François Perez, Technical Director and Movement Constructor at Biver (Givrins, Switzerland)

What does it take to create a timepiece that transcends mere function and becomes a work of art? How do watchmakers incorporate elements of design and aesthetics into their creations? And what specific skills and techniques are necessary to elevate a watch from a simple tool to an object of beauty and wonder?

With a career distinguished by multiple world records in horological innovation, François Perez, Technical Director and Movement Constructor at Biver, draws on both his personal achievements and the brand's meticulous approach to advance the art and science of horology.

At the February 2025 lecture of the Horological Society of New York (HSNY), Perez will discuss the processes that transform raw materials into exceptional mechanical timepieces. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship involved in creating high-end watches at Biver, as well as the careful balance between preserving traditional techniques and embracing modern advancements.

*Doors open at 5:30 PM ET, lecture to begin at 6 PM ET. RSVP is required.

** The lecture video will be available to members immediately, and to the general public following a two-month delay.

About François Perez

François Perez (1988) was born in Paris and began his schooling at the École Alsacienne in Paris, later attending the Lycée Saint-Denis in Loches, where he earned a scientific baccalaureate with honors. He then moved to Switzerland to attend the Haute École Arc Ingénierie in Le Locle, pursuing his passion for precision engineering. There, he earned a bachelor’s degree in microtechnology and watchmaking engineering, with a specialization in watch construction and complications.

In 2012, after completing his schooling, François joined Concepto Watch Factory, one of Switzerland’s premier movement developers and manufacturers. He spent the next decade at Concepto creating no fewer than 36 unique movements and setting three world records in the process. Among his creations are the Datora for Breitling, the Tourbillon Chronograph (WR), Finissimo Ultra, and Finissimo Ultra COSC (WR) for Bvlgari, the Bugatti Chiron for Jacob & Co., the Maximus (WR) for Kerbedanz, and the Memoris and Tourbillon Chronograph Memoris for Louis Moinet. These creations, among others, earned François a reputation for pushing boundaries and achieving technical excellence across the Swiss watch industry.

François joined Biver as Technical Director in 2022, overseeing the technical office and managing the setup, recruitment, and development of the brand’s watchmaking and decoration workshops, as well as handling logistical operations. He has overseen the development and creation of all Biver watches since the company’s inception and continues to work on new in-house Biver calibers, ensuring the brand’s continued success and growth. Every watch that leaves the Biver workshop passes under his careful eye before it reaches a customer’s wrist.