Clément Gaud is a Swiss industrial designer and entrepreneur best known as the founder and creative force behind the independent watch brand Laventure. Born into a family of antique dealers in the Paris region, Gaud developed an early appreciation for vintage aesthetics and historical objects, which would later become a cornerstone of his design philosophy. He pursued formal studies in industrial design, a background that provided him with the technical expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of product development within the horological industry.
Before establishing his own venture, Gaud built a professional reputation working for various established watch brands, gaining experience in design and conception. During this period, he honed his skills in sketching, technical drawing, and understanding the Swiss manufacturing landscape. In early 2017, driven by a desire to realize his personal vision of a Swiss watch brand, he became independent and launched Laventure through a successful Kickstarter campaign.
Gaud’s approach to watchmaking is characterized by a commitment to local production and high-value specifications. Based in Neuchâtel, he oversees every stage of the creative process, from initial hand-drawn sketches to the final assembly of the timepieces. His brand is noted for its “100% Swiss Made” claim, ensuring that all components are produced and assembled within a small radius in the Jura region, specifically between Neuchâtel and La Chaux-de-Fonds.
Under Gaud’s leadership, Laventure has focused on a business model of limited annual releases. The brand’s identity is heavily influenced by the “Voyages Extraordinaires” of Jules Verne and themes of 19th-century exploration. This is reflected not only in the vintage-inspired design of the watches—such as the Marine, Sous-Marine, and Transatlantique GMT models—but also in the unique packaging, which is designed to resemble old leather-bound books.
Gaud is recognized in the independent watch community for maintaining a “one-man show” operation, where he manages the design, logistics, and commercial strategy of the brand. His emphasis on scarcity, aesthetic clarity, and material quality has helped Laventure cultivate a dedicated following among collectors. Today, Gaud continues to lead the brand from Switzerland, maintaining a focus on limited-production mechanical instruments that blend historical inspiration with modern Swiss craftsmanship.