Being a watch lover and a watch collector for some years now, I have always fed my passion following quality and history. Doing that from the very beginning, I started to study vintage watches being attracted always by the craftsmanship and uncommon, unique designs. After some years on vintage watches, I was obviously fascinated by independent watchmaking, feeling it had the strongest connection with the quality and uniqueness I have always admired from the past.

We have actually to say thanks to Daniel Roth for the concept of independent watchmaking in modern times. After doing great things with Breguet (a true resurrection in the 70’-80’ including the first tourbillon produced in series) he created his own brand and created amazing timepieces with a great mix of innovation and tradition.

The best period for collectors is the early one between 1988 and 1994, when the Master was free to decide everything by himself (design, production, marketing). Just remember the most famous models from that time: Tourbillon (C187), Retrograde (C127), Perpetual calendar (C117), 2 pusher chronograph (C147) and the uber-rare monopusher chronograph.

The most iconic model is IMHO the Papillon, created to celebrate the DR maison 10 year anniversary in 1998! This already happened in the The Hour Glass period (THG) but the Papillon project was completely in control of the Master and he designed a true icon! After 2 years THG declared bankruptcy and the Master started a new adventure under a new name, Jean Daniel Nicolas. The Master is still creating amazing watches today in 2020, producing them completely by himself, without electronic machines, not more than 3 two-minute tourbillons each year!

Finally some words for the Daniel Roth Chronograph I’m presenting here! The Model Ref. is the C147, it has a white gold case (dimension 35×38 mm / 10.6 mm height), the dial is made using gold and anthracite and it has stunning handmade guilloché lignè decorations. The movement is the famous Lemania 2320, a manual wind movement with column wheel and swan neck regulation. Like each watch from the first period, it has a production number engraved on the back.