"Creative ideas don't have to come from far away. They can be in front of you at any time – you just need to have an open mind."

In this instalment of Masters at Work, we delve into the legacy of H. Moser & Cie., an independent watchmaker whose design innovations and visionary approach continue to challenge the conventions of haute horlogerie. From the introduction of dials devoid of logos and indices to the brand's unyielding commitment to quality, H. Moser & Cie. is redefining contemporary watchmaking aesthetics. In conversation with CEO Edouard Meylan, we discover how revolution, beyond simply pushing boundaries, is rooted in respect for heritage and a deep mastery of craftsmanship, and what it takes to remain relevant in an ever-evolving industry.

The Maverick Pioneer of Watchmaking

Heinrich Moser was born in the 19th century into a family of watchmakers, and many regard him as a creative visionary as much as an expert horologist. Opinionated and driven by a rebellious spirit, his eponymous brand – once one of the largest of its era, selling hundreds of thousands of pieces – set itself apart by challenging the status quo of watchmaking. Through striking grand complications and an unwavering commitment to the highest quality standards at every step of production, H.Moser crafted timepieces of such refinement that few could match their excellence. Two centuries later, the iconic maison continues to operate in the Swiss town of Schaffhausen, carrying forward Heinrich Moser's maverick legacy and exceptional craftsmanship, while pioneering innovations that still reverberate through the luxury sector.

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Crafting the Unexpected: H. Moser & Cie. 's Modern Mastery

When Edouard Meylan and his brother acquired H. Moser & Cie. in 2012, the brand was far from its commercial peak. In an industry that had grown exponentially and was rapidly evolving, H. Moser & Cie. was struggling to maintain relevance and secure its place. Coming from a lineage of esteemed watchmakers and with extensive industry experience, Meylan implemented a radical shift: rather than following mainstream trends or adapting to prevailing standards, he chose to double down on the brand's audacious heritage. Embracing H. Moser & Cie. 's tradition of exceptional refinement and inherent distinction, he set out to build a foundation for consistent innovation. This vision materialised in the development of a fully integrated manufacture, capable of producing every component in-house to meet the brand's exacting standards—from the initial concept and design to the intricate movements, components, and even the notoriously challenging hairsprings.

"You need to be top of mind. You need to create something unexpected, and we love to play with that. When we launch something or do a collaboration, we want our community to be surprised by the ideas we come up with."

A new era in contemporary watchmaking design

Beyond world-class materials and elevated craftsmanship, H. Moser & Cie. stands at the forefront of design practice and avant-garde expression in watchmaking. Over the years, the Swiss maison has continuously redefined the codes of haute horlogerie, eschewing convention through revolutionary aesthetic choices, such as the now-iconic dials that omit both brand logo and indices. First unveiled in 2015 with the Endeavour Concept Watch "Fumé," this radical design language has since become emblematic of the brand's minimalist ethos. These pioneering visual cues have helped position H. Moser & Cie. as a reference point in contemporary horology, setting trends rather than following them. Today, a H. Moser & Cie. can be recognised at a glance, even from afar, because nothing else looks quite like it.

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The Endeavour: A Masterpiece of Luxurious Minimalism

Minimalist, yet far from ordinary, the Endeavour stands as the crowning achievement of H. Moser & Cie. 's celebrated visual research—a timepiece that masterfully balances the tension between modernity and classicism. It offers a distilled expression of quality, an elegant antidote to the complexity and relentless pace of contemporary life. Originally introduced in 2005 and swiftly becoming one of the brand's best-selling models, the Endeavour reached new heights a decade later. On the occasion of its ten-year anniversary, H. Moser & Cie. made a daring design leap: the introduction of entirely stripped-down fumé dials, devoid of indices or logo. This audacious move cemented the Endeavour as a definitive minimalist concept watch, and a modern icon of design purity.

Collaboration as a form of Creative Rebellion

Wearing an H. Moser & Cie. timepiece adds a twist of sophisticated rebellion. Owning one is an invitation to take part in a legacy—a culture where rules are written to be reimagined. For CEO Edouard Meylan, collaboration is key to keeping this spirit of innovation alive while staying attuned to the evolving pulse of contemporary watchmaking. Whether through the playful chromatics of "Project Passion," developed in partnership with Studio Underdog, or through record-breaking ventures with the Alpine Motorsports Formula One team, H. Moser & Cie. continues to bridge the worlds of elite engineering and high watchmaking—always on its own terms.

"What I like is the intellectual challenge that you get by working with others. Collaborating makes you stronger and expands your territory to play with."

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Endeavour Minute Repeater Tourbillon Concept Pop: a singular creation

This timepiece, unveiled at Watches & Wonders 2025, is part of the Endeavour' Pop Collection' – a limited edition series known for its bright two-tone dials. In keeping with the brand's minimalist tradition, the numerals have been omitted, allowing the flying tourbillon at 12 o'clock to take centre stage. At the same time, the exposed hammers and gongs bring the minute repeater to life in a visually and acoustically captivating spectacle.