STORIES

What Is Swiss Made? A Guide to Swiss Movement Watches

Learn what makes a Swiss Made watch and why Switzerland is renowned for luxury watchmaking.

November 2024

A Legacy of Excellence

Swiss Made is more than just a label; it signifies the pinnacle of luxury watchmaking. Renowned for their precision, craftsmanship, and reliability, Swiss Made watches have earned a place of reverence in the world of horology. In this guide, we will dive deep into what makes a Swiss Made watch, what it takes to earn this prestigious designation, and why Switzerland is globally recognized as the birthplace of the finest timepieces.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

1. What Is Swiss Made
2. What Makes A Swiss Made Watch
3. Why Swiss Movement Watches Are Valued
4. Top Luxury Swiss Automatic Watch Movements
5. Why Switzerland Is Best In Watchmaking
6. How Is Swiss Engineering Superior
7. Why Swiss Craftsmanship Means Luxury Quality
8. Swiss Movt vs. Swiss Made: What's The Difference
9. How To Care For Your Swiss Watch
10. The Future of Swiss Watchmaking
11. Tips for Choosing the Right Swiss Watch
12. Celebrate Swiss Artistry with VIEREN
13. Frequently Asked Questions

A Legacy of Excellence

Swiss Made is more than just a label; it signifies the pinnacle of luxury watchmaking. Renowned for their precision, craftsmanship, and reliability, Swiss Made watches have earned a place of reverence in the world of horology. In this guide, we will dive deep into what makes a Swiss Made watch, what it takes to earn this prestigious designation, and why Switzerland is globally recognized as the birthplace of the finest timepieces.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

1. What is Swiss Made?

Swiss Made is the gold standard for high quality craftsmanship in luxury timepieces.

Swiss Made is a symbol of excellence, representing generations of watchmaking mastery. Watches that bear the Swiss Made label undergo rigorous standards to ensure that every timepiece adheres to the highest quality and precision. A Swiss Made watch is not just about functionality; it is a work of art, built with care, skilled hands, and an enduring commitment to craftsmanship.

The Swiss Made label is reserved for timepieces that are manufactured with precision, using the finest materials, and assembled by highly skilled artisans in Switzerland. It guarantees longevity, reliability, and impeccable design, making Swiss watches the top choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

2. What Makes A Swiss Made Watch?

To bear the prestigious Swiss Made mark, a watch must meet stringent criteria. We call these “The 3 S’s of Swiss Made.” These criteria ensure that Swiss watches are crafted with the highest standards of quality, precision, and reliability.

1. Swiss Movement

The watch must contain a Swiss Made movement. The movement is the heart of the watch, and it must either be fully manufactured or assembled in Switzerland. This guarantees the accuracy and reliability that Swiss watches are known for.

2: Sixty Percent

At least 60% of the watch’s components, including the casing, bracelet, and other parts, must be manufactured in Switzerland. This high level of Swiss craftsmanship ensures that the watch not only adheres to rigorous standards but also reflects the rich traditions of Swiss horology.

3. Switzerland Inspection

After assembly, the watch undergoes a final inspection in Switzerland to ensure that it meets the Swiss watchmaking standards. This inspection guarantees that every Swiss Made watch is crafted to perfection and meets the precision expected of Swiss timepieces.

1. Swiss Movement

2: Sixty Percent

3. Switzerland Inspection

3. Why Swiss Movement Watches Are Valued

Swiss movement watches are regarded as some of the finest in the world, and there’s a good reason for that. These watches are built with an enduring legacy of precision and reliability. A Swiss movement combines traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology, ensuring the watch keeps perfect time for decades. Many Swiss movement watches become cherished heirlooms passed down from generation to generation, known for their resilience, durability, and timeless appeal.

4. Top Luxury Swiss Watch Movements

When it comes to Swiss automatic watch movements, several brands stand out for their exceptional quality and reliability. Key factors to consider when evaluating these movements include the number of jewels, power reserve duration, and water resistance. ETA watch movements, like the ETA-2671 used in VIEREN watches, set the industry standard with exceptional and reliable movements. Sellita offers compatible high-performance alternatives, and Ronda provides accessible quartz and automatic options favoured by mid-tier brands.

5. Why Is Switzerland Known For Watchmaking?

Switzerland has a long and rich history in watchmaking, dating back to the 16th century. The region of the Jura Mountains, also known as the Watch Valley, is particularly famous for its contributions to horology. The towns of La-Chaux-de-Fonds and Le Locle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, have been the breeding grounds for some of the world’s most famous watchmakers. These towns remain at the heart of the Swiss watchmaking industry, where craftsmanship and tradition continue to thrive.

6. How Is Swiss Engineering Superior?

Swiss engineering is legendary in the watchmaking world, renowned for its precision and attention to detail. Swiss engineers employ cutting-edge technology and machinery to craft the intricate components of a watch. One such technology is CNC machining, which allows for precise bevelling of stainless steel, ensuring that every component fits perfectly. Swiss engineering is also known for its stringent quality control measures, ensuring that every piece is thoroughly tested and perfected before leaving the workshop.

