Our history
Established in 1867, Junod is the oldest watchmaker and jeweller in French-speaking Switzerland
A master watchmaker from a village in the Jura Mountains of Vaud called Sainte-Croix, introduces a new field of watchmaking to the area: under-dial work (creation of plates for repeater watches). From that time forward and until the end of the 19th century, Sainte-Croix would attract elite artisans, under-dial designers, finishers and master watchmakers. More than 160 watchmakers set up business in the area, creating a considerable economic boom for the region. The ensuing decades would see Sainte-Croix become the Vaud capital of the watchmaking industry and, especially, of mechanical art.
Ami Junod is born, a descendant of Joseph Junod.
Registered under the name “Ami Junod Pattus, Fabricant d’Horlogerie” [“Ami Junod Pattus, Watchmaker”] he opens his watchmaking workshop in a place called “L’Observatoire” in Sainte-Croix. A renowned and respected master watchmaker, he is also given the task of adjusting all the clocks in the village. The exact time is sent to him by telegraph each day, directly from the Neuchâtel Observatory.
Robert Junod is born; he goes on to study watchmaking.
Fernand Junod is born; like his brother, he goes on to study watchmaking and heraldic engraving.
Ami Junod leaves his village to establish himself in Lausanne. He opens a workshop on Place Pépinet, and later a watch, jewellery and goldsmithery shop at No. 7 Rue Centrale, near the River Flon. The shop is registered under the name, “A. Junod et fils” [“A. Junod and sons”].
With the help of his two sons, Ami Junod develops a huge, 3-meter high astronomical clock. At the time, this creation was one of the most complicated clocks ever made in Switzerland. Today, it is on display at the Centre International de Mécanique d’Art (CIMA) museum in Sainte-Croix.
They move to Place Saint-François in the Hôtel des Postes, near the entrance of the Grand Pont.
Ami Junod dies at 68 years old. His two sons take over the business, renaming it “Junod Frères” [“Junod Brothers”].
Robert and Fernand buy the building where the shop is currently located, at No. 8 Place Saint-François.
Robert Junod dies. Fernand and his nephew Pierre Junod, Robert’s son, continue running the business, renaming it “F. + P. Junod, A L’Heure Exacte” [“F. + P. Junod, At the Exact Time”]. During this period, the watchmaking workshop located on the first floor employs three watchmakers. Throughout his career, Fernand would engrave more than 3000 signet rings. His reputation spreads far beyond the Swiss border. He works for several noble European families, engraving their coats of arms, book plates and paintings.
Fernand dies, leaving Pierre Junod to run the company founded by his grandfather by himself from then on.
The “Bijouterie P. Junod S.A.” [“P. Junod Jewellery Store”] looks to the future, becoming one of the first pilot stores for OMEGA, and is recognizable by its black marble façade and its extremely modern layout.
When Pierre Junod passes away, the company is taken over by his son-in-law, Lionel Goei, who began working in the business in 1962.
After studying commerce, a degree in gemmology and solid work experience gained in both Switzerland and abroad, Nicolas Goei, grandson of Pierre Junod, starts working alongside his father.
The store begins initial renovations to celebrate the house’s 125th birthday.
A Chopard corner is created and the offices are moved to an entirely renovated 1st floor.
Inauguration of the Junod Museum.
Opening of our Omega certified service center.
Junod Horlogers Joailliers celebrate 150 years.