Every year, on June 19th, we celebrate National Watch Day – a day to appreciate the artistry and heritage that goes into the watches that have become a part of our lives. The exceptional craftsmanship on display is steeped in a rich history, with the first watch dating back to the early 16th century, built by Peter Henlein of Nuremberg.
Read More: When Was the Watch Invented? It’s More Complicated Than You Think
On the occasion of National Watch Day, we at QNET India would to share the story of MUGNIER, a historic Swiss watch brand, and how it made its way to India. its arrival in India. QNET is proud to bring new, modern designs to India while preserving the legacy of MUGNIER’s centuries-old watchmaking.
MUGNIER – A Legacy Steeped in French History
Take a trip back to 18th century Paris, a hub for watchmaking excellence. Here, amidst legendary figures like Abraham-Louis Breguet, we meet the Mugnier family. Etienne Mugnier l’Aîné, a skilled craftsman, honed his craft at the Palais Royal, while Charles Mugnier le Jeune, possibly a younger relative, rose to become one of Breguet’s most exceptional watchmakers.
Charles’s timepieces were so extraordinary that they rivalled Breguet’s own, earning him the prestigious title “Breguet’s Pupil.”
While the exact family ties remain unclear, Etienne Mugnier le Jeune, or the younger Mugnier, rose to prominence as the official watchmaker to the one-and-only Napoleon Bonaparte. His masterpieces were sported by the emperor and his court, solidifying the Mugnier name amongst European aristocracy. This prestigious title continued through generations, with Mugnier timepieces adorning the courts of King Charles X and Prince de Condé.
The house of Mugnier’s legacy extends far beyond the pages of history books. Their creations are coveted by collectors, fetching hundreds of thousands of dollars at auctions. Pieces like the 18 ct. gold watch crafted for Napoleon himself stand as testaments to their artistry. Collaborations with renowned bronzesmiths like Pierre-Philippe Thomire further cemented their place in the world of luxury craftsmanship.
Crafted with Swiss Precision, Made in India
The MUGNIER story is one of exceptional skill, royal patronage, and enduring artistry. While the later years of the family remain a mystery, their legacy lives on through the timepieces they produced. Thanks to QNET India, watch enthusiasts in India can now experience this legacy first-hand. QNET brought MUGNIER to India in 2021, foreseeing the demands of India’s growing economy. With more and more people seeking a luxury lifestyle, it wasn’t long before the desire for a luxury watch was born.
MUGNIER timepieces are assembled in a high-tech facility in Maharashtra, India, adhering to strict Swiss quality standards. QNET India’s partnership with MUGNIER not only supports the local industry by operating under the Make In India initiative but also offers affordable luxury to Indian customers.
Read More: QNET brings Swiss watch brand Mugnier of King Napoleon’s fame to India
Every component is meticulously designed and produced, ensuring that each watch embodies the spirit of Mugnier’s heritage. Don’t believe us? Hear it from the man behind the magnificent designs of the new collection of MUGNIER watches – Rodolphe Cattin himself.
Want to know a secret? The Invictus Collection is his favourite!
Owning a Piece of History
National Watch Day is a celebration of the heritage that continues to inspire generations. QNET’s partnership with MUGNIER signifies the preservation of this legacy while making it accessible to a new generation of watch aficionados. With meticulously assembled timepieces that embody the spirit of royalty, QNET offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history.
This is your chance to own a piece of watchmaking history, a timepiece worthy of royalty. Explore the MUGNIER collection at QNET India and discover a watch that whispers stories of emperors and royalty. MUGNIER is for those who change time.
This National Watch Day, don’t just tell time, tell the story of a legacy steeped in rich history.
