Gay Frères: Exceptional craftsmanship and prestigious watchmaking collaborations

Founded in Geneva in 1835 by Jean-Pierre Gay and Gaspard Tissot , Gay Frères was a renowned family business, although the founders were not related. Initially famous for making handmade gold chains for pocket watches, the company diversified into watchmaking around 1900, becoming one of the world's leading manufacturers of watch straps.

By the early 20th century, Gay Frères had solidified its reputation as a leader in the manufacture of metal bracelets, serving prestigious clients such as Vacheron Constantin , Patek Philippe , Rolex and Audemars Piguet . Their innovative designs, such as the Bonklip bracelet , were highly sought after, particularly for military watches, due to their versatility and durability.

The Bonklip bracelet is considered a precursor to the famous Oyster bracelet, co-designed by Gay Frères and Rolex, symbolizing the excellence of both brands. Gay Frères played a central role in crafting intricate bracelets for iconic watches such as the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus , contributing to their instant success.

In addition, the company excelled in artisanal jewellery, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, producing intricate pieces that were highly sought after by collectors. Their expertise extended to precious metalwork, stone setting and enamelling, making them preferred collaborators of renowned houses such as Van Cleef & Arpels and Hermès .

In 1998, Gay Frères was acquired by Rolex as part of the brand’s industrial rationalization efforts, ensuring the continuity of bracelet production. In 2010, the company became the first certified member of the Responsible Jewelry Council of France, affirming its commitment to ethical practices.