Michael Happé has a passion for details, yet his brand Gavox still makes affordable, value for-money watches.

I know him for a long time and the least we can say is that he is a passionate person with a lot of energy.

In this interview I invite you to discover more about one of the key figures in the industry.

Tell us a bit about you and your story with watches.

My journey with watches began in the 70s, when quartz and digital watches were revolutionizing the industry.

I was captivated by the innovation and simplicity of brands like Casio. At 17, I received my first automatic watch, a Tissot, and that moment changed my perspective on horology forever.

Over time, I developed a passion for mechanical watches, influenced by my cousin, who worked in the Swiss watch industry with Omega.

These experiences inspired me to create something meaningful—not just for myself but for others who share an appreciation for craftsmanship, innovation, and storytelling.

When did the idea to create a new brand come to you, and when did you start working on the creation and launch ?

Gavox was founded in 2011 with a clear purpose: to create unique and timeless timepieces that resonate with people’s passions and lifestyles. Inspired by my cousin’s work at Longines,

I saw an opportunity to design watches that reflect not just function but also a story.

The goal has always been to bring together quality, design, and emotion into each watch, offering something special to clients who value authenticity.

Where does the name of your brand come from ?

“Gavox” is a fusion of the words “Galaxy” and “Vox,” meaning “voice of the galaxy.”

This name represents my fascination with space exploration, aviation, and the vast unknowns of the universe.

It also symbolizes the stories that each Gavox watch tells—a voice for the adventures, passions, and moments that matter most to those who wear them.

What’s most important to you in the process of creating your timepieces ?

The heart of my design process lies in creating watches that resonate with the wearer on a personal level.

Every detail—from the movement to the case shape and functionality—is carefully considered to ensure the final product is meaningful and distinctive.

I focus on finding the perfect balance between innovation and timelessness, avoiding homage designs to give each Gavox watch its own identity.

The ultimate goal is to offer clients something they can connect with, not just as a tool but as a reflection of their story.

Do you have an anecdote about the design and creation of one of your timepieces ?

The Gavox Aurora is a testament to the dedication and innovation that go into my designs.

It combines the complexity of multifunctional digital watches with the timeless elegance of traditional timepieces.

Designed with pilots and adventurers in mind, this watch was years in the making, resulting in a bi-directional quartz movement that simplifies multiple functions into four hands.

It’s a piece that reflects my commitment to creating something unique and truly functional.

What makes your watches special ?

Gavox stands out because of its commitment to quality and authenticity.

Each watch is designed with the client in mind, blending form and function to create something meaningful.

I personally oversee every aspect of the process, ensuring each timepiece meets the highest standards. Additionally, by avoiding intermediaries,

I’m able to keep prices fair without compromising on craftsmanship. Gavox watches are more than instruments—they’re personal companions with a story to tell.

How is your collection composed, and what is the price range ?

The Gavox collection is divided into four key categories: aviation, diving, dress, and racing-inspired watches.

Each collection is designed to suit different lifestyles and preferences, offering elegance, functionality, and a unique story in every piece.

Prices range from €200 to €1,500, making them accessible without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re looking for a reliable tool watch or a statement piece,

there’s something in the Gavox collection for you.

How many watches have you delivered ?

To date, I’ve had the privilege of delivering around 3,000 watches to military and air force squadrons (B2B) and another 4,000 directly to clients (B2C).

Each delivery represents a personal connection, and I take pride in knowing that Gavox watches are being used and cherished by people around the world.

What’s your flagship collection ?

Every collection at Gavox holds a special place, but the Legacy series stands out for its timeless elegance and philosophical depth.

The Gavox Legacy Ultima Necat, for example, carries a powerful reminder to seize the day and make the most of every moment.

While I value all my collections equally, the Legacy series resonates deeply because of its ability to inspire and connect with people on a personal level.

Do you have a favorite piece in your collection ?

One of my favorites is the Gavox Legacy Ultima Necat (Carpe Diem).

This piece embodies the idea of living fully and appreciating the fleeting nature of time.

It’s a design that encourages wearers to reflect on what truly matters, making it much more than just a watch.

What’s your approach to social media and marketing ?

Social media is a way for me to connect directly with clients and share my passion for watchmaking.

Platforms like Instagram and Facebook allow me to engage with the Gavox community, answer questions, and receive feedback.

I avoid traditional marketing gimmicks, preferring a more authentic and personal approach that reflects the values of the brand.

What’s your distribution strategy ?

I sell directly through my webshop to maintain a personal connection with my clients.

This approach ensures fair pricing and allows me to oversee the entire customer experience, from browsing to delivery.

