Cult brand in watersports
Wempe as a favourite
Anyone who has held a Wempe in their hands understands why people keep coming back for more. Wempe is not a brand you choose because you have to; you choose it because you want to. Among sailors and watersports enthusiasts worldwide, Wempe has achieved the status of a true cult brand. The finish is so meticulous, every detail so well thought out, that the instrument speaks before it has ticked a single second. From the brushed brass casing to the precisely calibrated dial, this is craftsmanship that lasts for generations. The same quality standard found in the world of luxury watches – Wempe is known as a premium jewelry brand – is reflected in every ship's clock, barometer, and chronometer. Enthusiasts collect Wempe instruments not only for onboard use but also for their homes: on the mantelpiece, on the desk, on the wall. A Wempe is a statement.
Studio Maritime has been a Wempe expert for 15 years
Choose your series
Classic & Timeless
- Handmade brass and chromed brass
- Mechanical, hand-wound movements
- Timeless Roman or Arabic dials
- Series: Skiff, Eleganze, Bremen II, Skipper
Modern & Maritime
- Modern Matt black or Stainless steel finish
- Quartz battery-powered movements
- Sleek, modern dials
- Series: Navigator II, Pilot V, Commander, Pilot III
Professional & Weather Stations
- Complete sets: clock, barometer & hygrometer
- Accurate barometers & ship's clocks
- Hygrometers for onboard humidity
- Series: Chronometers, Barograph, Admiral III, Cup II
Established in 1878, evolved into a global standard
Wempe was founded in 1878 by the young watchmaker Gerhard Wempe in Elsfleth, on the Weser river. Since then, this German family business has grown into one of the most prominent names in the world of watches, jewellery, and maritime instruments.
In 1905, shipowners from Hamburg and Bremen founded Chronometerwerke to no longer be dependent on the English manufacturers of the time, which is why that name can still be seen under the current logo. Today, many clock systems on superyachts and luxury cruise ships are from Wempe, the only company in Europe that still produces mechanical ship chronometers.
Classic & Timeless
The 185 mm Royal King in brass or stainless steel is the successor to Wempe's most famous Admiral series. This collection is a gem among boat ornaments.
Modern & Maritime
Wempe Regatta II ship clocks, barometers, and comfortmeters in a modern porthole design. Maritime precision with a contemporary look.
Specialist & functional
Wempe chronometers in brass and mahogany. Exclusive maritime precision instruments with quartz or mechanical movement and timeless design.
Time with real value
About Wempe
An international premium brand where maritime precision meets luxury watchmaking and jewelry. What sets WEMPE apart is that each maritime instrument is approached like a luxury timepiece: meticulously assembled, perfectly finished, and built to last. Ship's clocks, barometers, and chronometers combine functional accuracy with a look that instantly enhances your interior.
The materials weren't chosen for show, but for their combination of class and character: warm brass, modern stainless steel, and light yet strong aluminum. Everything feels solid, well-designed, and "finished." And that's precisely the charm: WEMPE isn't a piece of decoration that happens to work, because technically they're sublime; it's an instrument so beautiful that you forget how technically advanced it actually is. Choosing WEMPE means choosing timeless luxury with a maritime feel.
Why Wempe
Handmade
Each instrument handcrafted and tested
Since 1905
More than 120 years of craftsmanship from Hamburg (Germany)
Leading brand
Official supplier to cruise and research vessels
On the water & at home
Functional on board, decorative in the home or office
Old versus new
The Power of Wempe
The strength of WEMPE lies in precision and heritage. What was once developed for use at sea remains unchanged in quality and craftsmanship today.
At first glance, the clocks seem almost identical — and that is no coincidence. Wempe consciously preserves the classic design that has proven itself over many years.
The differences lie in refinement. Subtle adjustments in finish, proportions, and details, such as an improved clasp and a more sleekly designed case, create a contemporary look without losing character.
New or classic: the foundation remains the same. The choice is in aesthetics — not in performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
WEMPE is a German premium brand with a history dating back to 1878. The family-owned company is known worldwide for its luxury watches, jewelry, and maritime instruments. Precision, craftsmanship, and lasting value are at the heart of everything WEMPE makes.
WEMPE Chronometerwerke, founded in 1905, is among the world's leading manufacturers of nautical instruments. Their time systems are standard equipment on board all German research vessels and various luxury cruise ships, including the MS Europa II .
The range includes ship's clocks, maritime chronometers, barometers, barographs, thermometers, hygrometers, and comfort meters. These instruments provide accurate information about time, weather, and climate, both on board and at home.
Yes. WEMPE instruments are designed for demanding maritime conditions, yet they also have a refined appearance. Chronometers and ship's clocks, in particular, are often chosen as functional statement pieces for the home or office.
With WEMPE, you're choosing a brand that's also active and well-known in the world of watches and luxury jewelry. You can feel, see, and experience the quality: premium materials, perfect workmanship, and precision that lasts for years. An instrument to be proud of, now and in the future.
Why Studio Maritime
Specialized in marine instruments
Over 25 years a leader in the field, known for shipsclockshop.com
Carefully selected assortment
With a focus on quality, appearance, and authenticity
Safe and reliable partner
Always sent insured, with track and trace, worldwide experience
Personal advice
We are happy to help you think about the most suitable solution