Romain Gauthier’s entry into watchmaking was somewhat unconventional. Despite his upbringing in the Vallée de Joux and both his parents being actively involved in the watch industry, Romain wasn’t initially taken by watches. Instead, he chose to pursue his love for music and musical equipment as an area of study. Gauthier then pivoted, studying precision mechanics and then machine-tool construction. Whilst still at François Golay SA, Gauthier developed his first movement, which he worked on for over two years, using his employer's machines in evenings and weekends. He then launched his eponymous brand, seeking the guidance from other independant watchmakers such as Philippe Dufour. After Gauthier set out on his own, Dufour also helped him form relationships within the industry, such as organising a joint lunch between Dufour, Gauthier and a groups of collectors who visited the Vallée du Joux in 2010.