By eliminating intermediaries, I can focus on creating high-quality watches while keeping the process transparent and straightforward.

What are your plans for the future ?

The future of Gavox is rooted in innovation and collaboration.

I plan to work with artists and brands to create limited collections that bring fresh perspectives to the world of watchmaking.

Additionally, I’m excited to participate in international watch fairs and events, where I can connect with clients and showcase the unique craftsmanship of Gavox.

What was your first market, and where do you see Gavox going next ?

My first market was through the Gavox webshop, where I connected directly with clients.

Later, I expanded into custom designs for military and air force squadrons, which has been an incredibly rewarding experience.

Moving forward, I hope to explore more artistic collaborations and continue designing watches that resonate with people’s unique styles and interests.

What’s one aspect of your brand people should know more about ?

Gavox is a one-person operation, and that’s something I take pride in.

From the initial design to the final delivery, I personally oversee every step of the process.

This hands-on approach allows me to ensure that each watch meets the highest standards and that every client feels valued and connected to the brand.

Are you also a watch collector ?

Yes, I am, and I believe this passion for collecting fuels my understanding of what makes a timepiece truly special to its owner.

I’ve always been drawn to the craftsmanship of Casio and Seiko watches, admiring their heritage and innovation.

I also enjoy collecting watches from fellow microbrand creators, as they bring fresh perspectives and creativity to the industry.

This passion for collecting directly influences how I design Gavox watches—

I want each piece to feel as meaningful and exciting to you as it does to me when I discover something remarkable.

Do you participate in watch fairs and events ?

Yes, and these events are some of the most rewarding experiences for me.

They allow me to meet clients like you in person, hear your stories, and share the journey behind each Gavox watch.

Whether it’s at an air show or a watch fair in Poland, Prague, Singapore, or the United States, I look forward to these opportunities to showcase my work and connect with enthusiasts face-to-face.

What are your specialized projects or upcoming initiatives ?

One exciting initiative I’m working on is collaborating with artists and brands to create limited collections.

These projects allow me to combine craftsmanship with artistic expression, offering watches that are truly one of a kind.

Whether you’re drawn to aviation, art, or adventure, these collaborations are designed to reflect diverse passions and provide something truly personal for the wearer.

How do you maintain the integrity of your collections over time ?

Timelessness is at the core of every Gavox design. That’s why all my collections, even the very first one launched in 2011, remain available.

I believe that watches shouldn’t be bound by trends but should instead offer lasting value and meaning to their owners. By ensuring consistency in quality and design,

I aim to create pieces that clients can cherish for years to come.

What feedback have you received about your watches ?

The feedback from clients has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the thoughtful design, legibility, and functionality of Gavox watches.

Some have even provided constructive suggestions, such as increasing the lume for better visibility.

I value this input deeply, as it helps me refine my designs and ensure that every watch exceeds expectations. Your thoughts and experiences are an essential part of the evolution of Gavox.

How do you approach direct communication with clients ?

Direct communication is one of the pillars of Gavox. I personally handle every inquiry, shipment, and interaction to ensure that you feel valued and heard.

This hands-on approach allows me to connect with you on a deeper level, making sure your experience is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

When you choose Gavox, you’re not just buying a watch—you’re joining a community where your voice matters.

What inspires your designs ?

Inspiration comes from a blend of passions—aviation, space exploration, marine adventures, and racing.

But above all, it’s the people who wear my watches who inspire me the most. I think about what might resonate with you, how a watch could reflect your lifestyle,

and what features would truly make it meaningful to you. Every design is created with the intent to accompany you through life’s journeys, big or small.

What role do military and air force squadrons play in your business ?

Military and air force squadrons have played a significant role in shaping Gavox’s identity.

Designing custom watches for these groups has allowed me to create pieces with a sense of purpose and pride.

These watches are tailored to reflect the identity and values of each squadron, but they also embody the same principles I bring to every design—craftsmanship, storytelling, and meaning.

Whether it’s a squadron or an individual, the goal is always to create something deeply personal.

How do you see Gavox evolving in the future ?

The future of Gavox is filled with possibilities, but the mission remains the same: to design watches that connect with people on a personal level.

I plan to expand through collaborations, limited editions, and participation in international events, ensuring that Gavox continues to inspire and innovate. As the brand grows,

my focus will always be on creating designs that resonate with the people who wear them.

Hope you guys have enjoyed this interview. You can follow Gavox Watches on the social networks :

Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

If you’re interested to buy one of them, or if you want to know more about the brand, just click HERE.

Read more about Gavox just HERE.

Jonathan Kopp