Richelieu
Saint-Imier, Switzerland · Est. 1966
Founded by François-Joseph Pelletier
Since 1966, Richelieu has delivered authentic Swiss watchmaking — handcrafted in the Jura with movements assembled by skilled artisans. A quiet pillar of Swiss horological tradition, Richelieu produces elegant, classically finished timepieces for collectors who value genuine Swiss craft over fashion or celebrity.
- Founded
- 1966
- Headquarters
- Saint-Imier, Switzerland
- Group
- Independent
- Price Segment
- Mid
- Status
- Active
Key Collections
- Classic — The brand's core collection of elegant, traditionally finished Swiss watches with clean dials, Roman numerals, and understated Jura craftsmanship.
- Heritage — A refined line drawing on mid-century Swiss design codes, featuring slim cases and vintage-inspired details.
Timeline
- 1966 — Richelieu is established in the Swiss Jura, producing classically styled watches with an emphasis on traditional Swiss craftsmanship.
- 1990 — Continues steady production of affordable Swiss-made watches, building a loyal following among collectors who value genuine Swiss assembly over fashion branding.
- 2010 — Maintains its position as a quiet Jura-based manufacture, offering authenticated Swiss-made timepieces at accessible price points.
- 2025 — Swiss heritage brand continues producing affordable Swiss-made watches, primarily for the European market through traditional retail channels.
Frequently Asked Questions about Richelieu
- What makes Richelieu different from fashion watches?
- Richelieu is a genuine Swiss manufacture based in the Jura — movements are assembled by Swiss artisans, not branded fashion accessories. The brand has quietly produced authentic Swiss watches since 1966.
- Where can I buy Richelieu watches?
- Richelieu distributes through authorised Swiss retailers and select international dealers. The brand maintains a traditional distribution model rather than pursuing mass-market fashion channels.