LVMH Acquires Swiza, Owner of L’Epée 1839, to Preserve Haute Horlogerie Legacy
LVMH has announced the acquisition of Swiza, the owner of L’Epée 1839, a prestigious Swiss manufacturer renowned for its high-end clocks and intricate objets d’art. This acquisition underscores LVMH Group’s commitment to preserving and developing historic savoir-faire and ensuring its continuity for future generations.
A Heritage of Excellence
L’Epée 1839, based in Delémont in the Swiss Jura, has been a beacon of exceptional watchmaking expertise for 185 years. Known for its in-house conception, development, and production, the company specializes in creating clocks that combine technical prowess with unique creative vision. Each clock is a technical marvel, featuring complex horological intricacies such as perpetual calendars, tourbillons, and retrograde hands. Notably, some clocks boast power reserves of up to 8,760 hours, or a full year, a signature feature of the Maison.
Artistic and Technical Feats
L’Epée 1839 is celebrated for integrating artistic elements with superior watchmaking expertise. Each mechanical and design element serves as a creative ornament, blending form and function with a poetic or humorous touch. The company’s creations have garnered admiration from Heads of State, ministers, and royal families, becoming coveted heritage gifts during official visits.
A Legacy of Innovation
Founded in the 19th century by Auguste L’Epée, the company initially specialized in watch components and was a pioneer in music box production. Over time, it evolved to develop cutting-edge timepieces, including carriage clocks favored by traveling officers. Throughout the 20th century, L’Epée 1839 expanded its range of exclusive clocks, distinguishing itself with numerous technical and technological innovations.
Prestigious Collaborations
In recent years, L’Epée 1839 has formed prestigious partnerships with several luxury and watchmaking Maisons. Notable collaborations with LVMH Group Maisons include Tiffany, which launched a carriage clock inspired by 1950s Formula 1 cars to celebrate the reopening of its historic boutique on 5th Avenue in New York in 2023, and Louis Vuitton, which commissioned a hot-air balloon clock, a recurring symbol in its designs.
Craftsmanship and Expertise
The creation of L’Epée 1839’s unique timepieces involves a diverse team of more than 80 designers, engineers, watchmakers, and mechanics. Under the leadership of Arnaud Nicolas, CEO and Creative Director, these artisans continue to bring their skills and know-how to current and future projects.
Vision for the Future
Frédéric Arnault, Chairman and CEO of LVMH Watches Division, praised L’Epée 1839’s unparalleled expertise: “L’Epée 1839 is a brand of mechanical objets d’art with unrivalled and unique expertise. Its creations span the ages, from officer’s carriage clocks to space rockets and 1950s automotive inspirations. L’Epée is also a renowned manufacturer capable of developing and designing objects with the unique ability to interpret horological intricacies in three dimensions. Most components are produced in-house, showcasing its strong creative prowess. We will maintain and develop watchmaking partnerships with Arnaud Nicolas and are excited by the untapped creative potential within LVMH Group Maisons.”
Preserving Tradition and Innovation
With this acquisition, LVMH reaffirms its dedication to nurturing traditional craftsmanship while fostering innovation. L’Epée 1839’s legacy and expertise will continue to thrive under LVMH’s stewardship, bringing exquisite timepieces to a discerning global audience and preserving the rich heritage of haute horlogerie.
For more information, please visit LVMH.com.