Record Watch Company
Geneva, Switzerland · Est. 1903
Founded by Egon Frey, Alfred Gobrecht
Record Watch Company was a respected Swiss manufacturer based in Geneva, known for producing chronographs and triple calendar watches with in-house movements. Absorbed by Longines in 1961, its calibres continued to influence Longines production.
- Founded
- 1903
- Headquarters
- Geneva, Switzerland
- Group
- Swatch Group
- Price Segment
- Mid
- Status
- Defunct
Ceased: 1961
Record was absorbed by Longines in 1961 as part of the consolidation of Swiss watch brands that preceded the quartz crisis.
Record's split-seconds chronographs set records — then Longines absorbed the evidence and kept the calibres.
Key Collections
- Datofix Triple Calendar — Record's celebrated triple calendar complication featuring day, date, and month displays, often paired with moonphase indicators. These models showcased the brand's technical prowess and remain highly collectible.
- Split-Seconds Chronograph — Sophisticated rattrapante chronographs demonstrating Record's mastery of complex timing mechanisms, produced in limited quantities for serious horological enthusiasts.
- Standard — The brand's reliable workhorse collection offering robust timekeeping in understated cases, representing excellent value in the mid-century Swiss market.
- Record Genève Chronograph — Elegant chronograph models bearing the Geneva designation, featuring column-wheel movements and refined dial layouts typical of quality Swiss craftsmanship.
Timeline
- 1903 — Record Watch Company founded in Tramelan, Switzerland, by Egon Frey and Alfred Gobrecht.
- 1904 — Company relocated operations to Geneva, establishing its identity as a Geneva-based manufacture.
- 1930 — Introduction of the Datofix triple calendar collection, establishing Record's reputation for complications.
- 1945 — Post-war production expanded with chronograph models finding favour among collectors and professionals.
- 1961 — Record absorbed by Longines as part of industry consolidation; several Record calibres continued in production under the Longines name.
Frequently Asked Questions about Record Watch Company
- When did Record Watch Company stop making watches?
- Record ceased independent production in 1961 when it was absorbed by Longines. This acquisition was part of broader consolidation in the Swiss watch industry that preceded the quartz crisis of the 1970s.
- Are Record watches still valuable?
- Yes, vintage Record watches command respect among collectors, particularly the Datofix triple calendar and split-seconds chronograph models. Their quality movements and relative scarcity make them sought-after pieces in the vintage market.
- Can I still buy a Record watch today?
- Record watches are only available through the vintage market, specialist dealers, and auction houses. The brand has not been revived, so no new production exists.
- What happened to Record's movements after the Longines acquisition?
- Several Record calibres were retained and continued to be used in Longines production following the 1961 absorption, testament to the quality and reliability of Record's in-house movements.
- Was Record considered a prestigious brand during its active years?
- Record occupied a respected position in the mid-tier Swiss market, known for well-finished movements and reliable complications. While not competing with the highest prestige marques, the brand earned recognition for excellent value and technical competence.