Jaquet Droz watches are easy to recognize: a small dial for the hours and minutes sitting above a larger dial for the seconds, the two overlapping to form a figure eight. Behind that design is one of the oldest names in watchmaking.
By the numbers: Switzerland exported CHF 25.9 billion of watches in 2024, 2.8% less than in 2023, in 15.3 million pieces (9.4% fewer), according to the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry (swissinfo.ch, 30 January 2025).
The automata maker
The name comes from Pierre Jaquet-Droz, born in 1721 near La Chaux-de-Fonds in Switzerland. He was a watchmaker famous across the courts of Europe for his automata: mechanical figures that could write, draw and play music. Three of them survive in the museum of Neuchâtel.
The modern company is part of the Swatch Group and builds on that heritage with decorative crafts: grand feu enamel, dials cut from mineral stone, engraving and miniature painting.
The Grande Seconde
The Grande Seconde is the signature watch. Hours and minutes are shown on a small dial at the top; a large seconds dial sits below. It is made in many dial materials and sizes, which is where most of the choice lies.
The other lines
- Petite Heure Minute: an off-center time display that leaves most of the dial free for decoration.
- Ateliers d'Art and automata: small series with painted, engraved or animated dials, such as the Bird Repeater and the Charming Bird.
What to check on a listing
- The dial material. Enamel and mineral stone dials change the look, and the price, far more than the reference suggests.
- The dial itself. Enamel and stone dials are each slightly different. Look at the photos of the watch, and ask us for more if you want to see the dial in daylight.
- The edition. Many models are numbered editions of 8, 28 or 88 pieces. The listing states the series.
- The case metal and size, which vary within the Grande Seconde family.
Every watch we sell is checked by our specialist before it ships. We are an independent retailer, not an authorized dealer of the brand; the listing says what comes with each watch.
Browse all Jaquet Droz watches in stock.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Grande Seconde?
It is the signature Jaquet Droz watch: hours and minutes on a small dial at the top and a large seconds dial below, together forming a figure eight.
Who was Pierre Jaquet-Droz?
A Swiss watchmaker born in 1721, famous for his automata, mechanical figures that could write, draw and play music.
Why do two Jaquet Droz watches of the same model look different?
Because dials made of enamel or natural stone are never identical. Each has its own pattern and tone.
Is Jaquet Droz part of a larger group?
Yes. The modern company belongs to the Swatch Group.
