Pequignet

Founded in 1973 by Emile Pequignet in Morteau, France, the company began as a design-focused watchmaking concern. A passionate horseman and breeder from Haut-Doubs, Emile infused his equestrian interests into the brand, launching the 'Equitation' line in 1980 featuring horse head engravings. The brand also drew inspiration from exotic locales, creating collections like Moorea (French Polynesia), Sakkara (Egypt), and Massai (Africa). When Emile sought retirement in 2004, Didier Leibundgut, former marketing director at Zenith, acquired the company and transformed it into a fine watchmaking manufacture. In 2006, an in-house movement laboratory was established, and by 2010-2011, Pequignet unveiled its first in-house mechanical movement: the Calibre Royal, featuring 8 patents. Financial difficulties in 2012 led to near-bankruptcy, but the brand was rescued by Laurent Katz and Philippe Spruch (former LaCie managers). In 2021, Pequignet joined Enowe Excellence, a structure founded by Hugues Souparis to promote French craftsmanship, and launched the Calibre Initial movement. The brand now focuses exclusively on manufacture movements, with a tourbillon version unveiled in 2024.