Meet David Candaux, a renowned watchmaker who has made a lasting impact in the horology industry. With an impressive career that includes working for esteemed brands like MB&F and Jaeger-LeCoultre, David has played a significant role in creating iconic timepieces such as the Jaeger-LeCoultre Hybris Mechanica Grande Sonnerie and the MB&F HM6 Space Pirate. In this captivating article, you will learn about David’s early years in watchmaking, his experiences working for other brands, and his own design philosophy. Part 1 of the interview dives into his motivations and the inspiration behind his work, with Part 2 coming soon.

Get ready to be enthralled by the fascinating journey of David Candaux, one of the greatest watchmakers of our time. From starting his watchmaking journey at the young age of 13 to launching his own brand, D. Candaux, David’s passion and talent shine through in every timepiece he creates. In this article, you will discover the influences that shaped David’s career, his experiences at Jaeger-LeCoultre, and his dedication to crafting unique, recognizable watches. Through this exclusive interview, you’ll gain valuable insights into the world of watchmaking and the mind of a true master.

Early Years and Motivation

Influenced by family involvement in horology

You were fortunate to grow up in a family that was deeply involved in the world of horology. Both your parents had connections to the industry, with your mother working on chronographs for Dubois Dépraz and your father at Patek Philippe. From a young age, you were exposed to the tools and intricacies of watchmaking, sparking your interest and igniting a passion within you.

Starting watchmaking journey at a young age

At the age of 13, you embarked on your watchmaking journey by taking up an apprenticeship. It was during this time that you began to truly understand and appreciate the art of watchmaking. By immersing yourself in the craft, you quickly acquired skills and knowledge that set you on the path towards becoming a master watchmaker.

Motivation behind pursuing a career in watchmaking

While your family’s involvement in horology certainly played a role in your decision to pursue this career path, it was your own fascination and passion for watches that ultimately drove you forward. The opportunity to work with intricate mechanisms and create something both functional and beautiful provided you with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. The combination of artistry and technical precision within the world of watchmaking captured your imagination and became the driving force behind your career choice.

Experience with Other Watch Brands

Working for MB&F

One of the notable milestones in your career was your tenure at MB&F. As a “concepteur horloger,” you had the opportunity to work alongside some of the most talented watchmakers in the industry. This experience allowed you to further refine your skills and gain valuable insights into the art of watchmaking.

Contributions to the Jaeger-LeCoultre Hybris Mechanica Grande Sonnerie

During your time at Jaeger-LeCoultre, you played a significant role in the creation of the Hybris Mechanica Grande Sonnerie. This masterpiece of horology showcases your expertise and dedication, as it is one of the most complex timepieces ever created. Your contribution to this extraordinary watch solidified your reputation as a master watchmaker.

Role in the creation of the MB&F HM6 Space Pirate

Another highlight of your career was your involvement in the development of the MB&F HM6 Space Pirate. This avant-garde timepiece pushed the boundaries of traditional watch design, incorporating innovative features and a truly unique aesthetic. Your creative input and technical expertise helped bring this extraordinary watch to life.

Insights and challenges faced while working for other watch brands

Working for renowned watch brands like MB&F and Jaeger-LeCoultre provided you with valuable insights and experiences. It allowed you to collaborate with fellow watchmakers, exchange ideas, and overcome challenges together. Each project presented its own set of technical and creative hurdles, but through dedication and innovation, you were able to overcome these obstacles and create exceptional timepieces.

Launch of D. Candaux Brand

Gaining experience at various companies

Before launching your own brand, you gained valuable experience by working at various watchmaking companies. This exposure to different approaches and philosophies in the industry helped shape your own vision for watchmaking.

Decision to start own brand

After many years of learning and honing your craft, you decided to take the leap and establish your own brand—D. Candaux. This decision was driven by your desire to create timepieces that truly reflected your own style and design philosophy. It was also an opportunity for you to push boundaries and explore your own creative ideas without constraints.

Vision and goals for D. Candaux

Your vision for D. Candaux was clear from the beginning—to create unique, recognizable watches with a focus on design, craftsmanship, and technical excellence. You aimed to blend traditional watchmaking techniques with modern innovations while staying true to the rich heritage of the craft. Your goal was to create timepieces that would stand the test of time and be cherished by watch enthusiasts around the world.

Unique features and design philosophy

Within your brand, you sought to incorporate distinctive features and design elements that set your watches apart from others. Your design philosophy revolves around symmetry, balance, and an emphasis on user comfort. By repositioning the crown for ease of use and utilizing materials like titanium, you ensured that each timepiece was not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical for everyday wear.

Part 1 of the Interview

Discussion of early years and motivation

During part 1 of the interview, you shared insights into your early years and what motivated you to pursue a career in watchmaking. You touched upon your family’s involvement in the industry, your apprenticeship, and your fascination with the artistry and technical precision of watches. These formative experiences shaped your passion and set you on the path to becoming a master watchmaker.

Insights into work for other watch brands

You also discussed your experiences working for MB&F and Jaeger-LeCoultre, highlighting the contributions you made to iconic timepieces such as the Jaeger-LeCoultre Hybris Mechanica Grande Sonnerie and the MB&F HM6 Space Pirate. You shared the challenges you faced and the insights you gained from collaborating with talented watchmakers.

