Watchatlas

Carl F. Bucherer

Lucerne, Switzerland · Est. 2001

Founded by Carl Friedrich Bucherer

Carl F. Bucherer, founded in Lucerne in 1888 and named after its founder, is the watch brand subsidiary of the Bucherer retail group. It is best known for its peripheral rotor automatic movement technology, unique in the industry and used across its Manero and Patravi collections.

Founded
2001
Headquarters
Lucerne, Switzerland
Group
Other
Price Segment
Mid
Status
Defunct

Key Collections

  • Manero — Carl F. Bucherer Manero is the brand's flagship urban dress-watch collection, spanning simple automatic pieces, flyback chronographs, power-reserve models, and high complications with a polished modern-classic personality. Key references: 00.10908.08.13.01, 00.10919.08.93.01, 00.10920.03.13.01.
  • Patravi — Carl F. Bucherer Patravi is the brand's sport and adventure line, currently centered around robust ScubaTec dive watches with high water resistance, COSC-certified automatic movements, and colorful expedition-ready styling. Key references: 00.10632.28.33.01, 00.10632.28.33.99, 00.10632.23.33.21.
  • Heritage — Carl F. Bucherer Heritage is the brand's archive-facing collection, translating historical travel and chronograph cues into modern limited-edition world timers, annual calendars, and high-complication references. Key references: 00.10805.08.33.21, 00.10803.08.32.01, 00.10802.03.13.01.

Timeline

  • 1888 — Carl Friedrich Bucherer opens a watch and jewellery shop in Lucerne, Switzerland.
  • 1919 — The company begins selling watches under its own name alongside third-party brands.
  • 2001 — Launches the CFB brand as a standalone watchmaker, separating from the retail business.
  • 2008 — Introduces the proprietary CFB A1000 peripheral rotor movement, a signature innovation.
  • 2018 — Heritage BiCompax Annual celebrates the brand's 130th anniversary with a retro chronograph.
  • 2023 — Rolex Group acquires Bucherer (retail) and the Carl F. Bucherer watch brand.
  • 2025 — Rolex announced shutdown of the 136-year-old brand, affecting approx 100 employees. 250 retail points to be phased out.

Frequently Asked Questions about Carl F. Bucherer

Is Carl F. Bucherer now owned by Rolex?
Yes. In 2023, Rolex acquired the Bucherer Group, which includes both the retail chain and the Carl F. Bucherer watch brand.
What is a peripheral rotor?
Instead of a central oscillating weight, the rotor sits around the edge of the movement, allowing a slimmer profile and full view of the calibre.
What is the history of Carl F. Bucherer?
Carl F. Bucherer was founded in 1888 in Lucerne, Switzerland by Carl Friedrich Bucherer. It remained family-owned for over a century before being acquired by Rolex in 2023. The brand is known for its peripheral rotor technology and the Manero and Patravi collections, and continues to operate with creative independence under Rolex ownership.

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