Conversation with Bertrand Meylan, CEO and co-owner of H. Moser & Cie (pt. 1)

In the worlds of high horology and high speed, few names stand out like H. Moser & Cie. and Australia’s own Jack Doohan. With Bertrand Meylan at the helm of the revered independent watchmaker, steering Moser’s bold evolution, and Jack blazing his path on Formula 1 circuits, these two innovators embody a unique blend of heritage, daring, and modern vision. Today, we bring these parallel universes together. I am sitting down with co-owner Bertrand Meylan and F1 driver Jack Doohan for a candid conversation about precision, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.​

H. Moser & Cie has been described as an entry brand into the realm of independent watchmaking. Has that changed?

I wouldn’t say it has changed; I would say the world around us has evolved. Being seen as a gateway to independent watchmaking isn’t something we reject. On the contrary, it means we have made independent watchmaking desirable and accessible to a new generation of collectors. But H. Moser &; Cie. is no longer just a steppingstone. It’s a destination in itself. We have grown, our identity has sharpened, and our know-how is recognized. Those who come through the Moser door tend not to leave, but they settle in.

What would you say are the biggest reasons why the brand appeals to existing collectors or new enthusiasts? I know for some, having the company create their own hairspring is a selling point.

Maybe because in everything we do, we try to bring something new or something different. We try to remain authentic, to what we trust, to our values, to our DNA. Of course, there is the technical side like the fact that we produce our movements from Ato Z, including the hairsprings and regulating organs, which embodies our independence, but also our minimalist. It’s almost a radical aesthetic that gives space for emotion. Experienced collectors appreciate the depth. Newcomers see a way into a world that feels less scripted.

Would you be able to share some feedback you get from customers and what is Moser doing to address them?

We have a very strong community that is communicating a lot, is very engaged and supportive. They keep us agile, push us to refine our service, and encourage us to communicate our differences more clearly. One thing we hear often is the desire for a more personal connection with the brand — to meet the people behind the watches, to feel the passion. We have responded by expanding intimate events, boutique encounters and being more present in key markets. Moser isn’t an ivory tower. It’s a living house.

How did the idea of a collaboration between Alpine Motorsport come about?

This partnership wasn’t born from lap times or podiums, it came from shared values and a certain maverick spirit. Alpine has always stood a little apart: agile, bold, and unafraid to challenge the giants. That speaks to us deeply. We are a small brand with a strong identity, carving our own path in a world dominated by big players. On a more personal note, Alpine has been part of our family story for a long time. My father has always loved Alpine cars. So when the opportunity came up, it felt less like a marketing collaboration and more like a natural alignment. We’re not celebrating results. We’re celebrating a shared philosophy: independent thinking, a love of engineering, and the joy of doing things differently.

Are there any other industries that Moser had a thought of being interested in collaborating with?

For us, collaborations are about pushing ourselves further. The right partnerships force us out of our comfort zone, make us question habits, and explore new creative territories. That’s where things get interesting. But there’s one non-negotiable: the collaboration must resonate with our values and our philosophy. Motorsport is a great example of that, but it could just as well be design, music, digital art or gastronomy. If there’s no genuine alignment, if it doesn’t spark that creative friction we love, then it’s simply not for us.

Watches and Wonders 2026 – I read Moser will be in the main hall. Are you able to give us hints on what collectors are going to expect?

Joining the main hall feels a bit like stepping up to the Champions League. We have played our game our own way for years and now we’re taking it to the biggest stage. But we’re not changing who we are. We’re bringing the same independent spirit, the same irreverence, just with a bigger spotlight. I won’t spoil the surprises as mystery is part of the fun, but let’s just say we’ll keep doing what we do best: bold pieces, solid watchmaking, distinctive design. And of course, a couple of well-placed curveballs.

Talking more specifically about Australia, What do you see as the unique characteristics of the Australian luxury watch market?

Australia is fascinating because collectors are both highly informed and refreshingly independent in their tastes. They don’t just follow trends; they filter them through their own lens. There’s an understated way of living luxury, a kind of effortless elegance. And that aligns perfectly with our spirit.

How important are personal relationships between brands and collectors?

It’s everything. In the independent world, watches don’t exist without the stories that bind them to people. Collectors don’t buy into a brand strategy; they buy into a human connection, a philosophy.

Being in Sydney, have you already noticed any differences between the collectors coming from Perth vs the one in Sydney?

Yes, the difference is tangible. Sydney collectors are used to big launches and international events — they enjoy the tempo. Perth tends to have a more intimate approach, with deeper, more personal conversations. Two faces of the same vibrant market.

What would you recommend as the first Moser for new collectors?

The one that makes you smile without overthinking. But if we are being practical, the Pioneer is often the perfect starting point. It captures our DNA — in-house movement, clean design, a strong personality — while being robust and easy to wear every day, for every occasion.

This is Part 1 of a 2-part series. Stay tuned for Part 2 in the next blog post for the interview with Jack Doohan!

Looking at your first H. Moser and Cie and located in Australia? J. Farren and Price Sydney is an authorised dealer.