Chotovelli E Figli , or Chotovelli and Sons is a third generation Italian orologiaio (watchmaker) family, based in Torino. Back in 1920, a man by the name of Mr. Simone Chotovelli began repairing and restoring old mechanical movements, and he was known all over Italy for his incredible dedication and craft. In 1967, he passed on his knowledge and know how to his son Yitchak Chotovelli who continued the wishes of his father to also became a master watch-man. In the early ’80s Yitzchak moved his family to Antwerp with a foray into the fine jewelry and diamond trade, and for a short time the watch-focused family was silent. Only a few years ago however, in 2005, brothers and sister Chotovelli were inspired to revive the family tradition and launched the unique new line pictured here. Their popularity in Europe exploded, as they’re known for both their affordability (you get a U-boat look and feel at the fraction of the cost) and quality. If you’ve been lusting for a big face but balking at the limited-edition prices of U-boats, Panerai and the like, give these watches a look — 80 years of history can’t be wrong.

These watches are available online through our friends at WatchUSeek.com