It’s a warm summer Saturday evening in Geneva.

I’m gazing out my bedroom window as the golden 9:47 pm sunset reflects softly on my face.

My mind is swirling with thoughts—this week’s French test, what I’ll cook tonight, and, naturally, watches.

And then it hits me…

Le raison d’être. Our reason for being.

The Beningginng. (that’s not a typo—thank you, Jacob Zuma.)

Maison Amahle is not, and will never be, just about making watches.

We serve as a generational springboard of inspiration and hope.

We aim to inspire tastemakers to unleash their creative brilliance. To walk boldly in their God-given purpose. To fully share the gifts and talents they possess with the world.

The watches we craft are simply a reflection and celebration of the genius that lives within you.

Hi, my name is Nigel, the co-pilot of Maison Amahle. I’m Zimbabwean, raised in Botswana and South Africa. Currently based in Switzerland.

Hence, at the heart of the Maison lies our African DNA.

We exist for the artisan. Raised in Soweto, South Africa, who will one day be celebrated as a global watchmaker. For the visionary designer from Gweru, Zimbabwe, whose creations will grace the wrists of presidents and prime ministers. For the engineer from Serowe, Botswana, who will redefine watch movement decoration with her ingenuity. It is for her—and those like her—that we exist.

By forging connections between Southern Africa and Switzerland, we strive to give her the global platform she deserves, where her talent can truly shine.

One of our core values is Radical Honesty—always speaking the truth.

I’ve loved watches since I was young, but here’s the reeeal, unfiltered reason I moved from Botswana to Switzerland.

I’m Christian, and my life is guided by the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ. Whether or not you share my faith, I mention this because it’s central to my story.

At 16, God planted the dream of creating watches in my heart. Now, at 25, that dream is still unfolding.

I can hardly draw, but I spent 3 years designing watch concepts, before knowing I’d move to Switzerland.

In 2019, I had a prophetic word that I would come to Switzerland to make watches.

That very evening, I began applying to schools in Switzerland, and just a few months later, I found myself on an Airbus A380 for the first time in my life.

It took a lot of faith, a bit of naivety, and here we are.

I share this to explain the deeper reason behind building this brand. It didn’t start with a brilliant business plan or 23+ years of experience in the industry. Instead, it is a divine calling.

There are far too many people who have been part of this journey for me to name all here, but know that I did not come this far alone.

When the magazines write about us, remember two things: First, it’s all for God’s glory; and Secondly, an entire army of friends, family, colleagues, and strangers have made this dream a reality.

Now, here’s my promise to you.

I’ve never been a fan of creating ‘ordinary stuff’—who is, really?

My promise is that we will audaciously strive to create extraordinary works of art. Untamed pieces of art crafted for those who colour outside the lines.

Our vision is clear: To establish Maison Amahle as Africa’s leading luxury watch brand as a beacon of inspiration and hope. A story passed down through generations.

And in the words of the wise DJ Khaled: ‘They didn’t believe in us… God did!’

–Nigel, co-pilot

Introduction to the Maison

The MA Studio