Corum full name Montres Corum Sàrl, is a Swiss luxury watchmaker that has spent nearly seven decades proving Swiss haute-horlogerie can still raise eyebrows and pulses. Founded in 1955 by René Buehler and Gaston Ries in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Corum has carved a unique identity in the world of haute horlogerie by blending traditional Swiss craftsmanship with avant-garde aesthetics. This article examines Corum watches history, enduring legacy, famous watches & industry impact, highlighting its milestones, historic timepieces, engineering achievements, strategic market positioning and its evolving role in the modern luxury landscape.

Corum Watches History

Corum was established in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, by René Bannwart and Gaston Ries. The brand’s name, derived from the word “quorum” reflects the founders’ vision of partnership and decision-making excellence. From its earliest days, Corum sought to distinguish itself with unconventional designs and technical ingenuity.Key milestones in Corum’s history include:

• 1956: Launch of the first Corum watches, quickly gaining attention for their innovative aesthetics.
• 1960: Introduction of the Admiral’s Cup collection, inspired by the world of yachting and soon to become one of the brand’s most iconic lines.
• 1964: Release of the Heritage Coin watch, which incorporated real gold coins into the dial and was famously worn by U.S. presidents.
• 1980: Debut of the Golden Bridge, featuring a revolutionary linear movement encased in sapphire crystal, cementing Corum’s reputation for technical artistry.

Over the decades, Corum has continued to evolve, embracing new ownership structures and expanding its global reach, all while maintaining its core values of innovation and exclusivity.

Famous Corum Watches

While many Swiss watchmakers have stayed within traditional boundaries, Corum watches have consistently pushed the envelope, creating timepieces that are as distinctive as they are technically impressive. Here’s a look at the 5 most famous Corum watches that have shaped the brand’s identity & influenced the broader horological landscape:

1. Corum Admiral’s Cup Watch (Launched: 1960)

The Corum Admiral's Cup is a prestigious collection of luxury sports watches specifically designed for sailing enthusiasts and maritime activities. Introduced in the 1957, these timepieces were inspired by the Admiral's Cup sailing regatta, one of the most prestigious yacht racing competitions in the world. The collection represents Corum's dedication to creating functional, robust timepieces that serve the practical needs of sailors while maintaining the elegance and precision expected from Swiss luxury watches. Its most recognizable features include the 12-sided (dodecagonal) bezel and the use of nautical flags as hour markers, symbolizing the maritime world.

Originally designed as a square, water-resistant watch for yachting enthusiasts, the Admiral’s Cup evolved over time into an iconic collection distinguished by a bold 12-sided (dodecagonal) case and a dial adorned with colorful nautical pennants, which represent hours based on the International Code of Signals used in maritime communication. These pennants give the watch an instantly recognizable, nautical-themed aesthetic that appeals to sailors and watch collectors alike.

What Makes Corum Admiral’s Cup Watch Famous?

Several distinct elements contribute to the Admiral’s Cup watch's global recognition and iconic status:
• Distinctive Design: The dodecagonal case combined with the vibrant nautical flags on the dial has become a hallmark of the collection. This unique shape and design set it apart in the world of luxury sport watches.
• Nautical Heritage: Its direct association with the Admiral’s Cup sailing race and the maritime theme embody the spirit of courage, adventure, and precision needed at sea, resonating strongly with sailing fans.
• Technical Innovation: Over the decades, the line has included specialized models such as the 1993 Admiral’s Cup Tides with an exclusive movement indicating tides and lunar cycles, and minute repeaters, chronographs, and skeletonized versions.
• Variety and Craftsmanship: Available in various materials including gold, steel, and bronze, the collection ranges in case sizes and complications, balancing both elegance and sporty appeal. Some dials even simulate teak wood resembling luxurious yacht decks.
• Iconic Status and Legacy: For nearly 60 years, Corum has evolved the collection with over 70 models, maintaining its prestige and rootedness in maritime tradition while pushing watchmaking creativity.

