Updating…
Vintage sterling silver stone dial and wooden case “Leuba Louis, Genève”, made circa 1960s. A stunning chatoyant tiger’s eye dial, framed in Brazilian rosewood and set in a large 28 x 33mm sterling silver tank case, powered by a manual winding Cal. AS 1977-2 movement. One of the most elegant pieces from one of Geneva’s most underrated watchmakers.
Two brands. One name. A legal battle in Geneva.
Favre-Leuba SA, a well-established Swiss watchmaker, had owned the «Favre-Leuba» trademark since 1911. Louis A. Leuba, a former employee, launched his own brand in 1952 – under his real name. After his death in 1959, his widow kept the company alive and, in 1960, registered a new “LEUBA” logo.
At first, Favre-Leuba turned a blind eye. But over time, confused customers, misdelivered packages, and mix-ups with suppliers pushed them to take legal action – demanding that Louis A. Leuba SA stop using the name and drop the logo.
Ironically, no one at Favre-Leuba even carried the “Leuba” name anymore. The verdict? The court ruled that using his own name was fair – but the logo was too close for comfort.
The name stayed. The trademark was cancelled.
A quiet but telling chapter in Swiss watchmaking: when legacy, branding, and personal identity collided. A rare statemental and wearable timepiece from a name that once made waves in Geneva.
Watch is in overall very good condition 9/10, never polished sharp case, running and ready to wear or gift!