Don't miss the next drop
Every so often, a watch comes across our desk that is simply, undeniably charming. It might not be from a household name, but it possesses a certain “je ne sais quoi”, a combination of elegant design, honest history, and soulful character that makes it utterly captivating. This Piguette is precisely that kind of watch. It’s a fantastic reminder that the world of horology is vast and that some of its most compelling stories come from smaller, regional makers.
While Switzerland has long dominated the watchmaking landscape, France has its own rich and storied history of horological craft, centered around the Franche-Comté region near the Swiss border. French watches from the mid-20th century often have a distinct design language, a blend of Parisian elegance and robust, no-nonsense engineering. Piguette was one of these proud French marques, producing handsome and reliable timepieces for the domestic market. The “Antichoc” designation on the dial was the French equivalent of “Incabloc,” indicating the movement was fitted with shock protection for the delicate balance staff—a premium feature that made the watch suitable for the rigors of daily wear.
This particular example from the 1950s is a masterclass in mid-century design. The 34mm stainless steel case is perfectly proportioned, with sharp, elegant lugs that give it a wonderful wrist presence. The star of the show, however, is the dial. It features a beautiful two-tone finish, with a textured, almost linen-like center section and a smoother outer minute track. This subtle detail adds a fantastic depth and plays with the light beautifully. The applied markers, a mix of stylized Arabic numerals at 12 and 6 and faceted darts, are crisp and well-defined. We particularly love the elegant, cursive “Piguette” signature and the flourish accompanying the “Antichoc” text—details that speak to a proud design ethos.