Over the decades, the Corum Admiral’s Cup line has evolved into a wide range of complications including chronographs, tourbillons, and skeleton models, while retaining its iconic maritime DNA. It's a symbol of sporty elegance and a favorite among sailing enthusiasts and watch collectors alike.

2. Corum Golden Bridge Watch (Launched: 1980)

The Corum Golden Bridge is one of the most iconic and technically daring watches ever created. Celebrated for its groundbreaking and visually captivating linear ("in-line") baguette movement, the watch was originally conceived by independent watchmaker Vincent Calabrese in 1977 and patented shortly thereafter. Uniquely, all components of the movement from the mainspring to the escapement are aligned along a single horizontal or vertical axis, a design that defies conventional watch architecture.

This extraordinary movement is encased within a transparent case, often crafted from sapphire crystal, creating the illusion of a floating golden “bridge” suspended at the center of the watch. Recognizing its innovation, Corum acquired the patent and partnered with Calabrese to bring this vision to life, ultimately developing a refined mechanical movement comprising 45 meticulously arranged components in a straight line. Enhancing its elegance, the bridges and main plate are crafted from 18-carat gold and intricately hand-engraved, transforming the movement itself into a masterpiece of mechanical artistry.

What Makes the Corum Golden Bridge Watch Famous?

Several groundbreaking elements make the Golden Bridge watch world-renowned and highly respected among collectors and horologists:
• Innovative Movement Layout: Unlike traditional round or circular movements, its linear movement is suspended visibly inside the case, creating a striking 3D effect.
• Transparent Case Design: The watch features a tonneau-shaped (barrel-shaped) case crafted with sapphire crystals on nearly all sides, providing an unobstructed 360-degree view of the stunning movement, emphasizing transparency and technical beauty.
• Craftsmanship and Aesthetics: The movement’s golden bridges are hand-engraved, showcasing Swiss artisanal expertise, while the entire watch is a harmonious blend of horology and fine jewelry.
• Historical Significance: The Golden Bridge was introduced during the challenging quartz crisis period of the 1980s yet remained a symbol of Corum’s dedication to authentic mechanical watchmaking and innovation.
• Artistic Variants: Some models, like the Golden Bridge “Serpent,” incorporate micro-sculpture and hand-painting, integrating artistic motifs such as a serpent winding around the movement inside the case.
• Symbolic Inspiration: The design metaphorically references a bridge (like the Golden Gate Bridge), symbolizing connections and engineering marvels, reinforcing its architectural and artistic identity.

Corum Golden Bridge Watch represents Corum’s deep commitment to technical innovation and visual storytelling. The architecture of the movement is fully visible, showcasing micro-engineering in a dramatic and artistic way. Over time, Corum has released various iterations of the Golden Bridge, including automatic and tourbillon versions, reinforcing its status as one of the most inventive mechanical watches ever made.

3. Corum Coin Watch (Launched: 1964)

Corum’s Coin Watch is a dress watch whose dial and case are literally fashioned from an authentic gold coin, most famously the U.S. $20 “Double Eagle” struck in 22K yellow gold between 1849 and 1933. To create each piece, the coin is delicately split; the obverse becomes the dial while the reverse forms the case-back, and an ultra-thin mechanical or quartz movement is suspended between the two halves, the whole being encircled by a slim 18K gold bezel and lugs. The result is a wearable wafer only ~7 mm thick that still carries the full relief and patina of the original historic coin. This innovation combined horology with numismatics in an unprecedented way, producing an elegant watch that looks like a coin worn on the wrist.

What Makes Corum Coin Watch Famous?

