Kari Voutilainen

Kari Voutilainen is a renowned name in the world of high-end horology, recognized for his exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to traditional watchmaking techniques. Born in Finland in 1962, Voutilainen's passion for horology began at a young age. He undertook formal training at the renowned Watchmaking School of Tapiola in Finland, followed by advanced studies at the WOSTEP program in Neuchâtel, Switzerland.

Voutilainen's career took a significant turn when he joined Parmigiani Mesure et Art du Temps, a prestigious Swiss watchmaking firm, in 1990. Here, he honed his skills in restoration, working on some of the rarest and most complicated timepieces. This experience was instrumental in shaping his profound understanding of historical watchmaking.

In 2002, Voutilainen established his own atelier in the village of Môtiers, nestled in the Swiss Jura mountains. His independent brand quickly garnered attention for its distinct blend of traditional techniques and innovative design. Notably, Voutilainen unveiled his first wristwatch, the Observatoire, in 2005. This model, featuring a beautifully finished movement and an elegantly understated dial, went on to win the prestigious Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève in 2007.

One of Voutilainen's signature contributions to horology is the development of the Vingt-8 movement, introduced in 2011. This in-house movement is notable for its sophisticated direct impulse escapement, offering enhanced accuracy and longevity. Additionally, Voutilainen is famous for his attention to detail, with hand-finished components that reflect unparalleled artistry.