Bernhard H. Mayer watches: collectible heirlooms

Evocative of a rich heritage known for high-precision craftsmanship in precious metals since the late 1800s, the Bernhard H. Mayer brand today upholds the timeless legacy of excellence once admired by European nobility and royalty through its exceptional watches. The brand Bernhard H. Mayer has evolved from the historic Mayer Mint, which was founded in 1871 in the jewellery and watch-making town of Pforzeim, Germany

Well-known for the unmatched skills of its mint masters in crafting all kinds of numismatics, the Mayer Mint was instrumental in crafting commemorative coins and medals to legal tender and other precious metal products. Today, the premium Swiss watches produced by the brand uphold the same rich tradition pioneered by master craftsmen since 1871. “Day & Night” magazine speaks to Bernhard H. Mayer, founder of the watch brand…

Are all the Bernhard H. Mayer watches handmade by craftsmen? What is your criteria when deciding to work with a craftsman?

Yes, they are all handmade by our skilled craftsmen. We’re committed to crafting timepieces that combine the tradition of watchmaking by our master craftsmen with the latest in horological advancements. We make sure that Bernhard H. Mayer watches are excellent in design, craftsmanship, precision, and lasting value.

What challenges you the most when you are conceiving a watch?

The most challenging thing is to understand what our customers will desire in the future. People’s desires and expectations change rapidly and we have to be very aware of what is happening in the Swiss watch industry at all times.

What is your source of inspiration when you design Bernhard H. Mayer watches?

The masters of crafting luxury watches draw inspiration from just about anything. It could be from our history, architecture, nature, art, and so on. It could also be from something that is vastly more out-of-the-ordinary.

What inspires me the most is the idea of giving our customers a product that fills them with pride. We want to create watches and jewellery that gives our clients excitement and satisfaction; an object that is so beautiful and perfect that it fills the heart of the owner with joy and happiness for years. That is the source of my inspiration and perfectly in line with the Bernhard H. Mayer family spirit.

What makes Bernhard H. Mayer brand unique?

The family history itself; this brand had its origins in one man’s vision almost 150 years ago, and is now developing a global presence. The meaning behind the brand name “Bernhard H. Mayer” also strengthens our brand identity. “Bernhard” means burning heart, and signifies the passionate desire to work for mankind. “Heinrich” means a leader or sovereign who guides his family or his realm, while “Mayer” is derived from Mayor, again a leader of a community

What are the most important factors you consider when you design a new watch?

The most important consideration is to know what your customers need and fulfil it through our timepieces. We have designed a variety of choices for our customers. Whatever be their style – classic, fashion, or sport – they would find a watch that they love in our collection.

Which would you consider more important – functionality or aesthetics?

We consider both equally important; that is why we meticulously design every timepiece to be pleasing both technically and aesthetically. That is why our creations are collectible Swiss watches that our clients can pass on to the next generation.

Which among your watch designs is your favourite?

This is a very hard decision. Each design has its own unique quality and beauty. If I have to choose one, I would say my favourite timepiece from the current collection is the “Mecanique Rose Gold”. The watch comes in striking rose gold, and its open caseback allows you to observe its 17 jewels that are carefully arranged throughout a Swiss Made Manual Movement – the most original of all movements. Therefore, this timepiece for me represents timeless elegance that is sure to appeal to watch aficionados, collectors, and fashion-conscious individuals alike.