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Movado, a name synonymous with modernism and minimalism in the watchmaking industry, has carved a unique niche for itself through its artistic approach to timekeeping. The brand, whose name means “always in motion” in Esperanto, has been a symbol of art, innovation, and craftsmanship since its inception in 1881 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland.
The Early Years and Design Philosophy
Movado’s journey began with Achilles Ditesheim, a 19-year-old entrepreneur who hired six watchmakers and set up a small workshop. Over the years, the brand gained recognition for its innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship. What set Movado apart was its dedication to the art of watchmaking, viewing timepieces not just as functional objects but as artistic creations.
The Birth of an Icon: The Movado Museum Watch
The pinnacle of Movado's artistic expression is the iconic Museum Watch. Designed by American artist Nathan George Horwitt in 1947, this watch featured a strikingly simple dial with a solitary dot at 12 o'clock, symbolizing the sun at high noon. Horwitt's design philosophy was rooted in Bauhaus principles, emphasizing minimalism and functionality. This design was so revered that it became the first watch dial ever to be displayed at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
Innovation and Collaboration
Throughout its history, Movado has embraced innovation. The brand was one of the first to produce an automatic winding wristwatch and also developed the 'Movado Polyplan,' a uniquely constructed watch built on three planes to fit the natural curve of a wrist.
Movado's commitment to art extends beyond its products. The company has collaborated with artists like Andy Warhol, creating timepieces that blur the lines between watches and wearable art.
The Movado Edge: Reinventing the Museum Watch
In recent years, Movado continued its tradition of innovation with the Movado Edge. Collaborating with industrial designer Yves Béhar, Movado reinterpreted the Museum Watch with a new, three-dimensional design, maintaining the iconic dot while introducing a tactile, sculptural quality to the dial.
A Legacy of Artistic Excellence
Movado’s approach to watch design is a testament to its belief that a watch should not only tell time but also tell a story. Each of its creations is a piece of art, reflecting the brand’s deep-rooted philosophy that good design transcends time.
Movado stands as a paragon in the watch industry, proving that watches can be much more than mere timekeeping devices. They are expressions of artistic vision and design ingenuity. For over a century, Movado has not only kept pace with time but has also shaped it, crafting timepieces that are timeless works of art.
