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Bahraini entrepreneur and horologist Mahmood Qannati has levelled up with two new global certifications, scaling greater heights in luxury watch-making.
The founder of multidisciplinary niche luxury French Bahraini brand Qannati Objet d’Art has earned two internationally acclaimed certifications in the field of horology – the Watch Advisor certification from the Fondation Haute Horlogerie and the Train the Trainer certification from WOSTEP (Watchmakers of Switzerland Training and Educational Programme).
Both milestones were achieved after a period of intensive training and assessment in Neuchâtel, Switzerland – the historic epicentre of fine Swiss watchmaking.
The achievement is also part of a broader personal mission to become the first Arab watchmaker of his kind in the region, and signals the launch of a new phase in the development of the horological division of Qannati Objet d’Art, celebrated for its handcrafted objets d’art that ‘fuse storytelling, sacred geometry, and ancestral craftsmanship’.
The certifications further cement Mahmood’s commitment to elevating the culture of horology and métiers d’art in the region, reinforcing the Maison’s distinctive identity at the intersection of Arab heritage, French artistry, and Swiss horological excellence.
As part of this next phase, Mahmood aims to establish educational foundations for horology and métiers d’art across the region.
He aims to start with programmes at institutions like Bahrain Polytechnic. He also hopes to develop the Qannati Lab into a regional centre for high-end watchmaking, miniature sculpture, and ancestral crafts – ensuring these rare disciplines are preserved and passed on.
Qannati Lab further aims to support the emerging watchmaking and jewellery sectors in the Arab world by training a new generation of artisans and positioning Bahrain as a regional hub of excellence.
Mahmood’s journey reflects a commitment to reviving ancient know-how, promoting the art of timekeeping in the Gulf, and solidifying Qannati Objet d’Art’s status as a brand devoted to the art of horology.
