Verga 1947
In the heart of Milan, a stone’s throw from the Madonnina gleam the windows of one of the oldest watchmakers founded in the postwar period and soon to celebrate 80 years. Since 1947.
In 2027, the milestone will be 80 years – a remarkable achievement for a family driven by a deep passion for watchmaking. This is the story of Verga 1947.
The founder was Luigi Verga, a master watchmaker who, after years of apprenticeship, decided to fulfill his dream by opening a business of his own: just 25 square meters, a single shop window on Via Mazzini, proudly bearing the Rolex name. By his side was Valerio Verga, then only seventeen, who would soon become a key figure in the continuation of the family dynasty.
In the 1950s, the shop expanded to two windows, with space upstairs for a fully equipped workshop dedicated to repairs. The 1970s and 1980s marked a period of consolidation, with three large display windows showcasing the most prestigious high-end Swiss watch brands. In 1984, the third generation joined the company: Umberto, Valerio’s 21-year-old son, who would quickly become a cornerstone of the Via Mazzini presence. In 1988, a pivotal partnership with Patek Philippe began, adding to an already exceptional portfolio that included Audemars Piguet, Cartier, Breguet, Omega, Rolex, Blancpain, and Piaget. Two years later, a second store opened on the corner of the same building: “Verga Ore Oggi.” Initially focused on pop and accessible brands such as Swatch, Citizen, and Dodo jewelry, it evolved over time and, in 2013, became a reference point for modern “second-wrist” timepieces. The name changed accordingly to “Verga Luxury Watches,” reflecting a boutique that grew increasingly refined and welcoming, designed to elevate the shopping experience.
In 2014, a new spatial concept took shape, with a complete rethinking of the layout and design of the sales area, workshop, and offices. Most recently, in 2023, alongside the renovated workshop and offices, Casa Verga was inaugurated on the first floor – a private venue for exclusive events, created for an ever more discerning clientele.