Story Highlight
– Renaud Tixier focuses on mechanical watch fundamentals.
– Dominique Renaud influences modern Swiss watchmaking behind scenes.
– CEO Michel Nieto leads a dedicated watchmaking team.
– New micro-rotor system enhances automatic watch efficiency.
– First watch “Monday” launches in 2026, with seven planned.
Full Story
In a recent visit to Nyon, Switzerland, Rob Corder, editor-at-large, explores the operations of Renaud Tixier, a manufacturer that is arguably one of the understated yet influential entities in contemporary watchmaking.
While much of the industry is gearing up for product launches at Watches and Wonders, Renaud Tixier’s narrative emphasizes foundational principles and re-evaluates how mechanical watches harness energy. It marks the resurgence of a pivotal figure in Swiss watch crafting, Dominique Renaud.
Familiar to many collectors, Renaud co-founded Renaud & Papi, a technical entity that heavily influenced a cadre of independent watchmakers before becoming part of Audemars Piguet. Since that transition, Renaud has largely operated in the background, propelling advancements in horology through innovative research rather than through public exposure.
During the visit, Corder engages with CEO Michel Nieto, who previously led Baume & Mercier, now under Richemont’s umbrella. Nieto, along with his team, is dedicated to realising the philosophy of Renaud alongside his young partner in watchmaking, Julien Tixier.
Central to their innovation is the newly developed micro-rotor system featured in the RTVI2023 movement. This system aims to enhance the efficiency of automatic watches without complicating their mechanics.
The new approach will be showcased in Renaud Tixier’s inaugural timepiece, named Monday, set to launch in 2026. It is the first of a limited series, with only seven watches planned, each honouring a day of the week.
The design ethos behind the Monday watch is notably understated, allowing its mechanical features to stand out. Importantly, this marks the first occasion Dominique Renaud’s name will grace a watch dial.
Renaud Tixier does not seek the limelight; rather, it is focused on discreetly refining the art of watchmaking. An in-depth interview offers further insights into these developments.
