Dubey & Schaldenbrand
La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland · Est. 1946
Founded by Georges Dubey, René Schaldenbrand
Dubey & Schaldenbrand was a Swiss watchmaker founded in 1946 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, specialising in split-seconds chronographs and complications at accessible price points. The brand went through multiple ownership changes before ceasing production.
- Founded
- 1946
- Headquarters
- La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland
- Group
- Independent
- Price Segment
- Mid
- Status
- Defunct
Ceased: 2014
Dubey & Schaldenbrand struggled for decades with ownership changes and eventually ceased production around 2014 after failing to establish a viable market position.
The split-seconds specialists of La Chaux-de-Fonds — Dubey & Schaldenbrand made rattrapantes affordable before affordable was fashionable.
Key Collections
- Spiral — The brand's signature collection featuring distinctive spiral-shaped cases, representing their most recognisable and avant-garde design language.
- Aerodyn — A collection characterised by aerodynamic case designs with flowing lines, including the notable Aerodyn Duo featuring dual time zones.
- Index — Classic dress watch collection including complications such as the Réserve de Marche power reserve indicator, aimed at traditional watch enthusiasts.
- Grand Dôme — Collection featuring prominently domed crystals and vintage-inspired aesthetics, paying homage to 1940s watchmaking design.
Timeline
- 1946 — Georges Dubey and René Schaldenbrand founded the company in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, initially focusing on complicated timepieces.
- 1950 — The brand gained recognition for producing affordable split-seconds chronographs, a complication typically reserved for high-end manufacturers.
- 1995 — Cinette Robert acquired the dormant brand and relaunched it with distinctive designs including the spiral-cased models.
- 2006 — The company changed hands again, with new ownership attempting to reposition the brand in the competitive Swiss watch market.
- 2014 — Dubey & Schaldenbrand ceased production after failing to establish a sustainable market position following years of ownership instability.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dubey & Schaldenbrand
- When did Dubey & Schaldenbrand stop making watches?
- Dubey & Schaldenbrand ceased watch production around 2014, following decades of ownership changes and struggles to maintain a viable market presence in the competitive Swiss watch industry.
- Are Dubey & Schaldenbrand watches still valuable?
- Dubey & Schaldenbrand watches retain modest collector interest, particularly the distinctive Spiral collection and their split-seconds chronographs. Values remain relatively accessible compared to mainstream Swiss brands, though pristine examples of unusual models command premiums.
- Can I still buy a Dubey & Schaldenbrand watch today?
- New Dubey & Schaldenbrand watches are no longer available as the brand ceased production in 2014. Pre-owned examples can be found through specialist dealers, auction houses, and online marketplaces at reasonable prices.
- What made Dubey & Schaldenbrand watches distinctive?
- The brand was known for offering complicated movements, particularly split-seconds chronographs, at more accessible price points than competitors. Under Cinette Robert's ownership from 1995, they also became recognised for unconventional case designs, most notably the spiral-shaped cases.
- Who designed the iconic Spiral watches?
- The distinctive Spiral collection was developed following Cinette Robert's acquisition of the brand in 1995, representing a bold departure from traditional Swiss watch design with its sculptural, spiral-shaped cases.