In today’s world, there are a variety of watch brands that span a wide spectrum, each with its own interesting origin stories and creators. As a trusted watch repair and service company, we’ve had the opportunity to dive deep into the intricate workings and rich histories of some of the most esteemed watch brands.
If you’re curious about watches, join us on a journey through time and craftsmanship. Discover interesting facts about some of the prestigious watches we’ve had the pleasure of servicing, including, but not limited to, Rolex, Citizen, Tag Heuer, Seiko and Movado. Read on to learn more.
Rolex was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London. The iconic Rolex crown logo that you see today wasn’t introduced until 1925. Rolex is also known for its innovations, including the first waterproof wristwatch, the Rolex Oyster, introduced in 1926. Additionally, the Rolex Submariner, introduced in 1953, was the first watch to be water-resistant up to 100 meters, catering to the growing popularity of recreational diving.
Today, Rolex watches are designed for individuals who appreciate timeless elegance, precision engineering and the status that comes with owning a timepiece.
Citizen Watch Co., Ltd. was initially known as the Shokosha Watch Research Institute, and later adopted the name Citizen in 1930. It was founded by both Japanese and Swiss investors. Since then, Citizen has grown to become one of the world’s largest watchmakers, renowned for its innovation and precision in watchmaking technology.
Citizen is most widely renowned for its pioneering Eco-Drive technology, introduced in 1976, which converts any light into energy to power watches. Today, Eco-Drive technology continues to lead the watch marketplace as a beacon of innovation.Additionally, Citizen developed the Satellite Wave GPS series utilizing satellite signals to ensure precise timekeeping anywhere in the world, regardless of location.
To this day, Citizen watches cater to those who value innovative technology, eco-friendly features and reliable performance in their everyday timepieces.
Tag Heuer was founded in 1860 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland by Edouard Heuer under the name “Uhrenmanufaktur Heuer AG.” Over the years, Tag Heuer has become synonymous with and precision in watchmaking, especially known for its connections to sports timing and racing chronographs.
Tag Heuer has deep roots in motorsports, having been the first Swiss watchmaker to sponsor Formula 1 teams in the 1970s. The brand’s Monaco model claim to fame was when it was worn by Steve McQueen in the 1971 film Le Mans. Tag Heuer also developed the Tag Heuer Carrera, named after the famous Carrera Panamericana road race, and is celebrated for its accuracy and sporty design since its launch in 1963.
Today, Tag Heuer watches are designed for individuals who seek a blend of cutting-edge technology, sporty elegance and a strong connection to motorsports heritage.
Seiko was established in 1881 in Ginza, Tokyo, Japan. Founded by Kintaro Hattori, Seiko began as a watch and jewelry shop named “K. Hattori & Co.” It later evolved into the Seiko Corporation, a global powerhouse known for its innovation, precision and diverse range of timepieces, from quartz watches to high-end mechanical models.
Seiko introduced the world’s first quartz watch, the Seiko Astron, in 1969, revolutionizing the watch industry with accurate timekeeping. The brand is also known for its Spring Drive technology, combining mechanical and quartz precision. Seiko’s Grand Seiko line represents the pinnacle of Japanese watchmaking, emphasizing precision, durability, and elegance since its debut in 1960.
Presently, Seiko watches cater to individuals who appreciate a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship, advanced innovative technology and exceptional value in their timepieces.
Movado was founded in 1881 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. Founded by Achille Ditesheim, the company originally operated under the name “LAI Ditesheim & Freres SA.” Movado is celebrated for its modern design aesthetic and minimalist approach.
Movado is known for its minimalist Museum Watch, designed in 1947 by artist Nathan George Horwitt, featuring a single dot at 12 o’clock symbolizing the sun at high noon.
Additionally, Movado created the Movado Bold collection in 2010, modernizing the brand’s minimalist aesthetic with bold colors and distinctive designs, appealing to a younger audience.
Today, Movado watches are created for those who value modern design, minimalist aesthetics and sophisticated elegance in their timepieces.
Watch brands have a rich history spanning over decades. The heritage, innovation and craftsmanship that define these brands make exploring and reading about them truly fascinating.
Whether you own a Rolex, Citizen, Tag Heuer, Seiko, Movado or any other watch brand, we understand how much you treasure your timepieces. Trust us with their care and maintenance. In addition to repairing the watch brands mentioned in this blog post, we also offer a variety of watch repair services for all brands of watches. Our expert team is here and dedicated to ensure your watch keeps perfect time for generations to come.
The watch repair service timing depends on the complexity of the task. The more parts it requires, the more time it’ll take. Generally, we quote a turnaround time of 2-4 weeks, but more intricate services may require 4-6 weeks or more.
At our Hudson’s Bay store locations, simple watch repairs such as battery replacements and link removals are completed while you wait. Discover the exact timing for these watch repairs at the store locations. If you have a watch currently being repaired, you can track the status here.