In the heart of the picturesque alpine village of St. Moritz, a landmark in luxury retail has unveiled a dazzling transformation. Bucherer 1888 proudly announces the reopening of its boutique, now offering an enhanced shopping experience that seamlessly blends refined elegance with the charm of its Engadin surroundings.

A Bucherer Boutique like no other

Spanning an impressive 150 square meters, the redesigned space is an invitation to linger and explore. Its three-tiered layout lends a unique character to the boutique, combining sophistication with intimacy. The design is a tribute to the natural beauty of the Engadin region, incorporating elements such as dark wood, local stone flooring, and handcrafted natural fiber carpets. Details like Engadin stucco on the walls and traditional decorative touches create a warm yet luxurious ambiance.

A focal point of the boutique is its inviting lounge area featuring a fireplace and a small bar nestled within bronze watch displays. These thoughtful details create a space that feels as much like a refined mountain retreat as it does a premier destination for luxury goods.

A Showcase of Exceptional Brands

The boutique celebrates its heritage of fine watchmaking with an expertly curated selection of timepieces. The third tier houses a dedicated Rolex Shop-in-Shop, showcasing the brand’s unmatched craftsmanship in a setting that exudes understated elegance. Complementing Rolex are iconic brands like Tudor, IWC Schaffhausen, Breitling, and the haute horlogerie of H. Moser & Cie.

Bucherer St. Moritz also offers a unique Certified Pre-Owned collection, including Rolex-certified timepieces. Each watch is meticulously inspected and serviced by Bucherer’s experts, ensuring both quality and authenticity.

A Must-Visit Destination

Bucherer St. Moritz has redefined what a luxury boutique can be, combining contemporary design, local influences, and exceptional service. Whether you are seeking a one-of-a-kind timepiece, an unforgettable piece of jewelry, or simply a warm, elegant space to soak in the beauty of St. Moritz, this boutique delivers on all fronts.

Rediscover Bucherer St. Moritz—a destination where alpine charm meets timeless luxury.

The Scottish Highlands are a place where time seems to slow down, offering a rugged yet peaceful escape into one of Europe’s most stunning landscapes. Between the rolling hills, majestic lochs, and iconic castles, this region captures a sense of adventure that beckons explorers from all over the world. For a gentleman seeking both exploration and elegance, the Highlands also provide the perfect backdrop to showcase some truly timeless wristwatches. Here’s a look at some watches by Bucherer Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) that should be on your wrist for your next Highland adventure.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual

The Highlands demand rugged practicality, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a touch of sophistication. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 116000, with its rich white grape dial, balances the simplicity of a classic design with the refined edge Rolex is known for. This particular model has its roots in the 1920s and ‘30s, and its waterproof case combined with a self-winding movement makes it an ideal companion for a journey where you may find yourself caught in a light Scottish mist.

As you stroll through picturesque villages or explore scenic lochs, the understated elegance of the Oyster Perpetual will never go unnoticed. Its sleek form feels as natural on your wrist as the rugged peaks towering above you. And after a long day, as you unwind in a cozy inn, you can appreciate the perfection of a watch that stands as an icon of timekeeping.

Rolex Submariner Date

For a deeper connection to the wild spirit of the Highlands, look no further than the vintage Rolex Submariner Date Reference 1680 from 1978. This watch is not just about telling time - it’s a piece of history. Its tritium lume, which has mellowed into a warm cream color, mirrors the soft glow of a sunset over the Atlantic coastline.

And while this Submariner may bear a few signs of age, much like the ancient stone walls of Eilean Donan Castle, those imperfections only add to its charm. Whether you’re taking on the challenge of the West Highland Way or simply soaking in the scenery along the coast, the Submariner’s robust design will keep up with any adventure. It’s a watch built for durability and style, making it perfect for the gentleman who values both.

