Victor Bonnaire was born from Todd Reed and Andrew Berg's shared passion for horology—the science of studying the measurement of time. The brand was created with one vision: to curate exceptional vintage watches that tell a story. Far from being a person, the name “Victor Bonnaire” embodies an ethos—a deep commitment to the craft, the art, and the history behind each piece of vintage timekeeping.
“Starting Victor Bonnaire with Andrew is more than a passion project,” Todd Reed, award-winning fine jewelry artist and designer and co-founder of Victor Bonnaire, says of the venture. “We are both extremely excited to bring the experience of curated vintage watches to the world. Although we see no limit to the reach we have, we absolutely love being based in Boulder and are grateful to be woven into the community fabric.”
Andrew Berg, the face and voice of the company, brings a wealth of knowledge and personal investment to the brand. He’s not only the sales presence but also the driving force behind the vision and curation that defines Victor Bonnaire. “Watches have always been a passion of mine,” Andrew explains. “I could talk about them for hours. So, approaching this as a business has created this rush, this excitement that I haven't felt in my professional life before. When you're deeply invested in something you love, every challenge feels like an opportunity—especially an opportunity to learn.”
“We believe that a watch is more than just a tool to tell time—it’s a way to tell your story,” Andrew says. This perspective has influenced how Victor Bonnaire engages with its customers through social media. A series titled Who Is Victor Bonnaire? showcases customers’ stories and how they connect with their timepieces, reinforcing the idea that watches are personal and reflective of the individual.
For Andrew and Todd, vintage watches are not merely about aesthetics or craftsmanship; they are about creating an emotional connection. “For me, the allure of vintage watches lies in their unlimited potential for personal style,” Andrew shares. “In a world where so much is mass-produced and disposable, vintage watches offer a connection to history and craftsmanship that's growing increasingly rare.”
When it comes to sourcing watches, Todd’s keen eye and experience are integral. Much of their initial inventory came from Todd’s personal collection, built over years of careful curation. Today, the search for exceptional pieces is an ongoing process. “We’re constantly scouring auctions, estate sales,” Andrew explains. “It’s a never-ending treasure hunt, really, and that’s what makes it so exciting.”
Authenticity and condition are paramount to Victor Bonnaire’s approach. “We meticulously check all the stamps, numbers, and crests inside the watch, which point to its approximate year and origin, and provide information about the movement itself,” Andrew emphasizes. “As for condition, we want our pieces to still be beautiful in presentation while being careful not to alter the original character of the watch.” The company’s attention to detail is not only about maintaining the integrity of the pieces but also about ensuring their longevity.
One of the brand’s key goals is to offer vintage watches at a range of price points. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your journey into horology, Victor Bonnaire believes everyone should have access to exceptional pieces. “Excellence presents itself in all sorts of ways and isn’t confined to just luxury price tags,” Andrew says. “Our goal is to help people find that perfect piece that resonates with them, regardless of their budget.” Some of the watches Victor Bonnaire carries from lesser-known brands use the same movements as high-end luxury pieces. Quality is not just about the name on the dial—it’s about the craftsmanship that goes into it.
For those just beginning their journey into vintage watches, the Victor Bonnaire team has advice. “Look beyond the big brand names,” Andrew suggests. “Yes, Rolex, Cartier, etc., are incredible, and we’re fortunate to carry some special pieces from these makers, but there’s a whole world of fantastic watches out there from lesser-known brands. Start by identifying what fits your style… Learn about a brand, ask questions, and, most importantly, choose the watch that you'll enjoy wearing for years to come.”
Victor Bonnaire's founders are optimistic as the market for vintage timepieces continues to grow. “I see a growing appreciation for mechanical objects in our increasingly digital world,” Andrew reflects. These days, many people are looking for tactile objects that offer a connection to history and craftsmanship. That’s where Victor Bonnaire comes in.
Looking ahead, the duo is excited about Victor Bonnaire's future. “To help meet the brand’s growing interest, we’re anticipating a public retail footprint and the expansion of our watch repair team,” Andrew reveals. “We're also planning numerous events for this year to further connect with our incredible community and remain open and excited to engage any new collaborative opportunities.”
The world of vintage timepieces is vast, with countless stories waiting to be discovered. With Victor Bonnaire, both seasoned collectors and newcomers to horology can find a piece that speaks to them and offers not just a way to tell time but to wear a piece of history on their wrist. For Todd and Andrew, the Victor Bonnaire journey is just beginning, and their dedication to the craft is only growing stronger.
To learn more, visit VictorBonnaire.com