History

Carl Friedrich Bucherer opened his first watch and jewellery shop in Lucerne, Switzerland, in 1888. The company remained in family ownership for over 130 years, growing into one of Europe's most respected authorised retailers for the world's finest Swiss watches. In 2023, Rolex SA announced the acquisition of Bucherer — making the world's most famous watchmaker the owner of one of the world's most significant watch retailers. The acquisition was completed in late 2023.

The Stores

Bucherer operates over 100 stores across Europe and the United States, with flagship locations in Lucerne, Zurich, Geneva, Vienna, Hamburg, Paris and New York. The Lucerne flagship on the Schwanenplatz is one of the most beautiful watch retail spaces in the world, overlooking the lake in the heart of the city. US operations were significantly expanded through the acquisition of Tourneau, the long-established American watch retailer, in 2018.

Brands

Bucherer is an authorised retailer for Rolex, Tudor, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, IWC, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Omega, Cartier and many other Swiss manufacturers. The jewellery offering includes pieces from Bucherer's own fine jewellery collection alongside third-party designers. The Carl F. Bucherer watch brand — separate from the retail operation — produces its own Swiss-made movements.

CPO Programme

Bucherer's Certified Pre-Owned programme is one of the most trusted in the industry, offering authenticated and warranted pre-owned watches from the world's leading brands. Each piece undergoes full servicing and inspection before certification. The programme is particularly strong for Rolex, Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet.