The Renaissance of American Watchmaking: Cornell Watch Company Launches U.S.-Made Lozier

For those with an affinity for both horology and homegrown craftsmanship, the revival of the Cornell Watch Company in 2023 brings a refreshing leap to the American watchmaking. The company’s comeback stands notable amidst an era where the U.S., once a major player in global watch industry, has not been in the scene for more than 50 years. With the unveiling of the Lozier, a dress watch, as its first permanent-collection model, Cornell sets a precedent for American watchmakers. Despite the movement and the crystal being exceptions, this finely crafted piece hosts a majority of its components that are American made. Perhaps surprisingly, this patriotic piece comes with a mid-four-range price tag.

In its 2023 relaunch, Cornell Watch Co. collaborated with RGM to produce the costly and limited Cornell 1870 CE, which paired U.S. components with Swiss micro-rotor movement from Schwarz Etienne. Despite being a proud display of American manufacturing, its reliance on RGM and as a limited series meant it could not be a mainstay. Hence, the newly launched Lozier takes the spotlight as the brand’s flagship model.

The Lozier bears testament to Cornell’s commitment to domestic manufacturing, with the design and construction of the watch kept largely within U.S. premises. The company collaborated with Alex Voss Design Studio for technical designs, Hour Precision handled the machining in Columbus, and the assembly was executed in Asheville by Justin Harrell and Sergio Berrios. Other contributors include Veblenist in Chicago for the nubuck leather strap, and Alro Steel in Michigan for the construction steel. The Swiss crafted movement (by Sellita), the crystal (sourced from Numata Kouki Co. in Japan) and the screws (from Taiwan) are the exceptions to the local production.