What makes the Corum Coin Watch famous includes several key factors:
Corum Coin Watches became famous primarily because they represented an entirely new category in luxury watchmaking. When introduced in 1964, nothing like them had ever existed before. The concept of transforming authentic legal tender into functional timepieces was so innovative that it immediately captured the attention of collectors, watch enthusiasts, and the general public. This groundbreaking approach established Corum as a brand willing to challenge conventional watchmaking boundaries and think beyond traditional design limitations. The fame of Corum Coin Watches also stems from other aspects such as:

• Innovation and Design: It was groundbreaking at the time to integrate an authentic gold or silver coin into the watch case, using a minimalist dial with just hour and minute hands so as not to obscure the coin’s artwork, often featuring the Liberty seal.
• Historical Prestige: The watch gained notable fame as it was worn by multiple U.S. presidents, including Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Richard Nixon, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Jimmy Carter. This presidential endorsement boosted its cultural and collectible status.
• Craftsmanship: The watch is housed in an ultra-thin case with sapphire crystal and often features luxurious details such as diamond-set crowns or precious metal cases. It uses reliable Swiss automatic or manual movements with a power reserve of around 42 hours.
• Collectors’ Item: Due to its limited production runs and unique approach, the Coin Watch is highly valued by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate both its numismatic and horological heritage.
• Continuing Legacy: Corum has repeatedly reissued and updated the Coin Watch over the decades, including versions with black lacquered finishes or use of other rare coins, maintaining its place as a symbol of history and Swiss watchmaking innovation.

Worn by U.S. presidents, royalty, and cultural figures, the Coin Watch is a statement of elegance, tradition, and ingenuity. It blends horology with numismatics and has remained a coveted collector’s item for decades.

4. Corum Bubble Watch (Launched: 2000)

The Corum Bubble is one of the most unconventional and instantly recognizable watches ever created. Defined by its massive domed sapphire crystal, approximately 11mm thick, the Bubble creates a striking magnifying, fish-eye effect that dramatically enhances the visual impact of the dial. This bold crystal sits atop an oversized case, typically 45mm or larger, giving the watch an unmistakable presence on the wrist.

Originally conceived under the visionary leadership of Severin Wunderman, then-owner of Corum, the Bubble was designed to challenge traditional Swiss watchmaking norms. It quickly established itself as a bold departure from convention, blending high horology with whimsy, creativity, and artistic freedom. Over the years, the Bubble has evolved into a platform for surreal, playful, and avant-garde dial designs, transforming it from a timepiece into a statement of individuality and imagination.

What Makes the Corum Bubble Watch Famous?

Several features and qualities contribute to the Bubble’s cult status and enduring appeal:
• Oversized Domed Crystal: The most striking feature of the Bubble Watch is its oversized, domed sapphire crystal. This unique design element magnifies the dial and creates a distinct distortion effect, giving the watch its name and setting it apart from traditional timepieces.
• Bold and Playful Design: The Bubble Watch is celebrated for its bold and playful design. The oversized crystal and vibrant dial colors make it a statement piece that stands out on the wrist. Corum offers a variety of dial designs, including some with whimsical and artistic themes, such as the Joker version with an image of the Joker on the dial.
• Innovative Aesthetics: The Bubble Watch's innovative aesthetics challenge conventional watch design norms. Its unconventional shape and size make it a favorite among those who appreciate avant-garde and cutting-edge fashion.
• High-Quality Materials: Despite its playful design, the Bubble Watch is crafted with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. The use of premium materials such as stainless steel, titanium, and sapphire crystal reflects Corum's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
• Limited Editions and Collaborations: Corum has released several limited edition models and collaborations within the Bubble collection, adding to its exclusivity and desirability. These special editions often feature unique design elements and themes, making them highly sought after by collectors.
• Technical Excellence: While the Bubble Watch is known for its distinctive design, it also boasts technical excellence. The watches often feature precise and reliable mechanical movements, showcasing Corum's expertise in watchmaking.
• Cultural Impact: The Bubble Watch has made a significant impact on popular culture and has been worn by celebrities and watch enthusiasts alike. Its unique design has been featured in various media and fashion contexts, further enhancing its fame and appeal.

The Corum Bubble watch has been released in numerous limited-edition designs featuring skulls, art pieces, pop culture themes, and bold dial graphics. Though controversial when first introduced, it developed a cult following and stands as a testament to Corum’s willingness to disrupt norms and embrace creative freedom.

