#INTERVIEW: Locman Montecristo

There is something mysterious and fascinating about an island, a place from which to observe the world with detachment, almost as if it were another dimension. This very concept inspired the creation of Locman’s Montecristo collection—a real island, Isola d’Elba in the Tuscan Archipelago, and also an imaginary one, the same that shaped the destiny of Edmond Dantès, the protagonist of The Count of Monte Cristo.

For Marco Mantovani, CEO of Locman, the connection between the literary character and the watch collection runs deep: “The island is a symbol of adventure and redemption, a place where you can observe the world with the detachment of ‘passengers from the continent.’” Born from the idea of capturing the essence of this mythical place, the Montecristo collection, first launched in the 1990s has become the heartbeat of Locman.

The brand has always focused on a blend of technical innovation and design that captivates both enthusiasts and collectors. "It is the most important collection of Locman," says Mantovani, emphasizing how the Montecristo line symbolizes not just the Tuscan Archipelago but an entire philosophy: sporty elegance combined with continuous mechanical evolution.

Mantovani mentions 2025 as a crucial year when the brand will introduce cutting-edge mechanical movements. This shift reflects Locman’s ambition to increasingly assert itself in the high-end watchmaking market. "We are raising prices because we want to offer something more," he explains, referring to the superior quality that new models will bring. Among the most iconic models of the collection is the Montecristo 500m, a diver’s watch that has successfully won over professionals in the field. "It was necessary," Mantovani admits. "The Montecristo 500m is a diver with all the trimmings. I wear it all the time." This watch is not just a precise instrument but a true companion for those exploring the ocean depths, confirming the sporty DNA that defines the collection.

If there is a phrase that encapsulates the essence of Locman, it is: “Don’t be afraid of not having courage.” Mantovani repeats this with pride, explaining how this motto has guided the brand from the very beginning. "It has always been a challenge," he says. "We are an Italian company that produces and sells watches in an industry dominated by Swiss tradition, but we never wanted to be Swiss."

This independent mindset is also reflected in Locman’s recent collaboration with OISA, another key name in Italian watchmaking. Together, Locman and OISA are working on developments that could redefine the concept of Italian mechanical watchmaking. Mantovani speaks enthusiastically about this partnership, hinting that exciting new projects are on the horizon for watch enthusiasts. In addition to quality and innovation, Locman is also ready to expand its geographical horizons. "We’ve organized embassy events in Istanbul," Mantovani says, referring to the brand's recent efforts to expand into the Middle East. The region represents a significant new market for the brand, and Locman is working closely with local partners to establish a strong presence in the near future. Opening new boutiques in the Middle East would be a powerful statement of Locman’s growing global influence, as Mantovani sees the region as fertile ground for bringing Italian design and watchmaking expertise to markets where elegance and exclusivity are highly valued.

When it comes to the future of the Montecristo collection, Mantovani’s vision is clear: to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation while staying true to the brand’s Italian roots. "Every Montecristo is a conversation piece," he says, referring to how each watch in the collection is an invitation to dialogue due to its remarkable design and eye-catching details.

And when asked about what makes a perfect watch according to Mantovani, the answer is disarmingly simple: "It’s love, it’s passion; it becomes difficult to choose just one piece." Because, in the end, behind every Locman, there’s something more than just mechanics and design. There is the Isola d'Elba, there’s a challenge, and there’s a heart that beats to the rhythm of adventure.

 

For more information: www.locman.it ; @locman_italy_