275 Years in Motion
The first watchmaking workshop in Le Locle was opened by Moïse DuBois 275 years ago. To this day, DuBois et fils is synonymous with the finest watchmaking artistry, an entrepreneurial pioneering spirit, and a passion for mechanical timepieces.
The DBF011 brings this heritage to life. Each watch is powered by an original 1962 Swiss Felsa 4017 hand-wound movement – ready to carry on the DuBois et fils legacy.
Available exclusively in 2026, the anniversary year.
Felsa 4017 hand-wound movement
The DBF011 movement was manufactured by Felsa S.A. in Grenchen in 1962. At the time, this Swiss manufacturer was one of the world's most innovative producers of watch movements. The company had a significant influence on the history of watchmaking.
Engineering excellence from Grenchen
One of the key figures at Felsa S.A. at that time was Friedrich Meyer (1902–1977). While others were off work, he could be found at home sketching and calculating new ideas. His exceptional technical talent resulted in numerous patented inventions, including the automatic winding mechanism of the Bidynator in the DBF006.
The Felsa 4017 calibre is another of his inventions. To this day, this hand-wound movement represents reliable mechanics and precision. This can be seen in the DBF011, where it is visible thanks to the transparent case back.
The Legacy of 1751
Moïse DuBois took over his father’s textile business in 1720 and the 1743 inventory book contains entries for three pocket watches and a watch movement. Shortly afterwards, a watchmaker and a goldsmith are mentioned as business partners. The DuBois brand finally began manufacturing its own watches alongside its trading activities with the opening of a watchmaking workshop at 22 Grande-Rue in Le Locle in 1751.
New beginnings and trade
While Moïse DuBois's two sons, Guillaume and Abram, travelled to England to establish international connections, his youngest son, Philippe, took over management of the trading post in Le Locle.
The business was named 'Philippe DuBois & Soeur'. This changed when his sister Isabeau married, and Philippe became the sole owner.
An engraving from 1760 depicts the brothers' departure for England.
As well as manufacturing their own watches, the DuBois family were active in retail, selling their goods themselves. This led to the early development of a network that shaped the history of DuBois et fils far beyond Switzerland’s borders.
In 1785, Philippe DuBois joined forces with his two sons. From then on, the company was known as 'Philippe DuBois et Fils S.A.'.
Visit DuBois et fils
An automatic watch movement consists of tiny components that must be assembled with precision for the watch to start ticking. This kind of work requires a great deal of knowledge and experience, as well as a delicate touch.
Join us at DuBois et fils for a tour of the workshop, where you can look over the shoulders of our watchmakers and discover the brand’s rich history.
