Helvetica is arguably one of the minimalist, simplistic, and easy-to-read fonts. Developed in 1957 by Swiss typeface designer Max Miedinger with the participation of Eduard Hoffmann, the sans serif creation is still popular with architects, designers, artists, innovators and influencers around the world.
To explain why Helvetica has become so ubiquitous, let's look at the reasons why many use the written word:
To communicate
When communicating, the font should neither distract nor distract from the message itself. Helvetica was created at a time when modernist architecture was doing away with superfluous decoration in favor of a rugged silhouette. In the same way, getting rid of the serif results in shapes so unobtrusive that they let the written words speak for themselves.
To create clarity
Helvetica is as much about the negative space it creates as it is about the structure of the letters. This balance creates efficiency that ensures clarity even when the words are small, broad, or in motion.
As a temptation
Used for logos (Nestlé, Lufthansa), public signage (MTA, CTA) and more, Helvetica is unmistakable even to those who don't know its rich history - their gaze is drawn to the familiar.
And now... why did Mondaine decide to dedicate a watch series to the renowned Helvetica typeface?
Founded in 1951 by Erwin Bernheim, we took inspiration from the iconic patented design of the Swiss railway clock and made it into a SBB watch collection with the official approval of the Swiss Federal Railways.
Almost 30 years later after the introduction of this “train station clock” we were in search of another Swiss icon, one that made sense when placed at the core of watch design. Helvetica - the Latin word for "Swiss" - is one of the most important and representative Swiss creations. It stands for many values and strengths of the Alpine republic: neutrality, discretion, clarity, efficiency and topicality. These values align perfectly with the Mondaine brand, which offers a sober and uncompromising approach to watch design.
In this way the Mondaine Helvetica No. 1 watch collection born. Just like the famous font, our watches are the epitome of craftsmanship, punctuality and precision.
From the classic Helvetica collection:
To the Spiekermann Edition
Our latest seasonal styles:
