Watchatlas

Cimier

Biel/Bienne, Switzerland · Est. 1924

Founded by Joseph Lapanouse

Founded in 1924, Cimier embodies a warm and accessible Swiss watchmaking spirit where tradition meets contemporary style. Based in Biel/Bienne, the brand produces refined mechanical and quartz timepieces with a strong vintage sensibility, offering authentic Swiss heritage at accessible price points.

Founded
1924
Headquarters
Biel/Bienne, Switzerland
Group
Independent
Price Segment
Mid
Status
Active

Key Collections

  • Big Matic (2011) — Cimier’s Big Matic is a large-format mechanical collection built around the brand’s proprietary automatic module for the Unitas 6497-1, combining oversized presence with a classically technical Swiss-Mechanical feel. Key references: Big Matic 16 ½, Big Matic.

Timeline

  • 1924 — Joseph Lapanouse founds the company in Hölstein, Switzerland, manufacturing pin-pallet escapement watches.
  • 1929 — Armand Lapanouse patents a movement frame for Roskopf watches, improving robust movement production.
  • 1960 — Cimier becomes the first to industrialise pin-pallet chronograph production, selling 20 million calibres of the 'Cimier Sport.'
  • 1970 — Peak production reaches 1.5 million pieces per year with over 500 employees in Bubendorf.
  • 1985 — The Lapanouse family discontinues Cimier during the quartz crisis.
  • 2003 — Cimier is revived, re-entering the market with a focus on affordable Swiss mechanical watches.
  • 2011 — Develops the Big Matic automatic module for the Unitas 6497-1 movement.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cimier

What happened to Cimier during the quartz crisis?
Cimier invested heavily in quartz development but the Lapanouse family ultimately pulled out in 1985. The brand was revived in 2003 with a renewed focus on mechanical watches.
What was the Cimier Sport?
A groundbreaking affordable chronograph from the 1960s using a simplified pin-pallet escapement. It was a massive commercial success, with 20 million calibres sold worldwide.

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