was highly elite at the time. The watch’s distinctive style captivated many celebrities, including artist Andy Warhol, who owned two different models (one being a rectangular Polo). It also adorned the wrists of Swedish tennis player Björn Borg and his wife, as well as actors Roger Moore, Ursula Andress, and Steve Martin.
In addition to the Polo, Piaget also expanded its expertise into jewelry, creating exquisite pieces that combined the brand's watchmaking precision with the artistry of fine jewelry. This dual focus on watches and jewelry allowed Piaget to carve out a unique niche in the luxury market.
Technological Mastery: The Altiplano
Piaget's relentless pursuit of excellence in ultra-thin watchmaking reached new heights with the introduction of the Altiplano line in 1957. Altiplano is named after a desert-like plateau in Peru.
The Altiplano watches, renowned for their slim profiles, encapsulate Piaget's dedication to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking technology without compromising on aesthetics.
Its remarkable thinness captivated people, not only for its slender profile but also for its distinguished appearance and versatile design.
The Altiplano Ultimate Concept, introduced in 2018, set a new world record as the thinnest mechanical watch ever created, measuring just 2mm in thickness. This groundbreaking achievement showcased Piaget's ability to blend technical innovation with timeless elegance.
Commitment to Art and Craftsmanship
Throughout its history, Piaget has remained committed to the art of watchmaking and jewelry. The brand’s ateliers are renowned for their meticulous craftsmanship, where master artisans combine traditional techniques with modern innovations.
Piaget's dedication to artistry is also reflected in its partnerships with various cultural institutions and events, such as its long-standing association with the Cannes Film Festival.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings in a small Swiss village to its status as a global symbol of luxury, Piaget's journey is a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder, Georges-Édouard Piaget, and the generations that followed. The brand's unwavering commitment to innovation, elegance, and craftsmanship continues to define its legacy in the world of haute horlogerie and fine jewelry.
Today, legacy of Piaget remains at the forefront of luxury, creating timeless pieces that are as technically impressive as they are aesthetically stunning. As the brand continues to evolve, it remains true to the principles that have guided it for over a century: a passion for precision, a drive for innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Watch the videos here:
Inside Piaget by Swiss Watches Magazine
Discover Piaget Altiplano by Piaget
Written by:
Pooja Sharma Kautia is a distinguished Luxury Retail Trainer known for her extensive experience in managing large luxury stores and her unwavering client-focused approach. With a career marked by exceptional achievements in the luxury retail industry, Pooja has dedicated herself to training and developing top-tier retail professionals. She is passionate about gardening and reading. Pooja's multifaceted interests and her commitment to excellence make her a respected figure in her field. For more insights and updates from Pooja, connect with her on X or visit LinkedIn.
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