Watches of Switzerland invests in indies with Arnold & Son and Angelus joining the roster

Watches of Switzerland’s American operation has added Arnold & Son and Angelus to its brand line-up for in-store and online sales, although neither brand is offered on the company’s UK website.

America has proven to be far more fertile ground for independent watchmakers over many years than the UK.

There is a British connection to the partnership, with WoSG tracing its history back over 100 years in the UK and Arnold & Son having been founded by 18^th century English watchmaker John Arnold, a pioneer in astronomy, chronometry and world time that remain cornerstones of the brand today.

Watches of Switzerland will stock Arnold & Son’s Luna Magna, DSTB 42, Globetrotter, Nebula, Perpetual Moon, and Ultrathin Tourbillon models.

The maison has developed more than 20 movements in conjunction with its sister manufacturer, La Joux-Perret in La Chaux-de-Fonds, which also supplies movements to its stablemate Angelus.

In an era when low-volume independent watchmakers are increasingly selling direct to consumers, Bertrand Savary, Arnold & Son and Angelus president, says the passion and experience of professional retail partners is indispensable.

We are proud to partner with Watches of Switzerland, one of the first global retailers to champion the niche and independent brands. This collaboration opens new doors to introduce our timepieces to Watches of Switzerland’s significant global audience of collectors,” he adds.

David Hurley, Watches of Switzerland Group deputy CEO, adds: “As the premiere destination for watch lovers, we are constantly striving to bring our clients the full breadth of watchmaking. We are thrilled to partner with Arnold & Son and Angelus and champion their contemporary ingenuity and craftsmanship.”

Watches of Switzerland Group has been broadening its brand portfolio, particularly in response to rising demand for independents.

Among the artisanal indies it now stocked in the United States are MB&F, H. Moser & Cie., Speake-Marin, Ressence, HYT and Armin Strom.

Watches of Switzerland in the UK lists MB&F, H. Moser & Cie. and Speake-Marin online.