Omega Seamaster “Railmaster”

The original Omega Railmaster, introduced in 1957, was crafted for those who worked in close proximity to magnetic fields, but its modern iteration is designed for the man who faces the unpredictability of the elements with style. The Omega Seamaster Railmaster is not just a watch - it’s a marvel of anti-magnetic technology. With its ability to withstand magnetism up to 15,000 gauss, this watch is ideal for a day spent exploring the rugged beauty of Glen Etive. With its sturdy textile strap and brushed stainless steel case, this is a watch that feels as at home on a mist-covered ridge as it does during a quiet evening by a loch. Its subtle vintage touches, like the beige “Railmaster” inscription, evoke a sense of timelessness - just like the Highlands themselves.

Tudor Black Bay 58 18K

Gold may seem like an extravagant choice for a Highland excursion, but the Tudor Black Bay 58 18K proves that luxury and adventure can go hand in hand. Its 39mm yellow gold case exudes a sense of refined confidence, while the watch’s COSC-certified movement ensures precision. Whether you’re enjoying the serenity of the Isle of Skye or taking in the grandeur of Glencoe, the Black Bay 58 18K adds a touch of modern sophistication to your journey. This watch is a nod to traditional elegance with a twist of modernity, much like the Highlands themselves—a region steeped in history yet ever-evolving.

Breguet Classique

For those moments when the Highlands call for a more refined occasion, the Breguet Classique Reference 5177 in rose gold offers pure luxury. Its classic 38mm case and delicate central seconds hand speak to Breguet’s centuries-long commitment to elegance and craftsmanship. This watch is perfect for those quieter moments when you’re sipping whisky by the fire in a Highland lodge, enjoying the tranquil beauty of the surrounding landscape. Wearing the Breguet 5177 while touring the grounds of a stately Highland estate, you’ll feel the weight of history on your wrist, complementing the timeless beauty of the land itself.

Find the Perfect Watch for the Highlands at Bucherer CPO

Whether you’re navigating the rugged paths of the Scottish Highlands or savoring a quiet moment by a serene loch, the right watch can elevate your experience. Each of these timepieces - whether the vintage charm of the Rolex Submariner or the precision of the Omega Railmaster - carries a sense of adventure, history, and luxury.

The Highlands may be wild, but they also invite moments of reflection and elegance. The next time you find yourself exploring this breathtaking region, do so with a watch by Bucherer Certified Pre-Owned that reflects the timeless beauty of Scotland itself.

To commemorate 15 years of pioneering innovation, Armin Strom presents the Dual-Time Resonance GMT, a limited-edition timepiece that revisits the brand’s groundbreaking resonance technology. Encased in a refined 39mm white gold frame, it showcases two independent time zones with the flexibility to accommodate fractional-hour GMT deviations. With its vibrant sky-blue grenage dials, day/night indicators, and masterfully hand-finished details, the watch offers a captivating kinetic display that sets it apart from anything else in the world of horology.

The Science Behind Resonance

The resonance phenomenon – a delicate balancing act where two balance wheels housed in a single case synchronize via shared vibrations – has been a holy grail for watchmakers since 1655 due to its promise of superior timekeeping precision. Armin Strom has achieved a breakthrough with a patented clutch spring, a unique suspension system that maintains this synchronization even in the face of disruptive conditions, such as wrist movements, gravity, and temperature fluctuations. This innovation allows the balance wheels to consistently prevent the deviations in oscillation rate that would typically occur, achieving a level of resilience never before realized in a wristwatch.

Armin Strom's Dual-Time Resonance GMT is not only a feat of engineering but also a showcase of artistry. The twin dials feature a sky-blue grenage finish with black azurage chapter rings and polished baton indices, while the engraved day/night indicators add an element of refinement. For the first time, the twin balance bridge is crafted in polished steel, and the calibre is adorned with luxurious finishes, including hand-polished bevels, screws, and countersinks, along with Geneva stripes and perlage, demonstrating Armin Strom's unwavering commitment to traditional craftsmanship.

One of the standout features of the Dual-Time Resonance GMT is its innovative winding experience. Located at 6 o’clock, the three-dimensional ratchet wheel creates a mesmerizing dial-side animation that enhances the watch's dynamic character. This design offers not just functional excellence but also a visual spectacle that invites admiration with every glance, making each winding of the watch an engaging and interactive experience.

