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Probably the only Swiss luxury watch brand with Latin roots, Cuervo y Sobrinos take the story of fine watchmaking to Cuba with their free-spirited timepieces that bring the colourful mood of the 50s Havana to the wearer’s wrist. The brand’s lineage can be traced back to 1862 when Spanish immigrant Ramón Fernández Cuervo opened a jewellery and watch repair shop in Havana. Two decades later, his six nephews joined him, catalysing the business’ expansion and culminating in the establishment of Cuervo y Sobrinos— "Sobrinos" translating to "nephews" in Spanish. Up until 1965, when the brand succumbed under the rise of Fidel Castro during the Cuban Revolution, Cuervo y Sobrinos flourished as one of the best-known brands across the American continent. From opening facilities in Europe to catering to a distinguished clientele encompassing luminaries like Gary Cooper, Hemingway, Einstein and Neruda, Cuervo y Sobrinos forged a legacy that continues to inspire today.
In 1997, after almost three decades of obscurity, a new dawn appeared on the horizon for the brand. Luca Musumeci and Marzio Villa, veterans from the watch industry, breathed new life into Cuervo y Sobrinos by acquiring the rights from the Cuervo family, thus heralding a fresh chapter in the brand's storied legacy. Currently, the brand is based in Lugano, Switzerland helmed by CEO Massimo Rossi.
Born in Havana. Crafted in Switzerland
Today, Cuervo y Sobrinos stand for the coastal glamour of Havana. They thoughtfully draw ideas from Havana’s vibrant Latin imagery and transform them into retro-inspired eclectic timepieces with ultimate Swiss precision. Over the years, this vintage Caribbean vibe has become Cuervo y Sobrinos’ unmistakable brand identity. Watch collections such as Prominente and Espléndidos take inspiration from Cuban cigars, embracing their rich character and luxurious appeal. Meanwhile, Buceador is a collection of dive watches that echo the myriad hues of the ocean waters encircling Cuba's shores. Another collection that is undeniably tied to the Cuban roots of the maison is Historiador. Released in 2009, Historiador is the brand’s best-selling collection. It pays homage to Dr Eusebio Leal Spengler, Havana’s official historian, and also commemorates his role in the restoration of Cuervo y Sobrinos' Havana boutique.
Cuervo y Sobrinos' enigmatic and instantly recognisable design ethos extends beyond their timepieces to shape every facet of their identity. Each Cuervo y Sobrinos watch arrives meticulously packaged in a burlwood box, a subtle yet profound nod to the brand's Cuban heritage and their affinity for fine Cuban cigars. This attention to detail underscores the brand's commitment to crafting an immersive experience for their discerning clientele.