1947

The Beginning of a Great Story

The story begins in the cradle of French watchmaking, in Charquemont, a village nestled in the heart of the Jura Mountains. Michel Herbelin's parents intended for him to take over their business, but he dreamt only of precision mechanics. Defying parental authority, the young Michel Herbelin chose to pursue the world of watchmaking.

After a few years spent in a local watchmaking factory, where the quality of the products did not meet his standards, and with the ambition of restoring traditional French watchmaking to its former glory, he boldly embarked on a new adventure… his adventure.

At the age of 26, Michel HERBELIN established his own workshop on the top floor of his parents' house in Charquemont, where he crafted his first timepieces.

1965

Renowned Expertise, Made in France

In 1947, Michel Herbelin named his first watch “IMPEC” for a reason. He wanted to clearly display his dream and ambition: to create elegant watches that function flawlessly—in other words, “impeccable” timepieces stamped Made in France. He relies on French and Swiss suppliers, located near Charquemont, to offer his clients watches of irreproachable quality.

In 1965, building on the success of his collections, he decided to create the brand. IMPEC thus becomes Michel HERBELIN

1980

A family legacy

Michel has passionately crafted timepieces for over 40 years.

It was only natural that he passed on his passion for watchmaking to his two sons, Jean-Claude and Pierre-Michel, who joined him on his journey. At that time, quartz was emerging. While some saw it as a sign of the decline of French watchmaking, for Michel Herbelin and his sons, it was, on the contrary, a tremendous opportunity to unleash the creativity of designers and take on the challenges of future generations. The transmission of expertise is an essential value at HERBELIN. Today, two grandchildren of the founder contribute in turn to the success of the family business. Their creativity and expertise give new impetus to the brand.

2018

In Perpetual Motion Since 1947

For over 70 years, the Maison has remained true to its founding values. Each timepiece is designed, hand-assembled, and meticulously inspected in our Franche-Comté workshops. Our enduring philosophy: to craft enduring timepieces that honor artisanal savoir-faire, imbued with quintessential French elegance.

Since 1947, HERBELIN has adapted to evolutions and trends, while respecting its DNA.

2022

Ready to design tomorrow

Celebrating 75 years of heritage and passion, the brand unveils a new identity. It embodies the ambition to showcase French elegance, refinement, and watchmaking expertise more than ever. Since 2020, Herbelin has been led by Maxime and Mathieu Herbelin, grandsons of the founder, along with two cherished family members, Cédric Gomez-Montiel and Benjamin Theurillat.

Faithful to the tradition and innovation that define the Maison's history, they are now embarking on a new chapter to elevate this renowned name in French watchmaking.