Sylvain Mairet — A Visionary Master Watchmaker
Born on February 5, 1805, in La Plature near Les Ponts-de-Martel in the Neuchâtel mountains, Sylvain Mairet is recognized as one of the most remarkable Swiss chronometer makers of the 19th century.
From an early age, he demonstrated a deep sense of precision and a tireless curiosity for mechanical innovation. His work embodies the harmony between rigour, beauty, and scientific craftsmanship that defines the finest Swiss watchmaking tradition.
From Modest Origins to Mastery
Orphaned at a young age, Sylvain was raised by his uncle Frédéric-Louis Favre-Bulle, himself a respected watchmaker who introduced him to the demanding art of marine chronometry.
In 1824, Mairet presented his first chronometer at the Agricultural and Industrial Exhibition of Bern, earning a gold medal — the first of many distinctions that would mark a lifelong devotion to precision and artistry.
London, the Crucible of Excellence
Between 1831 and 1834, Mairet lived in London, then the epicentre of high horology. He collaborated with renowned houses such as Hunt & Roskell and Benjamin Lewis Vulliamy, while forming a lasting friendship with James Ferguson Cole.
This period profoundly shaped his philosophy: combining technical science — mathematics, chemistry, and physics — with the poetry of mechanical design.
Innovation and Technical Signature
Upon returning to Le Locle, Mairet established his own workshop, creating precision watches built entirely to his own designs.
He developed a double-stem winding system and a keyless winding mechanism for twin-barrel movements — pioneering inventions for his era.
His timepieces are distinguished by ultra-thin cases, intricate engine-turned guilloché dials, and refined ruby cylinder and lever escapements.
Some models feature an elegant Réaumur temperature scale, a rare and poetic complication symbolizing his pursuit of absolute mechanical equilibrium.
International Recognition
Sylvain Mairet’s mastery was celebrated at major international exhibitions:
- Gold Medal, Bern Agricultural and Industrial Exhibition (1824)
- Jury Member, London Universal Exhibition (1862)
- Gold Medal, Paris Universal Exhibition (1867), honoring his influence on the progress of Neuchâtel watchmaking
He also served as a member of the Neuchâtel Observatory Commission, where his chronometers helped establish the region’s reputation for precision and scientific excellence.