Beyer
Beyer Chronometrie is a watch retailer on Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich, Switzerland, whose store first opened in 1822. It is run by the Beyer family, whose watchmaking line began in Germany in 1760.
| Zurich store opened | 1822 |
|---|---|
| Family line began | Germany, 1760 |
| Location | Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich |
| Museum | Uhrenmuseum Beyer |
| Patek Philippe boutique | Opened 2011 |
| Website | beyer-ch.com |
What is Beyer?
Beyer, or Beyer Chronometrie, is a family-owned watch store on Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich's main shopping street. Its Zurich store first opened in 1822, and the press describes it as the oldest watch store in the world.
History
The Beyer family dynasty began in Germany in 1760. René Beyer, the eighth generation, took over as managing director and proprietor around 1996 and remained so until his death in April 2025. Ownership then reportedly passed to his widow, with his sister Muriel Zahn-Beyer managing operations. Hanspeter Pieth became CEO in early 2023.
Products and positioning
The business sells watches, including Patek Philippe, for which it opened a boutique in 2011, and also deals in historical clocks and marine chronometers. It stayed a local Zurich operation rather than expanding nationally or internationally.
Why it matters
The store houses the Uhrenmuseum Beyer in its basement, which displays clocks and watches including three pieces by George Daniels, alongside work by Breguet and Ferdinand Berthoud.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Beyer from?
Beyer is a Swiss watch retailer based on Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich.
What does Beyer sell?
Beyer sells watches, including Patek Philippe, and deals in historical clocks and marine chronometers.