From a working-class family, Philippe Dufour becomes a watchmaker by chance. After years as an apprentice at Jaeger-LeCoultre, he goes abroad to gather experience then sets up on his own in 1978. He exhibits his first creation at Baselworld in 1992. Two models made him famous: Duality, with two adjusting mechanisms, and Simplicity, a neoclassical jewel which has remained unchanged for twelve years.
1978
He sets up independently in a workshop in Vallée de Joux.
1992
Philippe Dufour is a sensation at Baselworld with his Grande Sonnerie chiming wristwatch.
1997
Launch of the Duality double winder watch.
2000
Advent of the Simplicity watch. The production of all pieces would require twelve years of work.