Introducing Schwarz Etienne Unveils the New Collection 1902 Petite Seconde

Founded in 1902 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Schwarz Etienne is an independent watch manufacturer known for its in-house mechanical movements and commitment to traditional horology. The brand was established by Paul Arthur Schwarz and his wife Olga Etienne, combining their names to reflect a family-driven business. Initially supplying movements to other watchmakers, Schwarz Etienne evolved into a full-fledged manufacturer, producing complete timepieces under its own name. After facing industry-wide challenges during the quartz crisis, the company was revitalized in 2007 following its acquisition by Swiss entrepreneur Raffaello Radicchi. Since then, Schwarz Etienne has focused on vertically integrated production, including the development of proprietary calibers such as the ASE 100.00 and the tourbillon-equipped TSE series.

During the latest edition of Watches and Wonders, Schwarz Etienne introduced its new collection, 1902 Petite Seconde. Named in reference to the year of the brand’s founding, the collection blends classic aesthetics with modern craftsmanship, offering a refined interpretation of the small seconds complication. The watch is available in three distinct dial color options, allowing for a personalized expression of this elegant timepiece.

The watch comes in a meticulously crafted case that measures 39mm in diameter and 10.9mm in thickness, offering a balanced presence on the wrist. Made from lightweight titanium, the case combines brushed and polished finishes to create a refined contrast that enhances its modern yet understated character. Both the front and caseback are fitted with sapphire crystal, ensuring durability while providing a clear view of the dial and movement. With a water resistance of up to 50 meters.

The dial of the watch is offered in three elegant color variations, silver, or grey, or gold color. It features a refined sector-style layout, distinguished by multiple levels and contrasting finishes that enhance both depth and legibility. The grained central area adds subtle texture, while the opaline chapter ring is adorned with polished, applied indices that catch the light with every movement. A recessed small seconds counter at 6 o’clock is framed by a classic railway track and finished with a snailed interior for added visual interest. Completing the design, lance-shaped hour and minute hands provide a clean and precise reading, and a white railway minutes track encircles the dial, tying together the watch’s balanced and sophisticated aesthetic.

The watch is powered by Schwarz Etienne’s in-house automatic movement, the ASE 300.00, featuring a micro-rotor and stop-seconds functionality for precise time-setting. This finely engineered calibre is composed of 191 components and 29 jewels, operating at a frequency of 21,600 vph (3Hz) and offering an extended power reserve of 86 hours. Finishing and decoration are executed to the highest standards of traditional Swiss watchmaking. The mainplate is sandblasted with a rhodium treatment, complemented by polished bevels and tone-on-tone engraving. The bridges are adorned with circular and concentric Côtes de Genève, while the ratchet wheel is finished with a combination of diamond drop.

The watch is fitted with a choice of either alligator or calfskin leather strap. Each strap is lined with black rubber on the underside. The watch is fastened with a lightweight titanium pin buckle.

For more information, you can visit Schwarz Etienne’s official website.