The first page of history in the House of BOVET starts when in 1818 Edouard BOVET sold 4 pocket watches to the Emperor of China who became a devoted collector. It is the extraordinary heritage that links the rooms of the Forbidden City to the vastness of the Kremlin which summarises this exhibit. An open view on the future ensures a unrivalled know-how for the most noble expression of time.
At the dawn of the 19th century, Edouard Bovet took the decorative arts – and miniature enameling in particular – to new heights, establishing the standards of Swiss watchmaking in the process. In accordance with the conventions of the time, he employed the best watchmakers in the Val-de-Travers and entrusted the case decoration to the enamellers whose workshops were located in Geneva. The greatest artists of this golden age continue to contribute today to the reputation of BOVET 1822 timepieces.
Today, Pascal Raffy, the owner of BOVET 1822 and the Dimier 1738 Manufacture, is once again asserting his desire to safeguard and perpetuate the traditional decorative arts of watchmaking consistent with the noblest expression of time. He has naturally insisted on employing the same working methods, the same techniques and the same rigor as his illustrious predecessors in this new collection, which has undeniably redefined the very concept of excellence.
This feat is all the more impressive given that today’s timepieces diameters are smaller than those of 19th century pocket watches. It is thus the shared values for uniqueness and passion for fine art that has brought together Mr. Raffy and Ilgiz Fazulzyanov.
The specialists designate him as the heir of the most illustrious enameller of history as Lissignol, Richter, Liotard or even Huaut. Many on this list of non-exhaustive artists that made the reputation of the enamels from Geneva have moreover collaborated with the House of BOVET in the 19th century.
You can experience the exhibition at the Kremlin Museum, Moscow as of March 31st.