Today, I’d like to talk about a school watch project that has turned into a watchmaking venture which has not gone unnoticed since its launch. Of course, I am referring to the project of Jean Khatchadourian. Before introducing his first horological creation, let me share the journey that led him here.
Art and mechanics have always been his passions. The son of a cabinetmaker, this French watchmaker grew up in a world overflowing with creativity. From playing the piano to painting and working with mechanics, creation has always been a way for him to express himself and convey his ideas. At 16, he discovered the world of watchmaking, where he saw the perfect marriage between art and mechanics. This universe remained a dream until the age of 19, when he decided to devote himself to it fully.
He first completed a CAP in Watchmaking and Jewelry Manufacturing from September 2022 to June 2023 at Lycée Edgar Faure, before continuing at the same institution with a Brevet des Métiers d’Art (BMA) in Watchmaking and Jewelry Manufacturing from September 2023 to June 2025. During this academic path, he gained experience through apprenticeships as a Watchmaking Apprentice. First at Utinam in Besançon for one year, then at Joaillerie Vaneste in Lille for two years.
As part of his diploma, he was required to design a school watch with a specific complication: a 24-hour day/night display with a semi-instantaneous jumping hour. This gave birth to the Jean Khatchadourian Grand Large. Inspired by the world of yachting, which shares the same values as watchmaking — attention to detail, pursuit of perfection, and dedication to craftsmanship — he created a watch that captures this essence: timeless beauty, refined lines, attention to detail, and above all, the idea of a journey towards the open sea. Now, let’s move on to the presentation of the watch.
Table of Contents – Jean Khatchadourian Grand Large
What are the features of the Jean Khatchadourian Grand Large?
Case
The Jean Khatchadourian Grand Large features a rose gold case with 100 m water resistance. Measuring 41 mm in diameter, the case is thoughtfully designed and finished, alternating between polished and satin-brushed surfaces that highlight each individual element. Details such as the lugs and crown guard showcase sharp edges combined with curved, organic shapes, reminiscent of the technical architecture of yachts. A special mention goes to the crown guard, which immediately reminded me of a boat’s keel, here softening the profile of the case.
Dial
The Jean Khatchadourian Grand Large is adorned with a dial made on an aventurine base, onto which Jean added hand-bevelled parts echoing the same attention to detail applied to the movement. A quick note on aventurine: it is a variety of quartz enriched with tiny mineral inclusions (such as fuchsite or hematite) that create its sparkling effect. A living material that plays with reflections, it represents a starry sky, making every glance at the watch unique. This dial features a 24-hour day/night display, semi-instantaneous jumping hours, and peripheral minutes.
Three signature elements highlight the inspiration behind this watch. The Whale Tail symbolizes freedom and elegance, a tribute to the natural world we will never surpass. The Throttle Lever conveys speed and energy — from the gentleness of a cruise to the intensity of acceleration, it inspires a serene mastery of the elements. Its sharp, mechanical lines directly inspired the dial’s indexes. Finally, the Helm provides direction, symbolising the chosen course, a metaphor for time we strive to control.
Movement
The Jean Khatchadourian Grand Large houses a modified ETA 6498 movement, the same calibre also used by other independents such as Felipe Pikullik or Laine. Offering a 52-hour power reserve and a frequency of 18,000 bph (2,5 Hz), it has been decorated with hand-bevels, perlage, and ruthenium finishes. Beyond these finishing touches, which I would consider standard for this type of watch, you’ll also notice touches of blue lacquer applied to certain components and on the caseback, adding contrast and creating a subtle reminder of the dial side.
Strap
The Grand Large is delivered on a ballistic rubber strap with a texture inspired by nautical ropes and lined with calf leather. I quite like the rope-inspired design — it may not be the most exclusive or luxurious choice, but it stands out for its originality and perfectly matches the watch’s DNA.
How much does the Jean Khatchadourian Grand Large?
The Jean Khatchadourian Grand Large was launched by subscription in a limited edition of 30 numbered pieces (22 in steel and 8 in rose gold). The steel version is priced at 25,000 CHF excl. taxes, while the prototype shown here in rose gold is priced at 36,000 CHF excl. taxes.
Jean Khatchadourian Grand Large: A poetic and original display
The Jean Khatchadourian Grand Large opens the door to a universe of freedom, pleasure, and elegance. Inspired by the lifestyle of yachtsmen, it embodies a love for the open sea and a desire for escape. This piece is the result of two years of passion and creation. Personally, I really enjoyed its time display, which I find original, as well as the overall spirit of the piece. The more you look at it, the more it makes you imagine embarking on a world tour by sea. Sparkling stars, the waves along the hull, and a beating mechanical heart.
I truly hope this watch will have the chance to cross oceans and live on through collectors who are touched by this horological project. I enjoyed my exchange with Jean, who at only 24 years old has created a highly interesting piece in terms of design and finishing. It’s worth noting that the watch shown in the photos is a prototype. Of course, the project will need to structure itself further to define a brand identity and clear direction, but with this article I wanted to highlight his work. If you are interested in subscribing to this model, feel free to contact me and I’ll be happy to connect you directly with Jean Khatchadourian.
Jean Khatchadourian Grand Large – Watch Specifications
- Brand: Jean Khatchadourian
- Model: Grand Large
- Case Material: Rose Gold
- Dial: Aventurine Stone
- Functions: 24-hour day/night display ; Semi-instantaneous jumping hours ; Peripheral minutes
- Movement: Customized ETA 6498, Manual-Winding, 18’000vph frequency (2.5 Hz)
- Power Reserve: 52 Hours
- Water Resistance: 10 ATM
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Case Back: Sapphire
- Case Dimension: 41 mm (Diameter)
- Strap: Ballistic rubber strap with a nautical ropes texture and rose gold pin buckle
- Availability : subscription in a limited edition of 30 numbered.
- Retail Price: Steel version is priced at 25,000 CHF (Excluding VAT)/ Rose Gold is priced at 36,000 CHF (Excluding VAT)
Have you heard of this first project by Jean Khatchadourian? What are your thoughts? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments.
For more information about Jean Khatchadourian, click here.
