In the world of fine watchmaking, where tradition and innovation intertwine, three emerging brands led by founders all younger than 35 are making waves with distinctive approaches to watchmaking. From the historic streets of Rome to the vibrant cityscape of Hong Kong, and the serene Swiss Alps in Geneva, N’OVUM, Nectere, and Favre-Bulle each offer timepieces that tell compelling stories beyond their functions.
N’OVUM: Timeless Geometry from Rome
N’OVUM, born in Rome, captures the harmony of geometry and elegance in its ultra-thin polygonal case and sunburst black dial. Made with durable 316L stainless steel and protected by sapphire crystal, this watch is designed “not to follow fashion, but to transcend it.” The young founder’s passion for micromechanics and aesthetics drives this creation, where minimalism meets meticulous craftsmanship. The Roma model embodies a timeless elegance, bridging classical beauty with contemporary design—a true testament to creating objects that “tell the present through harmony of details.”
For more information: www.novum.watch ; novum.watch
Nectere: Finding Order in Chaos
Founded in Hong Kong in 2024 by longtime friends James Wong and Tony Yip, both under 35, Nectere brings philosophy directly into watch design. Inspired by the butterfly effect and chaos theory, Nectere’s first collection, Order From Chaos, features flowing, non-repeating case lines that reflect life’s unpredictable beauty. James explains, “Being a Buddhist, I’m very drawn to the unpredictability of life. From tiny, unpredictable changes, something big and beautiful eventually forms.” This ethos shapes the brand’s identity and design, as they crafted three dial models—The Forest, The Dune, and The Mist—each symbolizing moods born from chaos. Limited to 175 pieces, Nectere balances exclusivity with accessibility, offering quality that “exceeds the price point” and invites wearers to connect with the beauty hidden within life’s complexities.
For more information: @necterewatches
Favre-Bulle: The Soul of Swiss Nature
From Geneva, Alexandre Favre-Bulle, also under 35, channels his lifelong watchmaking passion into the Three Peaks collection, inspired by the majestic Swiss Alps. The watches feature meticulously designed dials that evoke alpine landscapes—fir forests, glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and sunsets—through carefully chosen textures and colors. The 316L stainless steel case, complemented by a Joux-Perret automatic chronograph movement, reflects both durability and refinement. Favre-Bulle’s philosophy encourages wearers to “stop, be present, and savor each moment,” inviting a deeper appreciation of everyday beauty through timeless craftsmanship.
For more information: www.favre-bulle-watches.com ; @favrebullewatches
Together, these young founders and their brands—N’OVUM, Nectere, and Favre-Bulle—illustrate how modern watchmaking transcends mere function, becoming a medium for storytelling, philosophy, and artistry. They remind us that a watch can be a symbol of personal connection, a reflection of nature, and a celebration of life’s intricate beauty.