Rémy Cools and the Art of Independent Watchmaking at IAMWatch 2026

A journey to Singapore for IAMWatch 2026 lead The Hour Markers straight to one of the most compelling independent watchmakers on the rise. At twenty-nine years old, Rémy Cools represents a fresh vanguard in horology, where uncompromising classical craftsmanship meets a fearless, modern design ethos. Discussing his philosophy, Cools highlighted his refreshing approach to community and accessibility in a hyper-exclusive market, noting:

"We don’t simply allocate pieces or cater exclusively to our established collectors. Our goal is to open our doors and reach out to everyone who shares a genuine passion for watches."

The Chronomètre Atelier: A Play Of Contrast and Depth

For his showcase in Singapore, Cools brought his latest new release: the Chronomètre Atelier. Cools has long harbored a fascination with sculptural forms, drawing heavy inspiration from the geometric elegance and sleek sophistication of 1920s Art Deco style to play dramatically with three-dimensional depth. The true genius of the Chronomètre Atelier lies in the dialogue it creates between different eras of watchmaking. Describing the aesthetic duality and mechanics behind his latest creation, Cools shared:

"With the Chronomètre Atelier, I wanted to play heavily with three-dimensional depth, drawing inspiration from 1920s Art Deco design. The back of the watch honors traditional French watchmaking with classic architecture and finishing, while the front is entirely contemporary. I love the striking contrast between them." 

The true genius of the watch lies in the dialogue it creates between different eras of watchmaking

From Prodigy to Independent Atelier

Cools' path to becoming one of independent watchmaking’s most promising names is built on a lifelong dedication to the craft. Born in France in 1997, his obsession with mechanical timepieces began at the tender age of eleven during a visit to the Manufacture Frédéric Piguet in the Vallée de Joux, where he assembled his first movement components. That spark ignited years of devouring horological literature, exploring vintage flea markets, and studying the legendary works of historical French watchmakers. He later honed his craft at the prestigious Lycée Edgar Faure in Morteau, spending his evenings restoring antique clocks and marine chronometers for collectors. In 2018, his exceptional talent earned him the prestigious F.P. Journe Young Talent Competition. By 2019, at just twenty-two years old, he boldly established his own independent workshop, following up his acclaimed Tourbillon Souscription series with masterworks like the Chronomètre Atelier.

In an industry often bound by tradition or swept up in fleeting trends, Rémy Cools carves out a path defined by absolute singularity. Whether he is hand-finishing a wheel train or designing dials that challenge the perception of spatial depth, his work proves that the soul of traditional watchmaking is in safe, visionary hands. For collectors and enthusiasts fortunate enough to connect with his creations, Cools isn't just building timepieces: he is crafting enduring pieces of history that bridge the past, present, and future.