ART IN TIME gallery opens in Monaco
A novel concept for a watch gallery has emerged in Monaco, where six exceptional independent horological brands are curated within the esteemed Chopard boutique Art in Time.
T his visionary initiative was spearheaded by the distinguished connoisseur of fine watchmaking, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, co-president of Chopard and founder of Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud. He sought to bring together six exclusive Swiss maisons into a singular, refined collection. The selection criteria? Each brand must embody a harmonious balance between independence and innovation, while remaining firmly rooted in the traditions of horological craftsmanship. As such, the brands and models showcased in the gallery are undoubtedly aimed at the discerning collector and aficionado.
From the outset, when envisioning the ART IN TIME gallery, which debuted in Monaco on March 6, 2019 Scheufele was determined to seek out brands united not by the similarity of the timepieces they create, but by shared principles—values such as independence, creativity, and exclusivity, qualities we all hold dear. Consequently, the greater the visual diversity of the watches, the better. What truly matters is the essence within. This approach has resulted in a collection that is as intellectually stimulating as it is visually captivating.
“At both Chopard and Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud, we hold horological artistry in the highest esteem. It represents a profound legacy, which we, as rare fortunate custodians privileged to engage with it directly, not only preserve but also nurture and advance. The creators behind the ART IN TIME gallery share this same conviction, though each brings their own unique interpretation to these ideals,” explained Karl-Friedrich Scheufele.
It is also worth noting that Scheufele’s own brand, Ferdinand Berthoud Chronomètre, is distinctive and niche, producing no more than 200 pieces annually. These timepieces are designed for a select circle of collectors who are familiar with the legacy of Ferdinand Berthoud and appreciate when master craftsmen push the boundaries of horological complexity. This ethos is precisely why the brands showcased in the ART IN TIME gallery release exclusively limited editions and one-of-a-kind creations.
“For me, Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud opened the gateway to the world of niche watchmaking brands that seamlessly integrate contemporary technologies and innovative ideas into the art of horology,” explained Scheufele. “This is what allowed me to connect with true enthusiasts of the craft. Today, the ART IN TIME gallery has been conceived to bring greater visibility to their visionary concepts.”
The collection of brands featured in ART IN TIME includes six independent watchmakers: Greubel Forsey, L’Epée, MB&F, Ressence, Florian Schlumpf, and Urwerk, alongside the two brands that have curated this exceptional gathering under one roof: Ferdinand Berthoud and Chopard. “It was of particular importance to us to inaugurate the gallery on the French Riviera, a region where these distinguished brands have previously had no presence,” noted Scheufele.
At present, ART IN TIME stands as the world’s only gallery offering such a distinguished curation of timepieces at this level of craftsmanship. While collectors delve into discussions of power reserve indicators, their guests and families are invited to engage with the constantly evolving display of more traditional (visual) art, also presented within the gallery’s walls.
The gallery itself embodies a minimalist aesthetic within the ONE MONTE CARLO complex. Its design is intentionally restrained, ensuring nothing detracts from the horological masterpieces on display. There are no prominent logos, and the arrangements are carefully curated so that each timepiece is presented both as an individual work of art and in harmonious dialogue with the others. This contrasts sharply with the more flamboyant presentations often seen at events like ART BASEL, where the focus is on glittering spectacle and extravagant flourishes.
Karl-Friedrich Scheufele has long been renowned for his deep passion not only for timepieces but also for the art of horology, a craft he actively preserves and advances. It was through his vision that the L.U.CEUM (Louis-Ulysse Chopard + lyceum) museum of haute horology was established in the commune of Fleurier. As Scheufele himself puts it, “Now, collectors and aficionados have a dedicated destination: ART IN TIME.”
ART IN TIME
Place du Casino
98000 Monaco
+377 931 500 00
www.art-in-time.com
contact@art-in-time.com
L.U.CEUM
rue des Moulins 20
20 14 Fleurier
Suisse
+41 32 862 1212
www.chopard.com