Cimier is a Swiss watchmaking brand founded in 1924 by Swiss watchmaker Joseph Lapanouse in Hölstein, Switzerland. Initially operating as Lapanouse SA, the company specialized in manufacturing durable and accessible pin-pallet escapement watches. In the 1950s and 1960s, the company industrialized simplified pin-pallet chronographs, achieving widespread commercial success before pausing operations in 1985. The brand was revived in 2003 and subsequently acquired by the QI Group in 2006, relocating its headquarters to Biel, Switzerland.
Enthusiasts are drawn to Cimier for its balance of traditional Swiss watchmaking heritage, accessible mechanical timepieces, and customer engagement. The brand is notably appreciated for establishing the Watch Academy by Cimier, an initiative that permits collectors to build and customize their own Swiss timepieces alongside professional watchmakers.
Key pieces in Cimier’s catalog include the 711 Heritage Chronograph, which pays homage to the mid-century Cimier Sport models using a modified Valjoux 7750 automatic movement. Other prominent offerings include the openworked Royal Skeleton, built on a modified Unitas 6497-1 caliber, as well as the TimeSquare Automatic and Petite Seconde models.
