Thirty Years of Passion, Thirty Years of Creation
1996 – 2026
DELANCE – Swiss Watches for Women
Since my childhood, I loved creating gifts for my mother, my grandmother, and my whole family. I explored many disciplines: painting, sculpture, pottery, batik, leatherwork, photography, and more. As soon as I mastered one craft, I moved on to the next—until the day destiny crossed paths with my dream: to create an iconic object full of meaning.
I hesitated to take the leap until my daughter said:
“Mom, time is passing. If you don’t do it now, when will you?”
With my experience in watchmaking, engineering, and art, I realized that while my passion is creation, my mission is to encourage women to pursue their dreams and become everything they can be.
Giselle Rufer - Histoire de Delance
I then decided to create a watch, a symbol of the Time of Women. I also wanted it to highlight women’s talent, which is why I invited Carol, a watch designer, and Muriel, a jeweler and prototypist, to join me in this venture.
I wanted the DELANCE watch to be a miniature sculpture worn on the wrist—a meaningful work of art, a masterpiece, reminiscent of cathedral times.
I researched symbols, shapes, and signs, and combined them to tell the universal story of women. At the center, a diamond representing life. To the north, a spiral representing femininity. To the south, a stone symbolizing masculinity. The infinity loop connects north to south, feminine to masculine, creating universal harmony.
I had the idea, Carol drew it, Muriel sculpted it. In 1995, the first DELANCE watch was born.
I won’t detail the financing process—it was long and discouraging. I managed on my own, investing my retirement fund and receiving support from a few friends, whom I thank warmly.
In 1996, I registered the DELANCE trademark internationally, obtained the master’s hallmark for precious metals, and founded DELANCE SA. The same year, I produced the zero series and exhibited for the first time at Baselworld, the major watchmaking fair.
I was ready to face every challenge. There were many, and I overcame them one by one. What I did not expect was the malice and criticism from some colleagues, who predicted I wouldn’t last a year. I continued without dwelling on it.
Now, in 2026, DELANCE is still here.
The brand’s unique concept of interchangeability and aesthetic and symbolic personalization remains unmatched. Since its creation, new themes have enriched the collection every year.
The DELANCE watch
To celebrate DELANCE’s 30th anniversary, we have chosen the Paloma watch, perfectly embodying our slogan:

Life – Harmony – Spirituality
For more information, I am available for interviews or conferences.
Discover the world of DELANCE at www.delance.com/en and Giselle Speaker on www.gisellerufer.com/en