Jürgen Betz is a German entrepreneur and the founder of Borgward Zeitmanufaktur, a watch brand that honors the industrial legacy of the historic Borgward automobile company. Based in Efringen-Kirchen, near the borders of Germany, Switzerland, and France, Betz has established a niche in the horological world by blending mid-century automotive aesthetics with traditional German watchmaking. His professional journey is defined by a transition from a passionate collector and enthusiast to an independent manufacturer committed to preserving a specific chapter of German design history.
The foundation of Betz’s venture lies in his connection to the Borgward name, originally made famous by Carl F.W. Borgward, who produced automobiles in Bremen between 1939 and 1963. Betz sought to translate the spirit of these legendary vehicles into timepieces, utilizing the colors, materials, and interior design cues characteristic of the 1950s. To maintain this historical link, Betz operates a studio in Bremen, the brand’s ancestral home, while technical production takes place in the Black Forest region, leveraging the area’s deep-rooted expertise in precision mechanics.
Under Betz’s leadership, Borgward Zeitmanufaktur has focused on creating mechanical watches that serve as functional tributes to classic engineering. He has described the brand’s early development as a challenging but rewarding process, driven by a desire to create products with personal significance and a clear narrative. His approach emphasizes “Herzblut” (passion) and a hands-on management style, ensuring that the brand remains independent and true to his original vision of “congenial” design.
In addition to watch manufacturing, Betz has expanded his involvement in the industry through educational initiatives. He is known for organizing “Expert watch seminars,” where enthusiasts can gain deeper insights into horological mechanics and the craftsmanship behind the brand. These seminars reflect his commitment to transparency and the promotion of watchmaking culture beyond mere commercial retail.
Today, Jürgen Betz remains the central figure in directing the strategy and creative output of Borgward Zeitmanufaktur. His work is recognized for successfully reviving a storied German trademark through a different medium, offering collectors timepieces that bridge the gap between automotive history and modern horology. Through his dedication to quality and thematic consistency, Betz has secured a unique position for the Borgward name in the contemporary watch market.