The Origins of JACOB&CO.: A Journey Through the Brand's History

In April 2022, JACOB&CO. JAPAN, led by CEO Kaiki Fukuda, was established, marking a significant milestone as the brand celebrates its third anniversary this year. To honor this occasion, we are excited to announce the launch of a new series titled "JACOB&CO. STORIES," which will take a deep dive into the brand's history and essence.

This series will cover 24 episodes, chronicling the brand's journey from its inception to the present day, highlighting global partnerships and showcasing the exquisite current collections. The episodes are scheduled for release on the second and fourth Monday of every month, allowing readers to regularly discover the fascinating story of JACOB&CO.

Series Overview

- Vol.1 - Vol.4: "Brand History" - Exploring the origin and growth of JACOB&CO.
- Vol.5 - Vol.6: "Partnerships" - An insight into global partnerships across various sectors.
- Vol.7 - Vol.24: "Current Collections" - Unraveling the appeal and innovation within contemporary lines.

The Story Leading to the Brand's Founding

The chairman and founder of JACOB&CO., Jacob Arabov, traces his dreams back to his childhood.

A Humble Beginning

Born in 1965 in Uzbekistan, under the former Soviet Union, Jacob Arabov grew up amidst poverty but was sustained by a hopeful spirit. His father, Nison Arabov, decided to migrate to America with his wife, four daughters, and young Jacob in search of a better future, bringing only limited possessions along with big dreams. Starting life in a foreign land was challenging, yet this move would ultimately lay the groundwork for the creation of the brand.

A Fateful Encounter at 13

Shortly after settling in America, Jacob received a life-changing gift from his father: a watch that displayed two time zones and featured a gold-plated world map. This intricate piece, containing two mechanical movements, kindled a profound curiosity and passion within the young boy, compelling him to begin an apprenticeship to become a watchmaker at an early age. He was captivated by disassembling, understanding, and reconstructing this marvel, effectively igniting his creative spirit.

Passion Forge Through Night

Due to his young age, Jacob had to lie about his age to secure a job at a local jewelry factory, earning a mere $125 per week. Despite the routine mass-produced jewelry stifling his creativity, he continued to hone his skills. By night, in a makeshift workspace at home, he poured his heart into designing and crafting jewelry, which would eventually embody the soul of JACOB&CO.

"I often repaired my mother’s and sisters’ jewelry, which naturally developed my dexterity. My ability to discern ‘beauty’ was also influenced by my photography training during the Soviet era," he reminisced.

From Desire to Reality

Fueled by his deep passion for jewelry and his unique sensibility, Jacob founded his namesake brand, JACOB&CO., in New York in 1986. It emerged as a luxury brand that remained true to its individuality while embodying both elegance and playfulness, setting itself apart from mass production. Each creation told a story, resonating deeply with the style and authenticity Jacob desired.

After establishing a solid foothold in the fine jewelry industry, Jacob’s heartfelt passion for that watch from his youth never waned. He remarked, "Without that watch, I might not have entered this world."

The Drive to Merge Innovations

The timepiece, with its dual time zones and mechanical movements, not only represented Jacob’s childhood dream but also offered him a broader perspective on life and the beauty of structure. This experience became the driving force behind his return to the world of watches—a synthesis of jewelry and horology that transformed into his distinctive philosophy.

Next Episode

Stay tuned for Vol.2 of "JACOB&CO. STORIES": The Dawn of the Brand.

About JACOB&CO.

Founded in 1986, JACOB&CO. initially specialized in high-end jewelry, quickly establishing a prestigious standing in the jewelry sector, and officially entered the watch industry in 2002. The brand captured the imagination of celebrities worldwide with its groundbreaking Five Time Zone watch. Since then, it has introduced revolutionary timepieces such as the Astronomia, Twin Turbo, and Bugatti Chiron, continually innovating within the industry. Currently, JACOB&CO. has forged partnerships with ultra-luxury car manufacturer Bugatti and football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, embodying its concept of making the impossible possible. Blending the best Swiss craftsmanship with artistic excellence from the jewelry world, JACOB&CO. continues to enchant fans globally.