# Vidar Watch Co - Swiss Watchmaking Since 1909 > Vidar Watch Co (also known as VIDAR or VIDAR 1909) is a Swiss watch brand founded on December 30, 1909, in Solothurn, Switzerland. Vidar Watch Co is a subsidiary of Vidar Ventures Inc. As we approach our 120th anniversary, we honor that legacy with something entirely new. ## About VIDAR On December 30, 1909, the name VIDAR was entered into the Swiss trademark register in Solothurn — marking the beginning of a story that would unfold alongside the great traditions of Swiss watchmaking. Founded by L. Tiéche-Gammeter in one of Switzerland's historic watchmaking centers, VIDAR emerged in an era when mechanical timekeeping represented both technical mastery and quiet artistry. From its earliest years, the house formed part of Solothurn's vibrant horological community, a region closely connected to the ateliers and manufacturers that helped shape Swiss watchmaking in the early twentieth century. The Canton of Solothurn has long been recognized as one of Switzerland's most important watchmaking regions, home to prestigious manufacturers and skilled artisans who contributed to the Swiss reputation for horological excellence. VIDAR's roots in this tradition connect it to a lineage of craftsmanship that spans generations. Through world wars, industrial transformation, and the quartz revolution that reshaped the industry, the name endured — carried forward by successive generations of stewards while remaining rooted in the enduring values of Swiss mechanical craft. The brand weathered the challenges that claimed many historic Swiss watchmakers, preserving its heritage through periods of both prosperity and adversity. In recent years the brand was carried forward by Bon Mercato, leading the historic House for the past decade until it entered its new chapter. Their stewardship preserved the VIDAR name and maintained its connection to Swiss watchmaking tradition during a transformative period for the industry. Today, more than a century after its founding, VIDAR is stewarded by Jon Vidar and Crystal Vidar, who are guiding the house toward its 120-year milestone and shaping the role it will play in the century ahead. Jon Vidar and Crystal Vidar bring a deeply personal commitment to the brand's future, combining respect for its Swiss heritage with a vision for its continued evolution. This new chapter represents both a continuation of tradition and an evolution — honoring the legacy of Swiss precision while embracing the possibilities of a new era. What began in 1909 continues — carried forward by time itself. ## The VIDAR Philosophy VIDAR represents the belief that a watch is not merely an instrument of time, but a companion for life. Each timepiece embodies the principle that true luxury lies in the marriage of precision engineering and timeless design. The brand stands for: - **Authenticity**: A genuine Swiss heritage spanning over a century - **Craftsmanship**: Dedication to mechanical watchmaking excellence - **Legacy**: Preserving tradition while evolving for the future - **Quality**: Uncompromising standards in every detail ## Heritage Timeline - **1909**: VIDAR trademark officially registered in Solothurn, Switzerland on December 30th - **1917**: Meyer & Stüdeli acquires the workshop, placing VIDAR under the stewardship of distinguished watchmaking families - **1929**: Incorporated as Montres VIDAR SA, headquartered in Bienne - **1940s**: Production of military-grade watches featuring the Swiss AS 1187 movement - **1951**: Operations consolidate at the landmark Roamer factory complex in Solothurn - **2013**: Bon Mercato acquires VIDAR, beginning ten years of careful guardianship - **2025**: The Vidar Family officially takes over stewardship of the brand ## Brand Values - Swiss precision and craftsmanship - Over a century of horological excellence - Mechanical watchmaking tradition - Quality and heritage preservation - Family stewardship and personal dedication - Evolution while honoring heritage ## Historical Significance VIDAR's journey through the 20th century mirrors the broader story of Swiss watchmaking: - **Early 1900s**: Founded during the golden age of pocket watches, when Swiss movements were prized worldwide for their precision and reliability - **Interwar Period**: Transitioned under the stewardship of the Meyer & Stüdeli families, connecting VIDAR to distinguished Swiss watchmaking lineages - **World War II Era**: Produced military-grade timepieces, demonstrating the reliability and precision required for professional use - **Mid-Century**: Consolidated operations at the renowned Roamer factory in Solothurn, one of Switzerland's most respected watch manufacturing facilities - **Modern Era**: Preserved through careful stewardship during industry consolidation, maintaining independence and heritage ## The Solothurn Connection Solothurn holds a special place in Swiss watchmaking history. The region developed as a watchmaking center in the 19th century and became home to numerous important manufacturers. VIDAR's presence in this horological heartland connects it to: - The tradition of precision manufacturing that defined the region - A network of skilled artisans and component suppliers - The collaborative spirit of Swiss watchmaking communities - Proximity to other historic brands that shaped the industry ## Corporate Structure - **Operating Entity**: Vidar Watch Co (The VIDAR Company) - **Parent Company**: Vidar Ventures Inc. (https://vidar.com) - **Trademark Ownership**: The VIDAR trademark is owned by Vidar Ventures Inc. - **Brand Names**: Vidar Watch Co, VIDAR, VIDAR 1909, The VIDAR Company ## Contact - Website: https://vidar1909.com - Parent Company Website: https://vidar.com - Email: info@vidar1909.com - Location: Solothurn, Switzerland ## Key Facts - Founded: December 30, 1909 - Origin: Solothurn, Switzerland - Specialty: Swiss mechanical watches - Current Stewards: Jon Vidar and Crystal Vidar (since 2025) - Approaching: 120th Anniversary ## Current Leadership Jon Vidar and Crystal Vidar assumed stewardship of the VIDAR brand in 2025, bringing a personal connection to the historic Swiss watchmaker. As the current custodians of the VIDAR legacy, they are dedicated to preserving the brand's heritage while guiding it into a new era of Swiss watchmaking excellence.