5. Corum Ti-Bridge Watch (Launched: 2009)

The Corum Ti-Bridge Watch is a modern and industrial reinterpretation of Corum’s iconic Golden Bridge concept. While the Golden Bridge features a vertical, baguette-shaped movement, the Ti-Bridge reimagines this architecture in a horizontal format, housed within a robust titanium case, hence the name “Ti-Bridge”. The watch often features automatic or hand-wound calibers like the CO 007 and CO 313, providing a power reserve around 40 hours and frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, depending on model.

What Makes Corum Ti-Bridge Watch Famous?

The Corum Ti-Bridge watch has earned its reputation through a combination of bold design, mechanical ingenuity, and modern craftsmanship. Here’s what sets it apart:
• Innovative Material: The Ti-Bridge utilizes titanium, a lightweight and durable material, which enhances comfort while providing a contemporary look.
• Unique Design: The watch features a striking bridge-like structure that visibly supports the movement, creating a three-dimensional effect. This design emphasizes the technical prowess of the watch.
• Skeletonized Movement: The Ti-Bridge showcases a skeletonized movement, allowing wearers to see the intricate mechanics at work. This transparency highlights Corum's commitment to craftsmanship.
• Limited Production: Like many Corum watches, the Ti-Bridge is produced in limited quantities, which increases its desirability among collectors and watch enthusiasts.
• Award-Winning Design: The Ti-Bridge has received accolades for its innovative design and engineering, further solidifying its status in the luxury watch market.

With subsequent models featuring dual barrels, chronographs, and advanced materials, the Ti-Bridge reflects Corum’s ongoing commitment to engineering excellence and contemporary design.

Most Expensive Corum Watches

The most expensive Corum watch to date is the Corum Bubble 47 Tourbillon, which was unveiled at the Baselworld watch fair. This luxurious timepiece features a unique design with a large, domed sapphire crystal and a striking tourbillon movement, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovative craftsmanship. The watch is crafted from high-quality materials, including 18-karat gold and features intricate detailing that enhances its exclusivity.

The price of the Corum Bubble 47 Tourbillon can exceed $200,000, depending on the specific model and customization options. This high price tag reflects not only the complexity of the tourbillon mechanism but also the artistic design and limited production, making it a coveted piece for collectors and enthusiasts of luxury watches. Corum's ability to blend avant-garde aesthetics with traditional watchmaking techniques contributes to the allure and value of this exceptional timepiece.

Below are some of the most expensive Corum watches, known for their exceptional craftsmanship and unique features:

1. Corum Golden Bridge Tourbillon - This iconic model is renowned for its transparent case and linear movement, showcasing exquisite horological artistry. Limited editions can sell for several hundred thousand dollars, particularly those with luxurious embellishments.
2. Corum Bubble - The Corum Bubble is famous for its oversized case and bold design. Special editions, especially those featuring unique artwork or rare materials, can command high prices, often reaching into the tens of thousands.
3. Corum Admiral's Cup AC One 45 Tourbillon - This watch combines sporty aesthetics with high-end complications. The tourbillon movement and distinctive nautical design make it a sought-after piece, often priced in the six-figure range.
4. Corum Romulus - The Romulus series features elegant designs with intricate details. Some limited editions, particularly those crafted with gold or embellished with diamonds, can reach significant prices.

Corum Watches Features

Corum watches are renowned for their unique blend of bold design, Swiss precision, and innovative engineering. Here are some standout key features that define Corum timepieces:

# 1. Unique Designs: Corum is renowned for its unique and avant-garde watch designs. One of its most iconic models is the Corum Admiral's Cup, which features a dodecagonal (12-sided) case and nautical pennant-inspired hour markers.

# 2. High-Quality Materials: Corum watches are crafted from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, titanium, gold, and sapphire crystal. Some models also feature exotic materials like carbon fiber and ceramic.

# 3. Precision Movements: Corum uses both mechanical and quartz movements in its watches. The brand is known for its precision and reliability, with many models featuring Swiss-made automatic movements.

# 4. Innovative Complications: Corum offers a range of complications in its watches, including chronographs, moon phases, and dual time zones. The brand is also known for its innovative approaches to watchmaking, such as the rolling cube mechanism in the Corum Golden Bridge.

