What does the words “Swiss made” represent on a watch ?
The "Swiss made" label is recognized and you may have already seen it, but do you know what lies behind this label? watches The Swiss have a good reputation worldwide thanks to their precise craftsmanship. The "Swiss Made" label doesn't necessarily mean that all the parts of a mechanical watch in question are Swiss-made. So, how do you navigate this, and more importantly, how do you know the true value of a Swiss Made timepiece? The Charlie Paris team sheds light on the subject and explains what this label really means.
The origins of the Swiss made label
A symbol of prestige, innovation, and impeccable quality, a watch bearing the "Swiss Made" label requires adherence to very specific criteria. The Swiss government has therefore implemented legislation to protect this designation and guarantee its integrity in order to prevent its misuse in the watchmaking industry. The "Swiss Made" label originated in the 17th century when the Geneva watchmakers' guild decided to affix a hallmark to its watches to certify their quality. The label became formalized at the end of the 19th century. In the 1880s, Swiss watchmakers faced competition from American manufacturers. They therefore decided to create their own certification, which they called "Swiss Made."
Swiss made watches: what they represent
The terms "Swiss made," "Swiss," and "Suisse" are governed by an ordinance (232.119) of the Swiss Federal Council. The Swiss Federal Council ordinance of August 28, 1992, establishes a precise set of specifications listing all the requirements of this prestigious label. In 2007, the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry sought to strengthen the rules pertaining to "Swiss Made." Swiss law defines first the Swiss watch and then the Swiss movement.
According to this regulation, a Swiss watch is a watch that meets the following conditions:
- Joining a Swiss movement
- Integrating a mortise and tenon joint in Switzerland
- Its final inspection is carried out by the manufacturer in Switzerland.
- At least 60% of the cost price must be generated in Switzerland
The movement must be assembled in Switzerland
- It must be inspected by the manufacturer in Switzerland.
- A minimum of 60% of the cost price must be generated in Switzerland
- To be of Swiss manufacture for at least 50% of the value of all component parts, but excluding assembly costs
Therefore, just because a watch is of Swiss origin does not automatically mean it qualifies for the "Swiss Made" certification. To achieve this, it must meet all the criteria mentioned above. If, for example, the watch is assembled in Switzerland but the majority of its components were manufactured in another country, then it cannot be labeled as such.
WATCHES WITH SWISS MADE MOVEMENT AT CHARLIE PARIS
At Charlie Paris, we are committed to offering timepieces that combine technical excellence with timeless design. That's why some of our models feature a prestigious Swiss Made movement, a guarantee of quality and watchmaking expertise.
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