The new Dual-Time Resonance GMT honors Armin Strom's first resonance timepiece, released in 2016, while introducing a more compact, elegantly proportioned design. It pays homage to centuries of horological pursuit, from early experiments in the 17th century to its modern execution, capturing the elusive dream of achieving chronometric consistency in a wristwatch.

The Collector's Choice

With just 25 pieces available, the Dual-Time Resonance GMT is a rare masterpiece that blends historical significance with cutting-edge technology. Offered with a ten-year warranty and two luxurious strap options, this timepiece is a coveted addition for any collector who values the finest in watchmaking artistry and innovation. A true celebration of Armin Strom's legacy, it stands as a testament to their relentless pursuit of precision and craftsmanship.

MIDO's Multifort TV Big Date is not just a watch; it's a bold statement, combining hypnotic style with infallible resistance. It's the perfect everyday watch, adding a touch of sophistication and originality to your daily routine. Let's have a closer look!

Reviving Retro: MIDO's Multifort TV Big Date

Remember the first TVs? Their screens, almost square with rounded corners, are a nostalgic nod to the past. MIDO first embraced this distinctive shape in the 1970s, 1980s, and again in 2000. Now, fifty years since its initial debut, the iconic TV-shaped case is back, seamlessly blending vintage charm with contemporary design.

The Multifort TV Big Date showcases a flat, square satin-brushed bezel that frames a dial designed to catch the light beautifully. We think the horizontal brushed finish of the dial is striking, complemented by trapezoidal hour-markers at each quarter. The big date display on the two-level dial stands out, while a dot at 12 o'clock on the bezel harks back to the round hour-markers of past Multifort models.

Cutting-Edge Mechanics

Beneath its stylish exterior, the Multifort TV Big Date is powered by the Calibre 80. The transparent case back reveals the intricately decorated gears, including an oscillating weight with Côtes de Genève and the Mido logo. This model boasts an impressive 80-hour power reserve. The inclusion of a Nivachron™ balance spring enhances its resistance to magnetic fields and shocks, ensuring remarkable precision. With water resistance up to 10 bar (100 meters/330 feet), this watch is built to endure.

Modern Mastery

The Multifort TV Big Date epitomizes MIDO's expertise in watchmaking, offering a dynamic and original aesthetic. It's designed for the modern-day city dweller who values precision, robustness, and bold design. Whether you're dressing up for a special occasion or elevating your everyday look, this watch makes a powerful statement.

With the Multifort TV Big Date, MIDO has once again proven its ability to honor its rich heritage while infusing a breath of fresh air into its designs. This watch is more than just a timepiece; it's a symbol of timeless elegance and cutting-edge innovation, perfect for those who appreciate the finer details in life.

Stepping into the heart of a watch company's manufacture is akin to peering behind the curtain of a grand theater production. It's here that the true essence of craftsmanship, quality, and innovation is unveiled. Recently, we had the privilege of embarking on a tour of IWC's state-of-the-art Manufakturzentrum, and what we witnessed was nothing short of extraordinary.

A Legacy of Industrial Vision

In 1868, Florentine Ariosto Jones, a visionary from Boston, set out on a journey to Switzerland with a radical idea: fuse modern American production methods with Swiss watchmaking expertise. This visionary spirit laid the foundation for the birth of the International Watch Company (IWC) in Schaffhausen. Nestled beside the Rhine, Jones established a manufacture capable of churning out an impressive 10,000 watches annually.

Fast forward to the present day, and IWC's industrial tradition initiated by Jones reaches new heights with the inauguration of the Manufakturzentrum, perfectly timed to coincide with the brand's 150th anniversary. Erected in a remarkable 21 months, this cutting-edge facility unites the production of movement components, complete movements, and cases under a single, technologically advanced roof. Casing up and final testing, however, remain reverently within the confines of the historic building. Notably, Christoph Grainger-Herr, IWC's CEO and an accomplished architect, lent his expertise to the design, ensuring a seamless blend of luxury and precision engineering.