Focus on personal design preferences

Part of the interview focused on your personal design preferences and the factors that influenced your creations. You spoke about your love for the iconic Reverso watch, which served as a source of inspiration for your own designs. The emphasis on design, symmetry, and the repositioning of the crown for comfort and usability were all aspects of your personal style that you incorporated into your timepieces.

Part 2 of the Interview

Upcoming release of Part 2

In Part 2 of the interview, you will delve deeper into your work at D. Candaux and discuss some specific timepieces you have created.

Topics and areas to be covered in Part 2

In the next installment, you plan to cover more details about the launch and development of your own brand. You will explore the intricate world of horology, focusing on your entry into the field, your time at Jaeger-LeCoultre, and the acquisition of intricate watchmaking skills. Furthermore, you will discuss design inspirations, finishing techniques, and the pride and success you feel in creating timepieces that reflect your personal style and preferences.

Introduction to Horology Career

Entry into the field of horology

Your journey into the field of horology began at a young age, with your apprenticeship at the age of 13. This early start allowed you to gain hands-on experience and develop a deep understanding of the craft. It laid the foundation for your future success as a watchmaker.

Learning at Jaeger-LeCoultre

Your time at Jaeger-LeCoultre proved to be a pivotal experience in your horology career. Under the guidance of Monsieur Fleury and other seasoned watchmakers, you honed your skills and expanded your knowledge of watchmaking techniques. The company’s rich history and commitment to excellence served as an inspiration for your own work.

Acquisition of intricate watchmaking skills

Throughout your career, you have acquired a wide range of intricate watchmaking skills. From complex complications to precision micro-engineering, you have challenged yourself to constantly improve and innovate. This mastery of various techniques and processes allows you to create timepieces that are not only visually stunning but also deliver exceptional performance.

Design Inspiration and Principles

Reverso watch as a source of inspiration

The iconic Reverso watch played a significant role in inspiring your own designs. The innovative concept of a reversible case and the timeless elegance of the watch left a lasting impression on you. The symmetry and balance of the Reverso became guiding principles in your own design philosophy.

Focus on design and symmetry

Design and symmetry are key elements in your watch creations. You believe that a well-designed watch should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also balanced in its proportions. By meticulously crafting each component and paying attention to the overall harmony of the timepiece, you create watches that are visually striking and balanced.

Repositioning the crown for comfort and usability

One design aspect that sets your watches apart is the repositioning of the crown. Understanding the need for user comfort and ease of use, you strategically placed the crown in a location that allows for convenient access while minimizing discomfort during wear.

Utilization of tourbillon movement

As a watchmaker, you have a deep appreciation for the tourbillon movement. This intricate mechanism not only enhances the accuracy of timekeeping but also adds a touch of complexity and elegance to your designs. By incorporating tourbillons in your watches, you pay homage to the rich history of watchmaking.

Material choices and emphasis on titanium

In your pursuit of creating exceptional timepieces, you carefully consider the materials used. Titanium, in particular, holds a special place in your designs. Its lightweight properties and durability make it an ideal choice for crafting watches that are both comfortable to wear and built to last.

Finishing Techniques and Aesthetics

Utilization of hand guilloché

Hand guilloché is a decorative technique that involves engraving intricate patterns onto watch components. You employ this technique to add a touch of elegance and artistry to your timepieces. Each intricately engraved pattern is a testament to your craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Application of enamel grand feu

Enamel grand feu is a centuries-old technique used for creating richly colored and highly durable dials. By employing this traditional method, you bring a timeless and luxurious aesthetic to your watches. The vibrant colors and glossy finish of the enamel dials make them stand out as visual masterpieces.

Creating a unique and recognizable watch

One of your key objectives in watchmaking is to create timepieces that are instantly recognizable. Through your unique design elements, such as the repositioned crown and symmetrical dials, you strive to develop a signature style that sets your watches apart from others. Each timepiece bears the mark of your distinct artistic vision.

Reflecting personal style and preferences

Every watch you create is a reflection of your personal style and preferences. Your attention to detail, choice of materials, and commitment to exquisite finishing techniques all contribute to the overall aesthetic of your timepieces. Your watches are an expression of your passion for horology and a representation of your individuality as a watchmaker.

Success and Pride in Creation

Consideration of the watch as a successful achievement

For you, the creation of a watch is not just the culmination of technical skill and design prowess, but a personal journey of self-expression. Each completed timepiece represents a successful achievement that embodies your dedication and craftsmanship.

Pride in the creation and design

As you release each watch into the world, you feel a sense of pride in what you have accomplished. The culmination of countless hours of meticulous work and creative exploration is evident in the final product. Your pride is not merely in the physical object, but in the satisfaction of creating something that resonates with others and stands as a testament to your artistry.

Conclusion

In part 1 of this interview series, you provided us with a comprehensive look into your early years, motivations, and experiences in the world of watchmaking. From your family’s involvement in the industry to your contributions at prestigious brands like MB&F and Jaeger-LeCoultre, it is clear that your journey has been one of passion and dedication. As you embark on your own venture with D. Candaux, your vision for unique, recognizable watches is brought to life through your personal design philosophy and meticulous craftsmanship. With each timepiece, you continue to push the boundaries of horology, creating works of art that stand as a testament to your skill and creativity. We eagerly await part 2 of this interview, where we will learn even more about your experiences and the watches you have created.