Lip Chronograph Ninja MINT NOS 1975s

The watch brand Lip is particularly interesting in the watch scene for several reasons — historical, technical, and symbolic. Here are the main special features

1        French origin and tradition

Lip was founded in 1867 in Besançon (France) and is one of the oldest still active French watch brands. The brand is closely linked to the French watchmaking tradition and is considered one of the oldest still active French watch brands. Throughout its history, Lip has produced many style-defining models and technical innovations.

2          Technical innovations in the watch world

Lip introduced innovations multiple times, e.g., the “Electronic” series in the 1950s‑years as an early form of the electronic watch and experimented often introduced new things as a brand. In high-quality models, quality features like Breguet‑spirals in use. Lip was considered a pioneer in combining design and technology, e.g., with clear, modern dials and bold case shapes.

3        Political and social symbolic value

One of Lip's most distinctive features is not only the watch technology but also its role in French social history:

In the 1970s, Lip ran into economic difficulties. Management wanted to close the factory or reduce staff. The “Affaire Lip” in the 1970s made the brand a symbol of the labor movement: employees occupied the factory and temporarily organized production and sales under self-management. This  “Lip dispute” or Affaire Lip is considered a symbol of workers' struggles, the balance of power in companies, and the connection between economy and society in France. This background gives selected Lip watches an additional meaning – they are not just timepieces but also reminders of social movements and industrial change.

4        Revivals and Resurgences

After crises, takeovers, and new beginnings, Lip was revitalized multiple times. In the 1980s/1990s, takeovers, realignments, and licensing followed to save the brand. Today, the brand combines its historical heritage with modern manufacturing and heritage collections, focusing on design and quality.

5        Design and Style

Lip focuses on clear, easily readable designs and legendary heritage‑Models like T18, Himalaya, and Nautic. The style combines classic elegance with sporty elements and typical French design aesthetics.