Corum

Corum was founded in 1955 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, by Gaston Ries and his nephew René Bannwart. Ries had operated a watchmaking facility since 1924, bringing decades of expertise to the new venture. The brand name derives from 'quorum,' representing the collaborative spirit of its founders. Shortly after establishment, Corum introduced its groundbreaking $20 gold coin watch, which became an instant bestseller and signature piece. The Admiral's Cup collection launched in 1960, paying homage to the prestigious sailing race. The Romulus line followed in 1966, pioneering the bezel-mounted numerals design. The revolutionary Golden Bridge, with its linear movement suspended between sapphire crystals, established Corum as a master of transparent watchmaking. In January 2000, Severin Wunderman acquired the company and introduced the distinctive Bubble collection. Following Wunderman's death in 2008, his son Michael continued leadership until selling to China Haidian Holdings in April 2013. The group rebranded to Citychamp Watch & Jewellery Group in 2014, which now manages Corum alongside Eterna. René Bannwart, the co-founder, passed away in January 2010 at age 95.