HAUTLENCE WATCHES
Known for its innovative and avant-garde watches, HAUTLENCE was founded in 2004 in Neuchâtel. HAUTLENCE – whose name itself is an anagram of Neuchâtel – pays tribute to the birthplace of the watchmaking art.
Over the years, the brand has gained a reputation for its distinctive designs, incorporating complex mechanical movements and unconventional display mechanisms. It often blends traditional watchmaking craftsmanship with modern materials and technologies, resulting in unique and highly sought-after timepieces.
Since its inception, HAUTLENCE has continuously pushed the boundaries of traditional watchmaking, redefining the art of horology with its avant-garde designs and complex mechanical movements.
History of HAUTLENCE
HAUTLENCE was founded by a team of five: Renaud de Retz, Guillaume Tetu, with Jean Plazenet, Jean- Christophe Chopin and Alain de Forges.
The debut of the HL Collection in 2005 marked a significant milestone, introducing the distinctive HL caliber with a jumping hour display that captivated collectors and enthusiasts alike.
As the brand evolved through the years, the 2009 introduction of the “Concept d’Exception” series showcased HAUTLENCE’s commitment to innovation.
The unveiling of the HLQ caliber demonstrated an affection for cutting-edge materials, avant-garde designs, and intricate complications, paving the way for subsequent calibers such as the HLC in 2010 and the HL2.0 in 2011.
In 2012, HAUTLENCE underwent a noteworthy transformation with its acquisition by MELB Holding, which now also includes H. Moser & Cie. and Precision Engineering AG.
This move provided the brand with enhanced resources and global reach while safeguarding its autonomy. By 2014, the launch of the HL2.0 Collection solidified HAUTLENCE’s standing as a key player in independent watchmaking.
In 2015, the second part of the “Concept d’Exception” series was launched with the Vortex model. In a redesigned and technically reinvented version, the HL2.0 calibre still features the half trailing chain for the hours and a retrograde minute.
In 2016, HAUTLENCE launched the Playground collection, inspired by mechanical games. The brand expanded its offerings with the 2017 Invictus collection, which was designed to appeal to a new generation of watch enthusiasts.
The year 2022 marked a significant shift for HAUTLENCE under the new leadership of Samuel Hoffmann. Samuel introduced a new brand concept and product strategy, ushering in a period of fresh ideas and dynamism while maintaining continuity with the brand’s established direction.
The result is the Linear and a revisited Vagabonde, combining mechanical and kinetic artistry in a mesmerizing display of movement and innovation.
Notably, 2023 saw the introduction of the groundbreaking Sphere Series 1, a timepiece featuring a three-dimensional rotating sphere and a retrograde minute, earning the Innovation Award at the GPHG.
In 2024, HAUTLENCE celebrated its 20th anniversary with a special commemorative timepiece inspired by two decades of innovation, craftsmanship, and creativity.
With an annual production of around 200 pieces, HAUTLENCE has nine calibres designed and developed in-house, whilst also relying on external partners for the movements used in certain collections.
In strategic terms, HAUTLENCE can count on support from MELB Holding, an independent family watchmaking group that has been offering its experience and network since 2012.
