About us
Vinyler began with a simple question: what if an old record didn't end up gathering dust on a shelf or being thrown away, but could keep on playing in a different way? Christoph, the founder of Vinyler, is an inventor, a music lover and a passionate watch enthusiast. Determined to bring those worlds together, he began experimenting in 2018, researching materials, building prototypes and testing ideas from his garage at home.
In 2024, Christian joined the team: a business economist, project manager and aesthete. He brought what every good idea eventually needs: structure and a calm counterbalance. Today, Vinyler is run by two Chrigus, both of whom are convinced that a crazy idea can turn into something lasting.
The minds behind Vinyler
Christoph Guggisberg
Christoph, who now lives in Thun, grew up in Zimmerwald, a small village in the canton of Bern, where he had plenty of time to think, tinker and listen to music. He’s the sort of person who lies awake at three in the morning because an idea won’t leave him alone and is already in the workshop the next morning. His passion for mechanics, watches and vinyl drives him every day. For him, it’s not the quick result that counts, but what lasts.
Christian Affolter
Christian grew up on Lake Thun. Anyone who grows up there learns early on what it means to take a moment to reflect. He listens first, then makes a decision. He loves things that are well made: a good wine, a well-thought-out design, products with character. When things quieten down in the evening, he organises his thoughts, reflects on them and decides on the next steps. The following day, he puts them into action.
The beginning
of Vinyler’s
success story
2018 – The idea starts to take shape. The research becomes increasingly intensive. No one has ever done anything quite like it before — a challenge that is as intimidating as it is motivating.
Test workshop
My garage is turning into a test workshop. I drilled, milled, failed – and carried on.
Doubts creep in from time to time. I ask myself whether this is really worth pursuing. Yet I keep coming back to the same belief: this could become something truly unique.
Initial product development
Initial in-depth product development. The key question: How can a vinyl record be adapted to function as a watch dial without losing its character and unique aesthetic?
This complex development stage alone required more than a year of research and development work.
The brand
Two designs and the ‘Vinyler’ brand were registered as intellectual property in Switzerland and the EU. And so finally came the moment of relief when I could talk to friends and acquaintances about my crazy idea.
The Swiss watch industry
I start looking specifically for movement and component suppliers, as well as partners who can help with the final stages of development.
It takes a lot of courage. Suddenly, as someone from a completely different background with a bold idea, I find myself knocking on the doors of long-established watchmaking companies that have been doing this for decades.
First prototypes
My courage, my powers of persuasion and my hard work in all the preparatory work I’d done are paying off and helping me to contribute to discussions on an equal footing right from the start.
The first six finished, working prototypes are delivered. After five years, I suddenly find myself holding something in my hands that ticks. That really ticks. An incredible feeling and a fantastic milestone that spurs me on to carry on.
Getting off to a flying start
A pivotal year for Vinyler, during which I decided to take my idea even further into the public eye and expand my network even more. Vinyler was accepted into the Canton of Bern’s start-up support programme.
Christian Affolter, my long-standing friend, joins as co-founder – not just an emotional moment, but above all a strategically very important one in the development of Vinyler.
Website launch
Our first successful funding round, thanks to the people who trust us and believe in our idea – we are incredibly grateful. The launch campaign is taking shape. Vinyler is ready.
Vinyler Haus 51
The year we’ve been working towards. On 30 May, Vinyler Haus 51 in Thun opens its doors — our workshop and a gathering place for vinyl and analogue lovers. Only three days later, on 2 June, we launch on Kickstarter.
Eight years. From a spontaneous idea after work to this point. A long journey, but one we would take again without a second thought.
Vinyler Haus 51
Vinyler Haus 51 is situated on Obere Hauptgasse in Thun – our workshop and meeting place for vinyl and analogue enthusiasts. This is where the story of every Vinyler watch begins: with the selection of the right record and the production and milling of the dial that it will one day feature.
But Vinyler Haus 51 is more than just a workshop. It’s a place where you can watch as a worn-out record is transformed into something lasting. Where you can browse through record shelves, listen to analogue music and simply linger over a nice drink. A place for good conversations, for people who appreciate things with character, and for everyone for whom the handmade means more than the perfect.
Vinyler Haus 51 isn’t your typical shop: we don’t have fixed opening hours. Anyone who’d like to pop in is very welcome – just give us a quick ring to make sure we’re actually there.
And if we’re not available, why not have a browse through our online shop? You’re sure to find your new Vinyler there.
