Christian Etienne: The Guardian of Time

Christian Etienne has earned his standing as a master of horology by reviving timepieces that might otherwise have been lost to history.

Working from his atelier in Porrentruy, he restores vintage watches with exceptional care for discerning collectors, passionate enthusiasts and some of the world’s most acclaimed watchmakers.

His mastery lies not only in the precision of his repairs but also in his role as custodian of the age-old traditions of watchmaking. By preserving these techniques, he ensures they continue to inspire future generations.

Among his most remarkable projects is his restoration of Richard Mille’s Planetarium Tellurium, a commission that reflects the esteem in which his craft is held.

From Preservation to Creation

After decades dedicated to reviving the past, Etienne made the natural progression towards creating timepieces of his own. Rather than launching a commercial marque, he chose instead to develop a highly personal collection that expresses his philosophy of simplicity, authenticity and mechanical purity.

Inspired by the restrained elegance of the 1940s and 1950s, his designs embody refinement without excess. Each piece bears his name, a discreet yet profound statement of his devotion to the very best of traditional watchmaking.

The 266-R-841R encapsulates his vision. It is a watch that respects history while offering collectors something rare and distinctive.

Movement

• Calibre 266, manufactured between 1950 and 1956
• Manual winding mechanical movement
• Diameter: 30mm | Thickness: 4mm
• Power reserve: 37 hours
• Jewels: 17
• Frequency: 18,000 vph
• Hairspring: Breguet overcoil
• Bridges: Lapped and plated in 5N rose gold
• Baseplate: Rhodium-plated
• Screws and regulator: Blued
• Crown and ratchet wheel: Radially brushed

Case and Dial

Crafted in 316L steel, the 266-R-841R measures 39mm in diameter with a depth of 11mm, offering both presence and comfort on the wrist. A twelve-sided screw-down caseback and sapphire crystal enhance its resilience and refinement.

The satin-finished silver dial, accented with blue details, is complemented by hand-blued steel hands and completed with a leather strap and buckle. Only five examples of this piece exist, underscoring its exclusivity.

Christian Etienne is not concerned with fashion or fleeting novelty. His creations are vessels of history and artistry, conceived with respect for craft and built with permanence in mind. For the collector, they are not simply watches but enduring works of horological heritage.