Objectif H O rl O gerie

Hadag caught up with Samir Khemici, Founder of Paris-based Objectif Horlogerie ahead of the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition to learn more about the art of watchmaking and the mysteries of his world-renowned workshop which is both a temple of high technology and a magical world of horology at your fingertips.

Hi Samir! Give us a snap shot of your career, how did you get started and what sparked your interest in watchmaking?

Since my earliest childhood, I have been attracted to watches. First by the aesthetic of the watch and second by the technicality and quality of the movements. Over the years, my interest in watchmaking increased gradually. After a Bachelor of Science and a short period working in finance, I reoriented myself and validated several diplomas allowing me to consolidate my achievements and progress in the world of watchmaking. The desire to transmit this knowledge developed into a passion, especially the technical side. I quickly found that the functioning of a mechanical calibre remains an enigma for both collectors and experienced enthusiasts thus the beginning of Objectif Horlogerie.

What’s the best thing and what’s the most challenging thing about watchmaking?

I think that the most difficult and yet necessary thing is to be properly informed about the techniques of the past and about the profession and the broader sector of today. We make it our best practice to not dazzle and confuse our participants but to enlighten and nurture their passion! It is my greatest satisfaction to see a group of amateurs happy and satisfied at the end of a course.

Take us through the process of watchmaking, what are some of the most important tools of the trade and how difficult was it to master this craft?

To list the material present in a workshop would not be useful as the list is almost infinite! In all modesty and surely in all frankness the best watchmakers in the world say it, the work and the learning never stops. Especially with the evolution of technologies, reliability and the use of new materials within the sector. My goal is to share my knowledge and experience in this field. It is an exciting universe, my curiosity and my desire make that I am constantly learning every day! www.objectifhorlogerie.fr

Tell us about your involvement at Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) and what visitors will experience?

We cannot wait to meet new watch enthusiasts during DJWE which is one of the largest Business to Consumer exhibitions in our industry. We will be running initiation workshops to watchmaking for about an hour at a time; the aim is to demonstrate an initial approach to watchmaking.

For the vast majority of amateurs or collectors, the practice of watchmaking is a mystery, we wish to open a door in this area and facilitate access to them through this discovery and experience run by our watchmakers.

Learn how a mechanical watch works in practice! An original idea that seduces more and more enthusiasts, everyday.