Founded in 2008 in Geneva, Switzerland, Atelier de Monaco is an interesting story. The brand was co-founded by Peter Stas, then-owner of Frederique Constant, and Pim Koeslag, master watchmaker (who worked for Stas). Koeslag’s dream was to create bespoke and limited-edition complicated mechanical watches that would be made at the highest level of watchmaking and entirely in-house. Today, the brand boasts multiple patents and is known for its Tourbillon collection, Perpetual Calendar series with “EaZy adjust” system and more.
Ateliers deMonaco was founded in 2008. While working at Frederique Constant, master watchmaker, Pim Koeslag realized he had a shared dream with the CEO of the brand, Peter Stas. Both watch lovers wanted to create their own minute repeater movement. After four long years, Pim and Peter successfully presented their first Grande Complication, the Tourbillon Répétition Minute. It only seemed fitting to create a new brand to celebrate this exceptional high-end watch – Ateliers deMonaco was born.
The brand name takes its inspiration from the Principality of Monaco, which stands tall as a symbol of royalty, glamour, and luxury. The brand continued to grow with Kim as its technical director and, as of 2016, as its CEO.
Ateliers deMonaco is passionate about its mechanical innovations and faithful to the traditions of Haute Horlogerie. This dedication has earned the brand a place as one of the rare high-end watch manufacturers. Ateliers deMonaco does not only have the passion but the technical expertise, from in-house mechanical movements to hand-decorated components. Every Ateliers deMonaco watch is meticulously polished, brushed, and engraved by hand – a process that can take over 100 hours per timepiece.
Ateliers deMonaco is incredibly proud to be one of only six brands bearing the Geneva seal – a standard of excellence originating from the tradition of Haute Horlogerie and rewarding high-end watch brands based in Geneva.
As part of its commitment to Haute Horlogerie and Swiss Made excellence, its new headquarters are in Geneva. Still, its soul will always linger in the Riviera’s most beautiful jewel, which has inspired its birth name: Monaco.
Citizen Watch Co acquired Frédérique Constant, Alpina and Ateliers deMonaco in 2016.
Peter Stas is an avid sailor who participates in many regattas a year. He is passionate about the sea and has a special attachment to Monaco, where he used to sail across the bay.