Speake Marin’s history has been like two impeccably-engraved sides of the same coin. British watchmaker Peter Speake, a Hackney Technical College contemporary of Stephen Forsey and part of the visionary generation that gave watchmaking Max Büsser and Kari Voutilainen, somewhat reinvented the wheel when he founded the Maison in 2002. In fact, the wheel became the symbol of Speake Marin due to – according to him – it being the component that the watch is built on. His unique blend of turn-of-the-20th-century watchmaking spirit and a determined eye on the future with his ‘form follows function’ philosophy brought an intensely desirable and refreshingly different Maison with palpable heart and soul to the fore. It was a work of passion, with former watch restorer Peter bringing whatever model he could create in his head and fashion in metal to the market.
In contrast, when Christelle Rosnoblet took charge, her entrepreneurial spirit and focus reined in and distilled Speake Marin’s wild spirit and classic character. The onus fell on bringing all movement production in-house and streamlining the Maison’s offerings, with strong, recognisable collections and distinctive touches quickly taking shape. A different approach, but the same passion, made the yin and yang of the brand’s first two decades fit together impeccably – and it was Christelle who made the stars align.
Here, GMT GCC gets to know Speake Marin’s ardent caretaker, who tasked herself with what every watch geek imagines to be their dream job. So is it? Let’s find out…
I believe that you were a watch enthusiast before becoming involved with Speake Marin in 2012 – can you tell me more about your love for horology, where it began and how it brought you to Speake Marin?
Twelve years ago, during a family meeting, we were discussing new investment projects. Based in Annecy, we were also looking towards Switzerland. We wanted to diversify beyond the retail industry: chocolate, medical, startups in new technologies — everything was on the table. However, it was my passion for watchmaking that guided the choice, as if it were meant to be. At that time, the Geneva Time Exhibition, the first independent watchmaking trade show, was taking place. It was there in 2011 that I met numerous watchmakers, including Peter Speake. Most of them were seeking an investor, but one who would remain ‘silent’. However, it was clear to me that I wanted to be involved in strategic decisions and bring an outsider’s perspective to the profession. Peter welcomed the idea warmly as he saw it as an opportunity for him to ‘lift his head from the helm’. The adventure began at that moment.
I’d love to know a little more about you – where you grew up, what your interests were during your childhood, what did you dream of doing when you were little?
I was born in the French Northern Alps, and I’m the granddaughter and daughter of a successful entrepreneurial family, pioneers of modern trade in my region. I was raised on the banks of Annecy Lake, instilled with a deep appreciation for hard work, a drive for innovation, and a spirit of freedom. I’ve been collecting Swatch watches since I was very young, and my passion for watchmaking has grown over the years… I’m deeply passionate about watchmaking, captivated by its codes, its quest for perfection and its sense of aesthetics. I find in watchmaking the values that surrounded me during my childhood: respect, heritage, a sense of sharing and a commitment to excellence.
What sort of businesses were you involved with before taking your role at Speake Marin?
I wanted to gain experience on my own first. I went to live in New York to perfect my English, which allowed me to join the WHO in Geneva for three years. Then I joined the family project and the Provencia group, where I started by developing the hard discount business.
It’s now 12 years since you took the helm at Speake Marin – has it been a rollercoaster ride or has the pace been more sedate? What have been the biggest highs and lows?
Without hesitation, the greatest challenge for an independent brand is to deliver exceptional products on time! We produce limited editions in small quantities, crafting fewer than 700 watches per year. Despite our small size in the watchmaking industry, we aim for excellence, which is why we strategically partner exclusively with suppliers located in Switzerland, spanning La Chaux-de-Fonds, Biel and Geneva.
Our primary challenge lies in achieving the delicate balance between demand and delivery times. If our order books are full but we promise delivery in two years, it can become quite challenging to manage. Today, with the organisation and processes established at Cercle des Horlogers, we can deliver in less than four months which significantly impacts many aspects of our operations.
