A Measure of Time
The story of Henri Grandjean & Cie begins in the canton of Neuchâtel, where the pursuit of precision shaped generations of watchmakers and laid the foundations of Swiss chronometry.
The First Workshop
David-Henri Grandjean (Henri's father) established his first workshop in La Chaux-de-Fonds. A few years later, he relocated his activity to Le Locle, at the heart of Swiss watchmaking.
Rio de Janeiro Branch
First documented presence of Grandjean retailing points in Rio de Janeiro and Lima.
A Magician Watch
In 1842, a magician watch crafted by David-Henri Grandjean was shown to King Frederick William IV of Prussia.
Chronometer No. 1
Henri and David-Henri completed their first marine chronometer, sold in Lima in 1832, marking an important step in their engagement with high-precision timekeeping and long-distance navigation.
Awarded in London
Grandjean pocket chronometers were awarded at the Great Exhibition in London, followed by further distinctions in the decades that followed.
The Neuchâtel Observatory
The Neuchâtel Cantonal Observatory was founded, with the support of industrial figures including Henri Grandjean.
Henri Grandjean & Cie
Henri Grandjean founded Henri Grandjean & Cie alongside partners including his nephew Henri Grandjean and Auguste Rossel.
60 Calibres Catalogued
French and English catalogues listed more than sixty calibres, including chronometers and complicated chronographs.
Trademark Protection
Henri Grandjean registered trademarks at the court of Le Locle and entered a new phase of the company alongside his niece, Oline Rossel.
A Passing of the Torch
Following the death of Henri Grandjean, the company was entrusted to Oline Rossel, ensuring the continuity of its standards and direction.
Rossel & Fils
Henri Grandjean & Cie adopted the name Rossel & Fils.
Reorganisation
After a transitional period at the turn of the century, production resumed in 1912 under the name Société Anonyme de la Fabrique des Montres Henry Grandjean & Cie.
A New Owner
The company was acquired by Paul Cattin, founder of Oris and Moderna.
Grandjean & Cie
A family-run company specialising in watch cases and engraving, extending Grandjean expertise within the watchmaking industry.
The Legacy Continues
A Name That Endures
Henri Grandjean & Cie continues in the same spirit that defined its founders— faithful to its origins, yet resolutely modern in its pursuit of excellence.