Rexhep Rexhepi has quietly emerged as one of the most respected independent watchmakers of his generation. In an industry crowded with noise and novelty, his work under the Akrivia name has carved a space defined by timeless proportions, classical execution, and uncompromising hand-finishing.
A GENEVA FOUNDATION
Born in Kosovo and raised in Geneva, Rexhepi’s path into horology began early. At just 15 years old, he was accepted into an apprenticeship at Patek Philippe, one of the city’s most storied manufactures. It was here, among traditional benches and old-world techniques, that he developed an intimate respect for precision and discipline — qualities that would become central to his own atelier.
After Patek, he continued to refine his craft at FP Journe, another bastion of independent watchmaking, before founding Akrivia in 2012. The brand name itself, derived from the Greek word for “precision,” set the tone for what was to come.
AKRIVIA: THE WATCHMAKER’S WATCHMAKER
Akrivia watches aren’t designed to follow trends. There are no openworked dials for visual effect, no gimmicks to draw attention. Instead, Rexhepi focuses on subtle architectural forms, refined movement layouts, and exemplary hand-finishing.
From early models like the AK-06 with exposed mechanics, to the breakthrough Chronomètre Contemporain I in 2018, every piece follows a coherent philosophy: purity of form, executed with the highest traditional standards. His watches are time-consuming to produce — and that’s the point. Each one bears not only his name but the fingerprints of Geneva’s most patient techniques.
ONLY WATCH 2021: A DEFINING MOMENT
In 2021, Rexhepi solidified his global standing at the Only Watch charity auction, presenting the Chronomètre Contemporain II “RRCCII”. Rendered in rose gold with a translucent grand feu enamel dial and a newly constructed calibre, the piece exuded restraint and elegance. But beneath the dial was a technical marvel — featuring symmetrical movement architecture, stop seconds, and hacking functionality.
The watch sold for CHF 800,000, almost doubling its estimate. But beyond the number, the auction proved that collectors were willing to place immense value on refinement, not just spectacle. The RRCCII didn’t shout — it whispered, and the room leaned in.
THE SIGNATURE OF INTEGRITY
While many independent brands lean on creative marketing or outsourced parts, Rexhepi insists on in-house production and tight control over quality. Every component is designed, decorated, and assembled in Geneva by his small team. Even the case shapes are bespoke and hand-finished. His watches carry the “REXHEP REXHEPI” name on the dial — a quiet but firm stamp of responsibility.
That approach comes at a cost. Production is limited, waiting lists are long, and resale demand often exceeds availability. Yet Rexhepi refuses to expand too quickly, opting instead to let craft dictate capacity, not market pressure.
“The sole recipe is authenticity. Being true to yourself, open, genuine, crystal-clear. No sleight of hand, no role-playing. Be yourself, pursue your dream. It’s as simple as that. But it’s a long road…”
— Rexhep Rexhepi
A NEW CLASSIC
Rexhep Rexhepi is not interested in reinventing the wheel — he’s restoring it. In doing so, he has become the spiritual heir to Geneva’s golden age, bringing back an era where the term “master watchmaker” meant just that.
His work is not vintage homage. It is not contemporary flair. It is the middle path — the rare moment when craft, design, and honesty meet.
For an in-depth look at Rexhep Rexhepi’s philosophy, watchmaking approach, and his work under Akrivia, visit the official Akrivia website and explore his profile on The Hour Glass, which documents his journey as one of the leading voices in contemporary independent horology.