The IWC Manufakturzentrum: A Testament to Tradition

From the moment one approaches the 139-meter-long, 62-meter-wide structure, the Manufakturzentrum exudes an air of modernity and aesthetic allure. The monumental 2,200-square-meter glass façade captivates the eye, complemented by a soaring 9-meter-high entrance lobby, where a colossal perpetual calendar mechanism presides over the reception area. As a tribute to the luminaries who shaped IWC's legacy, portraits of key figures adorn one of the walls.

As visitors, we are immediately immersed in a world of fervent activity. Devoted craftsmen, each equipped with a magnifying glass and surrounded by cutting-edge CNC machines, pour over their workstations with meticulous care. The importance of natural light permeates the entire space, enhancing the production environment with optimal conditions. Everything is finely tuned for functionality, as the production flow unfolds seamlessly before your eyes.

A pivotal area within the Manufakturzentrum is devoted to the birth of movements. From raw materials to meticulously crafted components, the process advances with surgical precision. Digitally controlled machines sculpt the parts, which are then adorned and electroplated. Precious jewels find their homes in plates and bridges, creating the intricate inner workings of each timepiece.

The Art of Case Making

Descending into the basement, a realm of case manufacturing reveals itself. IWC's mastery of materials is on full display, with stainless steel, titanium, platinum, gold, and bronze cases all being produced in-house. Also showcased is Ceratanium, an innovative material that marries the strength of titanium with the hardness of ceramic. The expertise and attention devoted to hand-finishing the cases is nothing short of remarkable. Each surface and angle undergoes patient refinement with a polishing wheel, culminating in a level of craftsmanship rarely seen in case production departments.

A Testament to Quality and Commitment

The new IWC Manufakturzentrum is a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. It represents a significant step forward in IWC's evolution, providing a purpose-built infrastructure to accommodate the company's expansion. With room for 400 craftsmen, the Manufakturzentrum stands as a beacon of pride for every employee, underscoring that an IWC timepiece is more than a mere instrument for telling time—it's a masterpiece of precision and legacy.

As watch enthusiasts, we're always on the lookout for the next game-changing creation that will propel the industry forward. In a world of ever-expanding horological wonders, it's often the pursuit of innovation and fresh ideas that make a timepiece stand out the most. The Swiss brand Horage definitely ticks a lot of boxes in that regard: let’s have a closer look at the newly released Lensman 2!

A Watch for Photographers

Photography is one of our biggest passions here at Artworth - and the idea of combining watchmaking with photography is without a doubt very intriguing to us. The Lensman 2 by Biel/Bienne based Horage is equipped with a very unique Bezel that functions as an exposure calculator, combining the two worlds in a way that has never been done before. An impressive ISO and aperture range is offered on the bi-directional bezel for quick referencing between your shots. This allows the watch to show you the optimal values for your camera when the markings on the bezel are aligned with your current lighting conditions. Fascinating, no?

This highly innovative function reinvents the definition of a modern daily tool watch in our eyes. The watch satisfies both form and function and gives off old-school vintage vibes, while maintaining a sleek and clean overall look and feel. In addition to the unique Bezel, the watch also features a GMT 24 hour jump set. This is ideal for photographers exploring the globe, keeping track of multiple time zones.

A Look inside the Horage Lensman 2

Of course, as you would expect from a Horage timepiece, the heart of the watch doesn’t disappoint either: The in-house K2 micro-rotor is accompanied by a 24-hour GMT module that packs a strong 72 hour power reserve. This highly sophisticated movement is also properly protected: both the crown as well as the case itself are made from polished grade 5 titanium to make sure the COSC Chronometer Certified timepiece won't be damaged.

At Artworth, we love the Horage Lensman 2 for multiple reasons. It's a timepiece that visually and functionally reinvents the definition of what a true modern-day tool watch can and should be. We’re convinced that anyone with a strong passion for either photography or watchmaking will fall in love with the Lensman 2, just as we did!

To learn more about Horage, read this article about our visit at their manufacture in Biel/Bienne.

