Jean-Marie Schaller
Today, the industry lost one of its most creative minds, one of its true gentlemen, and one of its most passionate storytellers. Jean-Marie Schaller, the visionary behind Louis Moinet, passed away on May 16, leaving an enormous void in the world of independent watchmaking.
Jean-Marie was always creative, always looking toward the future, always searching for the next idea, the next material, the next story to tell through watchmaking. But beyond the watches, beyond the innovation and the accomplishments, he was one of the kindest and most genuine people in this industry. He had an absorbing smile, brightly shining eyes and a warmth that immediately put people at ease. He was a man of conviction and vision, but never ego. He did not seek accolades for himself, only recognition for the brand, for the history, and for the people who helped bring his ideas to life. I was proud to call him a friend.
I first met Jean-Marie in the early days of modern independent watchmaking, the same year he officially established Louis Moinet in 2004. Even then, it was immediately clear that he was different. He had a vision that stretched far beyond simply creating watches. He wanted to restore the legacy of Louis Moinet himself, ensuring that the historic watchmaker received rightful recognition for inventing the first chronograph. Jean-Marie pursued that mission with tireless determination, conducting extensive historical research that ultimately helped reshape modern horological understanding.
That work led to global recognition, including Guinness World Records acknowledging Louis Moinet as creator of the first chronograph. et Jean-Marie never approached any of it with arrogance. He simply believed deeply in the importance of honoring the past while creating watches focused firmly on the future.
Quietly confident and endlessly driven, he moved forward with conviction, creativity and perseverance. He was always exploring new materials, new techniques and new ways to tell stories through watchmaking. Whether it was creating watches with billion-year-old meteorites and rare fossils, unveiling extraordinary space-inspired pieces, or developing highly complicated mechanical works, Jean-Marie consistently pushed boundaries while remaining deeply respectful of traditional craftsmanship.
One creation that has stayed with me over the years was his intricate puzzle-piece watch concept — inventive, beautifully executed and completely original. That was Jean-Marie. He constantly challenged conventional thinking. No idea ever seemed too ambitious. From space-age concepts to historical discoveries and technical feats many thought impossible, he approached watchmaking with endless curiosity and enthusiasm.
And he paid attention to every detail — even the small ones that many people might overlook.
Years ago, when USB press kits became popular, I started a “Storage Wars” feature on ATimelyPerspective highlighting the most creative USB keys distributed during the watch shows. Louis Moinet topped my list nearly every single year. Jean-Marie always came up with extraordinary ideas — USB keys shaped like miniature works of art, objects that reflected the creativity of the brand itself. At the end of our meetings, there was always that special moment when he would hand me the latest one and wait for my reaction with that wonderful smile and those brightly shining eyes. He genuinely enjoyed the creative process and loved sharing it with others. I still have many of those USB keys today, and now they carry even greater meaning.
I always enjoyed our meetings because Jean-Marie never simply presented a watch. He shared the story behind it. And he was a magnificent storyteller. Every conversation carried enthusiasm, curiosity and warmth. He genuinely loved what he was doing, and that passion was contagious. He even authored a book chronicling his journey and vision — one I am proud to own in signed form.
Beyond the creativity and innovation, though, what many people will remember most is his kindness. He treated people with respect, whether they were collectors, journalists, retailers, artisans or young members of the industry just beginning their journey.
The official announcement from Les Ateliers Louis Moinet described him as “a free and creative spirit” whose energy and convictions left a deep impression on all who worked with him. That is exactly how I will remember him.
Jean-Marie also leaves behind a family deeply connected to the brand and its future. His wife Micaela supported the company from its earliest days, while his son Nathanaël has spent the past several years working alongside him, learning not only the business and creative philosophy, but also the values that guided Jean-Marie throughout his life.
The company will continue forward under Nathanaël and the Louis Moinet team, carrying with it the vision Jean-Marie built over more than two decades. But for those of us fortunate enough to have known him personally, his absence will be deeply felt.
I know I will miss him greatly. As will so many others throughout the watch world who had the privilege of knowing this remarkable man.
