Atelier de Chronométrie

Overview

Atelier de Chronométrie is a high-end independent watchmaker specializing in bespoke, one-of-a-kind timepieces inspired by vintage aesthetics from the 1930s and 1940s. The brand is known for its commitment to traditional artisanal watchmaking methods, handcrafted components, and meticulous attention to detail. Operating as a small manufacture with a core team of three people, the company has gained recognition within independent watchmaking circles despite its limited annual output of approximately 10 watches per year.

History

Founded in 2014 by Santiago Martínez and Montse Gimeno—a married couple of vintage watch collectors and dealers—Atelier de Chronométrie officially established their workshop in Barcelona in 2016 with the debut of the AdC1, an Observatoire Chronométre certified timepiece. The brand achieved international recognition in 2020 when their AdC8 split-second chronograph was nominated for the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève. In 2021, they donated the AdC21OW to the Only Watch charity auction, where it sold for CHF 95,000, significantly exceeding estimates and cementing their reputation as serious artisan watchmakers. The founders previously operated Mimandcroket, a vintage watch sales enterprise established in 2009 that remains active.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Watches are produced in Barcelona with a combination of in-house handcrafting and collaboration with a network of local artisans and specialized suppliers. The brand has historically focused on restoring and hand-finishing vintage chronometer movements, with recent development of their first in-house movement. All components are handmade using traditional methods, with limited customization available for each bespoke commission.

Notable Products

• AdC1 - Inaugural timepiece powered by a restored Omega calibre 266 movement, certified by Besançon Observatory, paying homage to 1950s competition chronometers.
• AdC8 - First split-second chronograph by the brand, nominated for the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève in 2020.
• AdC21OW - 18k pink gold time-only watch with retro-inspired sector dial, donated to Only Watch 2021 charity auction where it sold for CHF 95,000.

Reputation

Atelier de Chronométrie is regarded as a serious independent manufacture despite its youth and small size, with particular respect for its unwavering commitment to traditional watchmaking and refusal to compromise through investor backing. The brand has earned cult status among vintage watch enthusiasts and collectors for its refined aesthetic sensibility and meticulous execution. Strengths include exceptional craftsmanship, innovative use of vintage movements, and successful collaborations with international retailers and auction houses. The primary limitation is extremely limited production capacity, making watches difficult to acquire outside of direct commission or auction.