Which complication is the most useful in a dive watch? We would argue having a GMT is pretty helpful since many of us travel to exotic places to explore the colorful underwater world. Mido, the pioneer of watertight cases in the early 1930s, offers now exactly that. To celebrate the 75th anniversary of their iconic Ocean Star collection, the Swiss brand is launching a dive watch with GMT and even worldtimer function. Let's have a closer look at the Ocean Star Decompression Worldtimer!

Mido Ocean Star Decompession Worldtimer

At Artworth we love vintage inspired timepieces. And the versatile neo-vintage diver watch by Mido is right up our alley! With an eye-catching color-scheme inspired by the 1960s, the Ocean Star Skin Diver comes with a contemporary case size of 40.5mm. To highlight the vintage look, the top of the case is fitted with a box-shaped sapphire crystal that is nicely complemented by a solid screw-down stainless steel case back.

Although most people will wear the Ocean Star Decompression Worldtimer as "desk diver", it was developed for scuba diving. Equipped with a decompression scale, the watch helps divers plan their surface intervals. This was an incredibly impressive feature at the time of its predecessor’s release in the 1960s and made the Ocean Star world-famous among divers. Today, Mido has updated the watch with a Nivachron balance spring. It protects the timepiece from magnetism.

Mido - King of Waterproof

Inside the watch, the ETA-based Mido Cal. 80 GMT movement is ticking away. It offers an independently adjustable local hour hand. What is impressive about the Ocean Star Decompression Worldtimer is certainly the price. At CHF 1'270, it is one of the most affordable GMT watches out there. On top of that, the watch also comes with a second strap included that can be changed at the click of a button.

Another impressive feature that makes this watch stand out is its legendary monocoque case that has been in production since 1959. Mido’s reputation as the “King of Waterproof” watches originates from this case model and of course their Aquadura System. The honorable reputation certainly doesn’t disappoint with the Ocean Star Decompression Worldtimer either: Mido guarantees complete water resistance, even if the crown is not fully pushed in. This security is given by its innovative gasket system which uses a natural cork to seal the crown winding stem.

For us, the playful Ocean Star Decompression Worldtimer is a great vintage-inspired dive watch that will make every traveler happy. The bidirectional rotating bezel which displays the names of different cities around the globe makes for a useful watch. In addition, the decompression scale makes the watch pop and will make heads turn.

The Artworth at Bucherer event series takes us to Paris! Join us as we check-in at the marvelous InterContinental Paris LeGrand next to the Opéra and prepare for the event. Which rare certified pre-owned watches by Bucherer will we get to discover this time?

Staying at InterContinental Paris LeGrand

Checking-in at the InterContinental Paris LeGrand feels like traveling back in time. The iconic hotel was inaugurated under Napoleon III and is located in the heart of Paris. It offers guests a magnificent view of the Opera Garnier. The 5-star hotel boasts rooms and suites decorated in a Second Empire style infused with contemporary touches.

One of the highlights is the Verrière, a spacious winter garden inside the hotel. Seating is bathed in natural light under the vast metallic atrium and enhanced with giant ficus plants, white orchids and lights reminiscent of Parisian passageways. The serenity of the Verrière feels like an oasis in the midst of Paris' bustling streets. In the evening, an intimate atmosphere in the gentle glow of the large central chandelier awaits guests.

The Café de la Paix, a Parisian institution within the hotel, serves the great classics of French gastronomy. It has always been at the heart of Parisian art and art de vivre. Sitting down for a delicious French breakfast, we join an illustrious list of patrons, the spirit of Guy de Maupassant and Victor Hugo or the memory of Ernest Hemingway.

Exploring Paris

The central location of InterContinental Paris LeGrand is ideal to check out some famous sights by foot. For example the iconic Galeries Lafayette with their incredible terrace that can be visited for free.

From here, more sights like the Opéra or the Palais Royal are just minutes away by foot. The latter is one of our favorite places in the city. We love to grad a flat white at Kitsuné and settle down on a bench inside the Palais Royal Garden and read the newspaper.

