Gay Frères: Exceptional craftsmanship and prestigious watchmaking collaborations

At the source of exceptional watchmaking expertise

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 later specialized in the manufacture of watch straps around 1900 , becoming one of the world's leading manufacturers of watch straps .

A reputation consolidated in the 20th century

At the beginning of the 20th century , Gay Frères had consolidated its reputation as a leader in the manufacture of metal watch bracelets , serving prestigious clients such as Vacheron Constantin , Patek Philippe , Rolex , andAudemars Piguet . Their innovative creations, like the Bonklip bracelet, were highly prized, 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.

Jewelry expertise and prestigious collaborations

Furthermore, the company excelled in handcrafted jewelry , particularly in the 1960s and 1970s , producing intricate pieces highly sought after by collectors. Their expertise extended to working with precious metals , stone setting, and enameling , making them preferred collaborators with renowned houses such as Van Cleef & Arpels and Hermès .

Rolex acquisition and responsible commitment

In 1998 , Gay Frères was acquired by Rolex as part of the brand's industrial streamlining efforts, ensuring the continued production of watch bracelets . The company demonstrates a strong commitment to responsible practices , but the claim that it was the first certified member of the French Responsible Jewellery Council in 2010 is not confirmed on its official websites.