Swiss watch brand
Dubey & Schaldenbrand: history, models and value
Dubey & Schaldenbrand is a small La Chaux-de-Fonds name best known for a split-seconds chronograph patented in the 1940s. If you own one, this is what you are likely holding.
- Founded
- 1946
- Founder(s)
- Georges Dubey, René Schaldenbrand
- Headquarters
- La Chaux-de-Fonds
Dubey & Schaldenbrand: origins and founding
The brand goes back to two watchmakers working in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Georges Dubey and René Schaldenbrand. In 1946 they filed a patent for a split-seconds (rattrapante) chronograph mechanism designed to be simpler and cheaper to make. 1946 is the founding year usually given. The company itself was registered in 1949 as "G. Dubey and R. Schaldenbrand".
Founders and family
Georges-Frédéric Dubey came from Sévaz in the canton of Fribourg, René-Paul Schaldenbrand from Porrentruy. The two ran the firm together until 1972, when Schaldenbrand retired and Dubey became sole owner.
Dubey & Schaldenbrand history and milestones
- 1951: the "Dubey & Schaldenbrand" and "DS" trademarks were registered.
- 1953: the company's registration was extended to chronographs and automatic watches.
- 1959–1983: the firm was based in the Minerva Palace on Rue Léopold-Robert in La Chaux-de-Fonds.
- 1982: Ernest Bärtschi and Alain Rosat took over, keeping the Dubey & Schaldenbrand name on the watches.
- 1990s: Cinette Robert revived the brand, using a stock of old movements she had collected in the 1970s and early 1980s. Dubey & Schaldenbrand SA was formed in 2000.
Famous Dubey & Schaldenbrand models
The best-known vintage pieces are the split-seconds chronographs based on the founders' patents, including the simplified "Index-Mobile" chronograph. The firm also made bracelet chronographs and simple manual and automatic watches. After the revival, the brand made small series of mechanical watches in which old movements were recased in styles matching the era the movement came from.
Dubey & Schaldenbrand prices on the pre-owned market
This is a niche brand, so prices depend heavily on the individual watch. Vintage split-seconds chronographs with the patented mechanism are the most interesting to collectors. Condition of the dial, a working chronograph and an original case matter most. Revival-era watches are judged on the movement inside, the case material and whether box and papers are present.
How to recognise a genuine Dubey & Schaldenbrand
Fakes of this brand are rare, but parts swaps are possible with any vintage chronograph. Check that the dial signature, the movement and the case fit together, and that the split-seconds function works as it should. Ask a watchmaker to open the case if the price is significant. Our guide on how to spot a fake watch covers the general checks.
What is your Dubey & Schaldenbrand worth?
Send us clear photos of the dial, case and movement if possible, and you will get a free watch value estimate. For estates or insurance, a signed written watch appraisal is also available.
Frequently asked questions
What is Dubey & Schaldenbrand known for?
The brand is known for a split-seconds (rattrapante) chronograph mechanism that its founders patented from 1946 onward. Vintage chronographs with this mechanism are the pieces collectors look for.
Are Dubey & Schaldenbrand watches valuable?
Some are, especially original vintage split-seconds chronographs in good condition. Because the brand is small, each watch is judged individually on movement, condition and originality.
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