Emile Chouriet Challenger Deep
Jean Depéry knows watchmaking. His family have been in the watchmaking world as far back as the 1700s, a passion that he himself shares. So much so, that rather than follow in his father’s footsteps as a notary, he delved headfirst into a degree in microtechnology to become an engineer.
In 1998 he was ready to not only indulge in his passion for horology, but to create an entirely new watch brand, one he dubbed Emile Chouriet. The name however was far from new; it was a way for Jean to pay tribute to his ancestor François Dagobert Depéry, who build parts for the original brand – which in turn goes some way to illustrating the ethos behind the contemporary Emile Chouriet’s approach to watchmaking.
Emile Chourie Héritier à Guichet
There are some differences of course; for one, the original brand specialised in onion pocket watches rather than the wristwatches of today. In terms of style, craft and uncompromising attention to detail however, Jean Depéry has captured the essence of traditional Genevan watchmaking.
You can say less is more all you like, but for Emile Chouriet a deft hand lends itself to the ornate. Just take as the clearest example the brand’s signature lugs. They go beyond fluted; you could even call them winged. They do more than just hold the bracelet on, they give the entire case a shape unique to Emile Chouriet.
Emile Chourie Ice Cliff
That level of extravagant detail continues throughout the watches, too. The Ailes du Temps – Emile Chouriet’s first and flagship model – is available on two completely, equally-ornate bezels and dials, with a superlative level of finishing, complete with guilloche and applied indexes. It doesn’t matter whether they are high complications or not, these watches leave little doubt as to Emile Chouriet’s haute horology credentials.
Emile Chouriet Ailes du Temps Ladies Watch (left) and Tourbillon (right)
Those credentials continue throughout every aspect of the brand, from the more restrained Historique collection, to the sporty Challenger Deep and the aptly-named Contemporary Luxury timepiece. If you’re after Bauhaus cool or contemporary minimalism, this is not the watch brand for you. If, however, you appreciate traditional Genevan craftsmanship taken to decadent levels, then nothing else will do.
Find out more at www.emilechouriet.ch
