Watchatlas

Archimede

Pforzheim, Germany · Est. 2003

Founded by Thomas Ickler

Archimede is a German watch brand founded in 1996 by Ickler GmbH in Pforzheim, Germany. The brand produces entirely German-made watches using movements from Laco and Swiss ébauches, known for high-quality finishing and robust construction at prices well below comparable Swiss alternatives.

Founded
2003
Headquarters
Pforzheim, Germany
Group
Independent
Price Segment
Entry
Status
Active

Key Collections

  • Pilot — Archimede’s Pilot collection is the brand’s long-running family of German Flieger watches, built around clear cockpit-inspired dials, prominent crowns, and multiple case formats spanning compact 36/39 mm models, 42 and 45 mm classics, bronze and titanium variants, hand-wound references, GMTs, and chronographs. The line expresses Archimede’s practical Ickler-made case manufacturing heritage more than a single hero model. Key references: Pilot 39 A . M, Pilot 42 A . LS, Pilot Chronograph with light-brown strap, Pilot 42 B . S . LS.
  • Outdoor — Rugged sports watches with a utilitarian, outdoor-ready build philosophy, typically emphasizing legibility, screw-down security, and stronger water resistance for active wear.
  • DeckWatch — Archimede DeckWatch is the brand’s marine-inspired collection, positioned around classic deck-watch and nautical instrument aesthetics with a restrained, functional design language suited to traditional watch buyers.

Timeline

  • 1924 — Ickler GmbH founded in Pforzheim, Germany as a case manufacturer.
  • 1996 — Archimede brand launched, producing fully German-made watches.
  • 2005 — Introduced in-house manufactured cases, dials, and hands — one of few brands controlling all components.
  • 2015 — Expanded pilot watch range with bronze and titanium case options.

Frequently Asked Questions about Archimede

Where are Archimede watches made?
Entirely in Pforzheim, Germany. Ickler manufactures cases, dials, and hands in-house, using Swiss or German movements.
What movements does Archimede use?
Primarily ETA and Sellita Swiss movements, as well as Miyota calibres for some entry-level models.
Why are Archimede watches considered good value?
They offer full in-house German manufacturing (cases, dials, hands) at prices far below comparable Swiss brands, typically between €500–€1,500.

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