The Louvre is only a stone throw away from here. While the exhibitions here attract large crowds, we usually enjoy coming here simply for the architecture. Historic buildings, restful gardens and modern elements make for a great combination!

When needing a break, where better to go than one of the many beautiful bistros? There are tons of classy corner cafés that can be discovered. We usually like to sit outside and watch the busy city life unfold before us while enjoying a coffee or glass of champagne.

Artworth at Bucherer Paris

The Swiss watch and fine jewellery experts from Bucherer have set up a very nice boutique in Paris. It is actually situated inside the same iconic building as the InterContinental Paris LeGrand on 12, Boulevard des Capucines.

Not too long ago, a Bucherer Gallery was opened inside the boutique. This marvelous space is dedicated to certified pre-own watches. These are timepieces that Bucherer acquires, services and offers again to its clients - with a two year warranty.

The Artworth at Bucherer event takes place inside this beautiful Gallery. Our events are always a great opportunity to discover rare and highly sought after timepieces. One example is this Rolex Cosmograph Daytona. With its 40 mm rose gold case, this reference 116505 comes equipped with the automatic caliber 4130.

Another exceptional piece displayed at the event was an Omega Speedmaster Professional "Silver Snoopy Award". Limited to only 5'441 numbered pieces, this watch was launched to commemorate the Apollo XIII mission. On the second sub register, the famous "Eyes on the Stars" was added. It can also be found on the case back.

But why is there a Snoopy on a Speedy? Well, at the time of the Apollo lunar program he was a very popular character and was liked by the Apollo 10 crew. Their lunar module was even named after him. Snoopy was therefore chosen as the watchdog for NASA's prestigious manned flight awareness award.
The "Silver Snoopy" is awarded to individuals and companies for outstanding efforts that contribute to the success of human space flight missions. Omega received its Snoopy Award on 5 October 1970 in recognition of the crucial role that its Speedmaster chronograph played on the Apollo 13 mission.

A heartfelt Merci goes out to everyone who joined our first event in France and discovered fine watches, exquisite fabrics by Dormeuil and enjoyed delicious champagne by Laurent-Perrier. We hope to be back soon!

To learn more about the Artworth at Bucherer event series, read this article about our event in Geneva.

Join us on an exciting tour through the mountains of Neuchâtel in the Jura & Three-Lakes region in northwestern Switzerland. Here, we can trace back the origins of Swiss watchmaking for centuries. Let's start in La Chaux-de-Fonds!

Visiting the Cradle of Watchmaking

Alongside Geneva and Lausanne, La Chaux-de-Fonds is one of the largest cities located in the Romandie, the French-speaking part of Switzerland. For many, this might be somewhat surprising. However, the town has a rich history, dating back to 1656. From there on, its growth and prosperity are mainly correlated with the success of Switzerland's watchmaking industry. Situated within an area known as the Watch Valley, La Chaux-de-Fonds has become the epicenter of fine watchmaking.

Consequently, the city is the birthplace of some of the most famous Swiss watch brands. Among them TAG Heuer, Girard-Perregaux, Corum, Eberhard & Co. and Omega. In 1908, the first location of the watch brand Rolex was also registered in La Chaux-de-Fonds. Even today, manufacturers of world-famous brands are still based in La Chaux-de-Fonds. Here, brands like Cartier, TAG Heuer, Jaquet Droz, Greubel Forsey, Patek Philippe, Schwarz Etienne, Ulysse Nardin or Breitling Chronometrie develop and manufacture complicated Swiss timepieces.

After a delicious lunch at the Ferme des Brandta converted Neuchâtel farmhouse, we meet Rudolf Schläpfer. He lived in La Chaux-de-Fonds for more than 40 years and has studied the history of the town and watchmaking in great depth. We are happy to join him on a tour to visit the former Spillmann watchmaking atelier. This former residence, renovated in the early 20th century, was used as a factory and residence. We're impressed by The Salon Bleu adjoining the workshop. It is decorated with magnificent floral motifs, a superb example of the local "Sapin" (Pine Tree) Art Nouveau style.