# 5. Heritage and Craftsmanship: Founded in 1955, Corum has a rich heritage in Swiss watchmaking. The brand's watches are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.

# 6. Water Resistance: Many Corum watches are designed with water resistance in mind, making them suitable for various water activities. The Admiral's Cup collection, for instance, is inspired by sailing and is often water-resistant to significant depths.

# 7. Iconic Watch Collections: Some of Corum's most iconic collections include the Admiral's Cup, the Golden Bridge, the Bubble, and the Romulus. Each collection has its own unique design language and features.

# 8. Limited Editions: Corum frequently releases limited edition watches, often in collaboration with artists, designers, and other brands. These limited editions are highly sought after by collectors.

These features make Corum watches not only reliable timekeepers but also bold expressions of individuality and artistic flair.

Corum Watches Heritage & Lab Collections

The Heritage collection revisits classic Corum designs from the 1960s and 1970s, such as the Coin watch, blending vintage charm with modern craftsmanship. The Lab collection, meanwhile, is a platform for experimentation, featuring cutting-edge technology and sustainable materials, as seen in the recent Concept Watch with a flying tourbillon and recycled titanium case.

Technical Innovations

Corum’s reputation for innovation is not limited to aesthetics. The brand has introduced several technical advancements that have set new benchmarks in the industry:

• Linear Movement (Golden Bridge): Developed by Vincent Calabrese, the linear movement of the Golden Bridge is a marvel of engineering, offering both visual drama and mechanical excellence. 
• Use of Unconventional Materials: Corum has pioneered the use of materials such as titanium, ceramic, and recycled textiles, enhancing both the durability and environmental sustainability of its watches. 
• Artistic Movement Construction: The brand’s willingness to experiment with movement architecture, such as the baguette movement and floating tourbillons, has resulted in timepieces that are as much works of art as they are feats of engineering.

These innovations have helped Corum maintain a niche appeal among collectors who value both technical mastery and artistic expression.

Celebrities Who Wear Corum Watches

Presidents George H. W. Bush, Ronald Reagan, Lyndon B. Johnson, Jimmy Carter, Richard Nixon, and Bill Clinton have all worn Corum’s coin watches, while Andy Warhol championed the brand’s artistic daring . This confluence of politics, art and horology underscores Corum’s unique ability to transcend traditional luxury boundaries and set cultural as well as technical benchmarks.

Brand Ambassador of Corum Watches

The global brand ambassador of Corum watches is the Chinese actor and model Hu Bing. He was officially announced as Corum's global ambassador in 2018 and has since been featured in their campaigns, perfectly embodying the brand's elegant and avant-garde spirit. Hu Bing is known for his fashion influence and has contributed significantly to promoting Corum's collections worldwide.

Corum Limited Edition Watches & Collaborations

Corum's dedication to exclusivity is reflected in its limited edition timepieces and collaborations with renowned artists and designers. The brand often releases special editions that celebrate significant events or artistic movements, further enhancing its appeal to collectors. These limited editions not only showcase Corum's creativity but also create a sense of urgency and desirability among watch enthusiasts.

Collaborations with artists, such as the partnership with Jean-Michel Othoniel, have resulted in unique timepieces that blur the lines between art and watchmaking. These collaborations highlight Corum's commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons in design, setting benchmarks for artistic expression in the watch industry.

Market Position & Reputation

Corum occupies a unique position in the luxury watch market. While it may not have the broad recognition of brands like Rolex or Omega, it appeals to a discerning clientele that values exclusivity, creativity, and technical innovation. 

Corum’s price points place it firmly in the high-end segment, with its watches often seen as both status symbols and investment pieces.The brand’s reputation among collectors is built on its history of daring design and mechanical excellence. Iconic models like the Heritage Coin watch and the Golden Bridge are highly sought after, and Corum’s limited production runs add to the exclusivity and desirability of its timepieces 

Recent Developments & Future of Corum

In 2025, Corum returned to Swiss ownership through a management buyout led by Haso Mehmedovic, the brand’s long-serving International Sales Director. This move marked a new chapter for Corum, with a renewed focus on creativity, innovation, and strengthening its core identity. 
 
