Belchengruppe - History, Models and Owners' Reviews

Belchengruppe, founded in 2020, is a young Swiss brand based in Basel led by designer Christoph Schnee; it targets enthusiasts of strong forms and alternative time displays, with mechanical watches whose architectural cases deliver a clear, distinctive personality.

Belchen mountains, faceted volumes and a solar calendar as compass

The name refers to the five “Belchen” peaks at the Swiss–French–German border once used as a solar calendar, and this idea of natural bearings informs the brand’s language: monobloc-like cases, sharp edges, minimized curves and volumes that play with light like a mountain ridge. This deliberately geometric aesthetic serves a clear yet off-center readout in which design intent matters as much as display.

“1247 Visuren” and “1247 120°”: contemporary families with stated readings

The range revolves around complementary pillars: “Visuren” uses radiant lines inspired by sightlines between the peaks, while “120°” divides the hour into three twenty-minute thirds to challenge our usual reading habits. You first choose a dial architecture (radiant or three-thirds), then the hue and wrist presence you prefer.

• Belchengruppe 1247 Visuren — Small seconds at 9 o’clock, shifted hour ring and a fine lattice of lines evoking sunrays and sightlines; graphic legibility with an “instrumental” design feel.
• Belchengruppe 1247 120° — Dial split into three 20-minute sections; a conceptual proposal that still reads intuitively.
• Belchengruppe 1247 120° Mitternacht — Dark variant with orange accents, heightening contrast and night presence.

Mechanics and build: pragmatic Swiss-made, Sellita and careful fine-tuning

The models use Sellita automatic calibres (small seconds at 9) chosen for robustness and serviceability, with setup geared to daily use; typical dimensions around 40 × 47 mm keep ergonomics in check despite the strong facets. This approach marries a proven engine to an intensely worked envelope, concentrating effort on perceived quality and coherent reading.

Positioning, pricing and reach: Swiss independent design with accolades

Belchengruppe sits in the “design-first” independent segment: steady yet measured releases, Swiss-made, and a selective distribution mix (direct plus chosen retailers). Known entry pricing starts around €1,835 depending on versions, with variants emphasizing textures, finishing and contrast; several pieces have received international design awards. The core audience consists of wearers who value bold formal identity as much as straightforward, everyday use.

Conclusion

Belchengruppe is for those who want a mechanical watch with a clear stance: a sculpted case, a dial that tells a story, and an instantly recognizable readout. “Visuren” suits graphic, day-to-day wear; “120°” appeals to the curious who enjoy a three-part sense of time; “Mitternacht” amplifies wrist impact via contrast. To finalize your pick, ground expectations in real-world ownership through Dialicious customer reviews before deciding.

(Updated August 2025)