Théodore Gribi
Théodore Gribi (1840–1922) was a Swiss watchmaker who spent most of his career in America.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1840 in Bern, Switzerland, Théodore Gribi established himself in watchmaking as a young man.
Philadelphia Universal Exhibition
Gribi was appointed as the official delegate for watchmaking and precision instruments at the 1876 Philadelphia Universal Exhibition. Choosing to stay in the United States, he established himself in Chicago and later, from 1915, in Los Angeles.
Renowned as a watchmaker-adjuster, Gribi played a pivotal role in elevating American watchmaking. His advocacy for the reorganization of the manufacturing system, as expressed in a circular during the Philadelphia exhibition, showcased his foresight in positioning the American industry on a global scale.
Despite his prolonged stay in the United States, Gribi maintained a profound attachment to his Swiss roots. In a circular reproduced by a prominent journal during the Philadelphia exhibition, he emphasized the need for a serious reorganization of the national industry's manufacturing system to keep pace with the advancements in American factories.
Gribi's contributions extended beyond practical expertise. From 1899 to 1901, he published the "Practical Setting Course" in the Jewelers' Circular, New York. This treatise, later revised and supplemented, became an essential resource for watch adjusters, complementing theoretical publications on watch regulation.
Legacy and Recognition
Gribi's influence transcended technical realms, as seen in his philosophical reflections on global events. In a 1921 letter addressing the aftermath of World War I, he offered a nuanced perspective on political and economic changes, highlighting both positive and negative consequences.
Théodore Gribi's legacy endures through his lasting impact on the American watchmaking industry. His keen observations, advocacy for industry improvement, and technical prowess have left an indelible mark. Gratefully remembered by his compatriots, Gribi's invaluable services during his extended stay in the United States continue to be acknowledged in the horological and industry advocacy spheres.
Gribi passed away in 1922 at the age of 82 in Los Angeles, leaving behind a legacy that resonates in the annals of horology and industry advancement. Despite his unfulfilled desire to revisit Switzerland, his compatriots remember him with gratitude for the significant contributions made to the Swiss watchmaking industry abroad.