Key Aspects of Corum’s Current Direction

• Global Relaunch: Planned for mid-2026, the relaunch aims to consolidate Corum’s presence in key markets and reinforce its distribution network. 
• Product Strategy: The brand is shifting towards developing fewer, more exclusive timepieces, aligning with evolving consumer preferences for novelty and rarity 
• Leadership Vision: Under Mehmedovic’s leadership, Corum is poised to reignite its creative force and reaffirm its place among the world’s leading luxury watchmakers. 

Despite challenges in recent years, including shifting consumer tastes and financial pressures, Corum’s new management sees significant opportunities to restore the brand’s prominence by leveraging its rich heritage and untapped potential.

Awards & Recognition Received

Corum's contributions to the world of watchmaking have not gone unnoticed. The brand has received numerous awards and accolades, including several Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHA) awards, which recognize excellence in watchmaking.

Influence On The Modern Watch Industry

Corum's innovative spirit has inspired many contemporary watchmakers. By pushing boundaries and embracing new materials and designs, Corum has challenged traditional concepts of luxury. The brand's emphasis on creativity encourages others in the industry to explore unconventional designs and revisit the art of watchmaking.

Moreover, Corum's limited-edition releases and collaborations with artists and designers have set a precedent for how luxury brands can engage with their audiences. This strategy not only fosters a sense of exclusivity but also creates a vibrant community of collectors.

FAQ

Who Owns Corum Watches

Corum Watches is presently owned by a group of Swiss investors following a management buyout in 2025. This acquisition was led by Haso Mehmedovic, Corum’s CEO and former sales director, marking the end of more than a decade of ownership by the Hong Kong–based Citychamp Watch & Jewellery Group. The move returns Corum to 100% Swiss governance and is intended to revitalize the brand's creative and innovative spirit under Mehmedovic’s leadership.

Where Are Corum Watches Made

Corum watches are made in Switzerland, specifically in La Chaux-de-Fonds, a city recognized as the heart of traditional Swiss watchmaking. All design, assembly, and manufacturing processes for Corum timepieces take place at this Swiss facility, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of craftsmanship expected from a luxury Swiss manufacturer.

Is Corum A Luxury Watch

Corum is firmly classified as a luxury watch brand. Its reputation in the luxury segment stems from its use of premium materials like gold, diamonds, and sapphire crystal along with limited editions, distinctive artistic designs, and technically innovative in-house movements like those found in the Admiral, Golden Bridge, and Coin Watch lines. Collectors and connoisseurs prize Corum for its creative spirit, exclusivity, and history of high-quality craftsmanship.

Why Are Corum Watches So Expensive

Corum watches are expensive primarily due to their limited production, use of premium materials (such as gold, titanium, and sapphire crystal), and complex mechanical movements; some of which are proprietary and handcrafted. Additionally, the brand’s strong design identity, Swiss manufacturing standards, and exclusivity add to their value and pricing.

How Can I Authenticate A Corum Watch

To authenticate a Corum watch, begin by researching the brand's official website to identify authorized dealers and comparing the watch’s details references, engravings, craftsmanship, and serial numbers with those of genuine models. Always request original documentation, such as certificates and receipts, from the seller. If in doubt, consult a professional appraiser or an authorized Corum service center. There are also trusted online authentication services specializing in luxury watches where experts can verify the authenticity of your timepiece using technology and detailed inspections.

Conclusion

Corum watches have journeyed from a small Swiss atelier to becoming benchmark-setting innovators in the global watch industry. A testament to the power of creativity, technical mastery, and a fearless willingness to defy convention. With their iconic collections, groundbreaking technical achievements, and a renewed strategic vision, Corum watches continue to set standards that inspire both the industry and watch enthusiasts worldwide. As the brand embarks on its next chapter, it remains a symbol of what is possible when tradition meets innovation in the art of watchmaking.