Distribution remains a major hurdle for independent brands. Currently, our focus is on the Middle East, where demand is strong, the United States, Asia – soon in China – and Switzerland. We have redesigned our distribution strategy to collaborate solely with partners who are genuinely passionate about independent brands, recognised by collectors, and deeply invested in Speake Marin’s story.
What would you say have been your biggest achievements at Speake Marin?
My greatest achievements at Speake Marin include developing, producing and assembling our in-house movements. My proudest and distinctive horological accomplishments are the Double Vertical Tourbillon, the Minute Repeater with three hammers, placing the small seconds at 1:30 o’ clock, and integrating a micro-rotor in all our watches. All these developments have been achieved internally over a 12-year period.
Before you came to the Maison, Speake Marin mostly produced unique, bespoke pieces. Why did you decide to change this model?
The initial idea of creating on-demand products was very appealing, but not viable in the long term. To survive, it was necessary to develop real collections, new products and always maintain a strong brand DNA.
Who buys Speake Marin watches? Who do you and your team keep in mind during the design process?
Our customers are primarily attracted by our distinctive design, superb Swiss craftsmanship and – above all – our limited editions. They seek what cannot be found in other brands, avoiding clichés. I would also say that our customers look for values that resonate with their own identity. They are looking for a deep respect for horological tradition, as well as the humanity and kindness that characterise our Maison. It is this combination of elements that brings us increased recognition today, and we owe our success to our watch collectors. They are the brand’s discreet ambassadors, but we intend to put them in the spotlight in the near future.
We at GMT GCC very proudly showcased the Openworked Tourbillon Ultra Violet, which was launched at Watches and Wonders, on the cover of our last issue – how was the watch received? What was behind the choice to use such a vivid hue?
We loved our coverage in GMT GCC; it was very impactful and punchy, perfectly embodying the spirit of Speake Marin. I like to see the bright side of life, and the colour adds a touch of harmony. Above all, violet soothes and gives the product unparalleled dynamism. The colours created by Positive Coating are designed and developed with great care and attention. It was a beautiful creative collaboration between us.
The Ripples Dune Date, presented at this year’s Watches and Wonders in Geneva.
We at GMT GCC very proudly showcased the Openworked Tourbillon Ultra Violet, which was launched at Watches and Wonders, on the cover of our last issue – how was the watch received? What was behind the choice to use such a vivid hue?
We loved our coverage in GMT GCC; it was very impactful and punchy, perfectly embodying the spirit of Speake Marin. I like to see the bright side of life, and the colour adds a touch of harmony. Above all, violet soothes and gives the product unparalleled dynamism. The colours created by Positive Coating are designed and developed with great care and attention. It was a beautiful creative collaboration between us.
My personal favourite Watches and Wonders 2024 launch was the truly mesmerising Ripples Dune Date – although I was disappointed to learn that every single piece was sold by the time I got my hands on one! It’s so perfect for our Middle Eastern region – was that the idea behind the piece? Are there any plans to reissue it?
Our Ripples Dune Date watch has been sold 100 per cent to our partners worldwide. However, rest assured, you can still find it in their stores. We do not plan to reissue it, as it was a limited edition of only 60 pieces.
Can you let us in on any special pieces that you have in the pipeline?
You will have to wait a few more weeks to discover our new release at Geneva Watch Days, the result of two years of research and development. Furthermore, you’ll need to remain patient as we prepare to unveil an exceptionally exciting new release in 2025.
When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your downtime?
As a business owner, moments of rest are precious. In winter I go skiing; I was lucky enough to be born and live near the mountains; I love winter sports. In summer, I spend my time sunbathing and walking by the sea, but never far from my computer!
Is there anything else that you think it’s important for us to know about you or Speake Marin?
At a time where everyone has a phone that tells the time, you might ask why wear a watch. For me, it’s above all an extension of oneself, a mark of distinction, a narrative, an expression of personality. This is what we continuously strive to cultivate at Speake Marin. I would conclude by saying ‘we must give back to time what belongs to it’. Each Speake Marin timepiece is distinguished by a unique touch, justifying the time invested in its production.
