Microbrand Spotlight - Laventure
Let’s talk about Laventure—the Swiss microbrand that's basically what would happen if Indiana Jones and Jacques Cousteau had a horological lovechild. It's niche, it's gorgeous, and it’s got more character than a Wes Anderson film.
While the big boys of watchmaking are busy playing it safe with steel-on-steel reissues and brand ambassador contracts that cost more than a small island, Laventure is over here actually having a good time. Think: 1970s diver vibes, porthole-inspired dials, and a healthy disregard for mass appeal. It’s not for everyone, and that’s exactly the point.
So, what is Laventure?
Born in 2017, Laventure was created by Swiss designer Clément Gaud, who clearly got fed up with boardroom beige and decided to build something romantic instead. Not "Valentine’s Day" romantic — more “I just found a rusted diving bell off the coast of Madagascar” romantic.
Each watch run is limited, numbered, and beautifully weird. There’s no permanent collection. No waiting list waffle. When they drop a new model, it sells out faster than Glastonbury tickets (and causes about as much online chaos).
Credit - Laventure
Credit - Laventure
Credit - Laventure
The Aesthetic: Vintage Vibes, Modern Moves
Laventure watches are unapologetically chunky, with big crowns, bold bezels, and unapologetic flair. The dials are often sandwiched, offering depth and texture you usually only find in much more expensive pieces. Oh, and they often throw in tropical-style patina effects for that freshly-salvaged look.
Most designs take cues from marine life, shipwrecks, and the sort of adventure novels that come with a rum ration. Models like the Marine, Sous-Marine, and Transatlantique sound less like watches and more like chapters in a Jules Verne novel. And honestly? We're here for it.
The Specs: More Than Just a Pretty Face
Behind the charm, Laventure watches are properly built. We’re talking:
Swiss automatic movements (usually ETA or Sellita)
Domed sapphire crystals
Water resistance to 200m+
Custom-designed cases and crowns
Screwed casebacks with engraved artwork that makes you say "phwoar" out loud
It’s not just style over substance. It’s substance served with a garnish of swashbuckling flair.
Why Should You Care?
Because owning a Laventure is a bit like having a secret. They’re rare, they’re cool without trying, and they’re the kind of thing someone at a dinner party will ask about—just before admitting they bought a Daniel Wellington on Klarna.
They also hold value surprisingly well, with second-hand prices often exceeding retail (if you can bear to part with it).
Plus, supporting microbrands means you’re helping an actual human with a vision, rather than padding the pockets of a luxury conglomerate’s yacht fund.
Final Thoughts: Adventure Time
Laventure isn’t for everyone. And thank god for that. It’s for those who want a story on their wrist—not just a logo. It’s for people who know their lug width and have strong opinions about date windows. It’s for the horological romantics, the adventure nerds, and anyone who’s ever googled “how deep is too deep for a desk diver?”
In short: Laventure is the kind of microbrand that reminds you why you fell in love with watches in the first place.
Find out more at the Official Website.
