Article of the week
The Summit Collection: A Strong First Step for New Brand Earthen

Earthen Company is one of the freshest names to enter the watch market, founded in Hong Kong in 2025 by a group of passionate collectors and enthusiasts. Co-founder Jonathan Chan, also a key figure behind The Horology Club, explains that the team approached this project as collectors first, not as traditional watchmakers. 

The result is a debut that doesn’t chase trends but instead offers something unique, a series of ceramic, field- and pilot-inspired watches at an accessible price point. With the launch of the Summit Collection, it’s clear Earthen intends to make an impression from day one.

Nivada Grenchen

Nivada Grenchen is a well-established watch brand with a rich history in the watchmaking industry. The brand was founded in 1926 by Jacob Schneider in Granges (Grenchen). In 1976, the business was handed over to his son, Max Schneider, who continued the legacy of the company.

One interesting aspect of Nivada Grenchen's history is its association with the United States of America (USA). In the USA, the distribution of Nivada Grenchen watches was handled by the Croton Company. These timepieces could bear either the Nivada Grenchen or Croton signature, or both, showcasing the brand's presence and popularity in the American market.

As early as 1930, the brand was already producing automatic watches, demonstrating its commitment to technological advancements in watchmaking. This dedication to innovation led to the creation of one of its significant timepieces, the Antarctic, in 1950. The Antarctic was Nivada Grenchen's first waterproof automatic watch and gained fame when it was worn by members of the American Navy's Deep Freeze 1 during their expedition to the South Pole from 1955 to 1956. The Antarctic's performance in such extreme conditions solidified the brand's reputation for reliability and durability.

In 2018, the brand underwent a revival, focusing on preserving its legacy by emphasizing two iconic models: the Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver and the Antarctic. Alongside these classic models, the brand introduced new collections and limited editions, showcasing its commitment to both tradition and innovation.