Horology and sommellerie are crafts that blend passion and precision, continuously upholding French excellence through the seasons. These two arts have evolved to create innovative and sometimes daring pairings. The 2024 vintage brings a unique collaboration between the French watchmaker B.R.M Chronographes and the Union de la Sommellerie Français. As part of this partnership, Fabrice Sommier has become the new ambassador for B.R.M Chronographes.
This harmonious alliance between watchmaking and sommellerie diverges from B.R.M Chronographes’ traditionally sporty identity, unveiling new facets of the brand's essence. Both crafts share ancestral expertise, artisanal techniques, a pursuit of excellence, and products that engage the senses. These shared values have birthed a unique new "cuvée." Bernard Richards, CEO of B.R.M Chronographes, and Fabrice Sommier, Meilleur Ouvrier de France and president of the UDSF, are passionate entrepreneurs who quickly found common ground.
“When I founded B.R.M Chronographes in 2003, my goal was to convey my passion through watches that reflect a sometimes underappreciated French savoir-faire. Our vision of watchmaking is unique, offering everyone the chance to find their perfect pairing, much like in the world of sommellerie. I am delighted to welcome Fabrice Sommier to our family and am convinced that this partnership will be a unique opportunity to highlight French heritage”.
- Bernard Richards, CEO of B.R.M Chronographes.
“As a MOF and sommelier, excellence is my guiding principle. Every day, I strive to push the boundaries of my knowledge and perfect my craft. My ultimate goal is to be an ambassador for my multifaceted and exceptional profession, and for the French art of living. For all sommeliers, time is a critical factor, especially during competitions. The desire to connect with a French watchmaker was always there; meeting Bernard Richards made it obvious.” - Fabrice Sommier, president of the UDSF.
In this collaboration, a watch and a bracelet embodying the perfect balance between sporty design and French excellence have been developed. The B.R.M Chronographes x UDSF automatic watch features a polished case and lugs that give it depth and brilliance. Details such as the grooves on the case and the hands are hand-lacquered in the colors of the French flag. The dial and crown are adorned with the UDSF logo. In terms of functionality, the watch boasts an automatic movement, a date display, and a chronograph. This edition is limited to 24 pieces, representing the 24 regions that make up the UDSF.
The B.R.M Luxury x UDSF bracelet is a hand-finished grade 2 titanium disc, with the UDSF logo printed on a sapphire crystal, and is mounted on a recycled polyester cord in the colors of France. These two creations are available exclusively on the brand's website www.brm-chronographes.com.
B.R.M Chronographes also becomes the official timekeeper for the UDSF. In this role, the manufacturer will be responsible for timing the various stages of practical and written tests during UDSF competitions. A digital B.R.M Chronographes stopwatch has been developed for this purpose, enabling precise timing and recording of each event. The company will also create two custom trophies, including one for the winner of the 2024 Best Sommelier of France competition.
Text : Union de la Sommellerie Française
Photos: Magali Butny
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