Florentine Ariosto Jones was an American watchmaker born in 1841. He is best known for founding the International Watch Company (IWC) in Schaffhausen, Switzerland in 1868. Jones aimed to combine American manufacturing techniques with Swiss craftsmanship to produce high-quality timepieces. Jones's vision led to the establishment of IWC as a prominent luxury watch brand. His innovative approach and dedication to precision helped the company thrive, making it a significant player in the global watch industry. Today, IWC is recognized for its engineering excellence and iconic designs, continuing the legacy that Jones started.