Gruppo Ardito Watches (G.A.W.) is a handcrafted workshop based in Alessandria, Italy. The company's partners have diverse professional backgrounds, including precision mechanical engineering, design, and micromechanics applied to watchmaking. They share a passion for creating high-quality watches with superior technical and quality characteristics.
The G.A.W. watches are designed to meet the highest quality standards, with some components made directly in the workshop and others sourced from expert master craftsmen in Italy (except for the Swiss-made movement). The company manufactures its own dials in-house and has a structured assembly workshop for managing part assembly and after-sales assistance. Additionally, G.A.W. has developed in-house instruments for testing watches underwater up to 500bar, demonstrating their commitment to innovative and flexible operations.
Gruppo Ardito Watches (G.A.W.) produce an elite range of professional watches, proudly designed and made in Italy. The brand stands for strong, reliable watches that maintain their integrity and accuracy over time, even with heavy-duty use. The company's ethos is rooted in proud Italianness and a promise to deliver high-quality timepieces. The inspiration behind the brand comes from the memory of the Arditi, elite Italian army storm troopers who demonstrated remarkable strength, valor, and patriotism during World War I and II.
The Arditi were formed in 1917 as the first Assault Units in the Special Forces of the Italian Army. These brave men were selected for their courage and trained to carry out high-risk missions. They performed countless heroic deeds during the war, particularly in the Battle of the Piave. During World War II, the Arditi's feats were matched by those of similar assault units from the Royal Italian Navy. These units carried out daring missions in the Aegean Sea, North Africa, and Sicily, showcasing their skill and bravery.
The legacy of the Arditi lives on in Italy's modern-day Special Forces, who continue to embody the values of daring, heroism, and exceptional physical qualities. These multipurpose units are equipped with ultra-modern means and weapons, and are trained in all combat techniques. They can operate in hostile territories, underwater, and in other challenging environments, always putting their nation and its institutions first. The spirit of sacrifice and service that defined the Arditi remains a constant ideal, inspiring new generations of commandos and assault troops to push beyond their limits and achieve greatness.