GEVRIL
Gevril Watches was founded in 1758 – which was around the time when most of today’s oldest watch brands (like Vacheron Constantin and Blancpain) came into existence. Although Gevril Watches does not have the same level of public acclaim as other Swiss companies (such as Rolex, Tissot, and Patek Phillippe), it does have a notable history and origin. Now, Gevril Watches owns a sub-brand called Gv2. GV2 watches share the classical and modern look of their parent company and are sold under the same umbrella.
Who founded Gevril Watches?
Gevril Watches was founded by a Swiss watchmaker named Jacques Gevril. Gevril was born in La-Chaux-de-Fonds in the year 1721. He made his first chronometer in 1743, which marked the beginning of his career. 15 years later, he accompanied Pierre Jacquet-Droz (who was a well-known watchmaker at that time) on a trip to Madrid. This trip proved to be a turning point in his career and it was after this momentous incident that the company was established.
The Bygone History
Jacquet-Droz decided to make a trip to the king of Spain in 1758 so that he could exhibit his merchandise in the royal court. Impressed by the timepieces, King Ferdinand VI bought them for a price of 2,000 pistoles (gold coins).
Afterward, Jacquet-Droz returned to Switzerland but Gevril stayed in Madrid. He was appointed as the ‘Royal Clockmaker’ by the king and thereafter, he spent considerable time making clocks for the royalty and sharpening his skill.
In later generations, names like Daniel and Moyse Gevril continued the tradition of exquisite watchmaking. However, after the death of the founder, the reputation of the company suffered and it gradually lost the name and acclaim which it had initially gained.
A revival attempt on the brand was tried in the late 20th century, which proved to be unfruitful. In 2001, it was acquired by Samuel Friedmann and things started to look up. Friedmann penetrated the US market with some innovative releases that were geared towards the American audience. In the wake of this effort, Gevril Watches is once again climbing the ladder to reclaim the position and reputation it had first held in the time of its original founder.