7. Why Swiss Craftsmanship Means Luxury Quality?

Swiss craftsmanship is at the heart of every Swiss Made watch. The process of handcrafting each piece is labor-intensive, often taking months to complete. From the delicate hand-assembly of the movement to the meticulous polishing of the case, every detail is carefully inspected by skilled artisans. The combination of traditional techniques and modern technology results in timepieces of unparalleled quality.

8. Swiss Made vs. Swiss Movt - What’s The Difference?

It’s important to distinguish between "Swiss Made" and "Swiss Movt," as the terms are often used interchangeably but have significant differences.

Swiss Made: This is the highest standard in watchmaking. It means that the watch has met all of the Swiss Made criteria, including a Swiss movement, at least 60% of the watch's components made in Switzerland, and a final inspection in Switzerland.

Swiss Movt: A watch with a "Swiss Movt" label means that the watch contains a Swiss-made movement, but it doesn’t necessarily meet the other criteria of Swiss Made. These watches can be assembled anywhere, which means that they don’t always offer the same level of precision and craftsmanship guaranteed by the Swiss Made designation.

9. How to Care for Your Swiss Made Watch

Proper care is essential to preserve the longevity and performance of your Swiss Made watch. Regular servicing, cleaning, and storing your watch safely are all crucial steps in maintaining its value and functionality. It's recommended to service your Swiss Made watch every 3-5 years to ensure it continues to perform at its best. Additionally, always store your watch in a cool, dry place, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or magnetic fields. To help you maintain the quality of your timepiece, check out our comprehensive Automatic Watch Care Guide.

10. The Future of Swiss Watchmaking

The Swiss watch industry is continuously evolving. The advent of smartwatches and changing consumer preferences have posed challenges to traditional Swiss watchmakers. However, many Swiss brands are embracing this challenge by incorporating innovative materials, eco-friendly practices, and modern designs. The commitment to sustainability is also a growing trend, with Swiss brands focusing on reducing their carbon footprint and creating timepieces that are both environmentally responsible and beautifully crafted.

11. Tips for Choosing the Right Swiss Watch

When selecting a Swiss watch, there are several important factors to consider. First, ensure that the watch features a Swiss Made movement and certification, which guarantees superior performance and precision. Next, choose a design that fits your personal style, whether it’s classic or contemporary. The materials used are also crucial—look for high-quality options such as stainless steel, sapphire crystal, and leather for durability and longevity. Lastly, make sure the watch comes with a good warranty, which will provide coverage in case of defects.

Looking for a new Swiss automatic watch? Check out our article on: 9 Expert Tips for Buying Your First Automatic Watch.

12. Celebrate Swiss Artistry with VIEREN

At VIEREN, we celebrate the artistry and precision that defines our Swiss Made timepieces. Founded by trailblazing CEO Jess Chow and award-winning designer Sunny Fong, each luxury rectangular watch exemplifies our commitment to quality, powered by exceptional ETA-2671 automatic movements that guarantee performance and reliability.

Handcrafted in La Chaux-de-Fonds, our limited edition timepieces seamlessly blend modern design and meticulous attention to detail. When you wear a VIEREN watch, you are embracing a legacy of craftsmanship while shaping the future of luxury watchmaking. Discover our today and find the perfect timepiece to showcase your unique style. exclusive collections.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the benefits of Swiss Made watches?
Swiss Made watches offer unmatched quality, precision, and durability, making them a valuable investment.

How often should I service my Swiss Made watch?
Service your Swiss Made watch every 3-5 years for optimal performance.

What does the Swiss Made label signify?
The Swiss Made label ensures the watch meets high manufacturing standards for quality and origin.

What should I know about Swiss Made craftsmanship?
Swiss Made watches are crafted with exceptional attention to detail and high-quality materials.

How can I verify if my watch is genuinely Swiss Made?
Check for the Certified Swiss Made label and confirm specifications through reputable sources.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

SUMMARY

Swiss Made watches represent the highest standards in horology, combining precision engineering, timeless craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Understanding what makes a watch Swiss Made helps you appreciate the artistry and heritage behind these remarkable timepieces. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or purchasing your first Swiss watch, the legacy of Swiss Made continues to set the benchmark for excellence in the watchmaking world.

SUMMARY

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jess Chow, Founder and CEO VIEREN

As Canada’s first female founder of a luxury watch brand, Jess is passionate about horology and dedicated to crafting Swiss Made automatic timepieces that merge artistry and precision with VIEREN.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jess Chow, Founder and CEO VIEREN

As Canada’s first female founder of a luxury watch brand, Jess is passionate about horology and dedicated to crafting Swiss Made automatic timepieces that merge artistry and precision with VIEREN.