Rudolf Schläpfer tells us that even Karl Marx mentions La Chaux-de-Fonds in his books, referring to it as one big manufactory of watches. Around 1900, about 50% of the world's watches were produced in the city of La Chaux-de-Fonds. Here, the concept of network production was pioneered, which proved much more efficient.

Unwinding at the Grand Hôtel Les Endroits

After an eventful day we're happy to check in at the Grand Hotel Les Endroits. Here, on 1,111 meters above sea level, we enjoy a cigar and a fine Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The family-owned and run hotel turns out to be the perfect fit for us. After a relaxing time in the beautifully renovated spa of the hotel, we enjoy an excellent dinner with a wide variety of local and seasonal dishes.

We then look forward to a night in our wonderfully exclusive spa suite. On a lavish 82m² space, luxury awaits us. There is a private spa inside the magnificent suite featuring a whirlpool, sauna and steambath. The elegant bedroom has access to a nice balcony or terrace, while the large living room has a home theater, working space, dining table and even a kitchenette.

Inside the Musée de l'horlogerie in Le Locle

The next morning, we're heading to Le Locle where we visit the Musée de l'horlogerie. It is the perfect place to deepen our knowledge of watchmaking and its exciting history. Today, the museum is located inside a beautiful estate on a hill overlooking the town. However, that wasn't always the case. In fact, the museum had to move several times in its rich history dating back to 1868. Back then, the Watchmaking School of Le Locle was opened. For pedagogical reasons, the watch collections of the existing Museum of Le Locle were transferred to the new school. Subsequently, the watch museum was subject to the relocations of the school. After a period of rapid growth in 1902, the museum itself fell into neglect. At the beginning of WWII, its collections were boxed and stored away as a precautionary measure. At the end of the war, a lack of space made it impossible to house the works in a new location.

In 1951, a small group of enthusiasts luckily decided to revive the museum. However, they faced difficulties finding an appropriate building to exhibit the existing collections. Amazingly, they managed to purchase the Château des Monts. In this magnificent estate, the Musée de l'horlogerie could undergo a rebirth by opening its doors on 23 May 1959.

Zenith Watch Manufacture & Chronometry Workshop

Learning about the history of mechanical watchmaking makes us want to get a glimpse behind the scenes. Luckily, Zenith has recently partnered with the Neuchâtel Tourism Office to create an unforgettable watchmaking experience. Besides an immersive 360° experience about the inner workings of a fully-fledged watchmaking manufacture, visitors can discover crucial skills of artisans as well as different manufacturing processes. Among them are designing movements, component manufacturing and assembly of the final watch.

Now it's even possible to step into the shoes of a watchmaker! At the Zenith watchmaking workshopAfter a brief introduction, a passionate master watchmaker guides us through the regulation steps. Next, we even get to disassemble and reassemble the core piece of the watch. Using the watchmaker's tools to work on the balance spring is both challenging and fascinating!

Zenith's history dates back to 1865 when Georges Favre-Jacot founded the company in Le Locle. He invented the concept of "in-house movements," believing that only through control of the entire watchmaking process, perfection could be achieved. Today, Zenith is one of the oldest continuously operating watchmakers. Their manufacture comprises of 18 different buildings which have never changed since the company was founded. When setting up the premises, the idea was to bring together all the skills and crafts from the whole valley in one small space where one brand would produce the best watch.

El Primero: An iconic chronograph

One can't talk about Zenith without mentioning the iconic El Primero movement. At their manufacture, visitors can learn about the past, present, and future of the outstanding caliber, with rare watches from the archives on display for all to admire. As cheaper foreign quartz watches were taking a toll on traditional watchmaking, Zenith revolutionized mechanical chronographs in 1969 with the unveiling of the El Primero, the world's first automatic, integrated high-frequency chronograph caliber. This was the result of intensive research and development by the manufacture. Zenith envisioned a modern production method using the latest generation tools. Their designers translated the modernity of the caliber into unprecedented designs.

When Zenith's management decided to cease the production of the El Primero in 1975, watchmaker Charles Vermot took it upon himself to secretly protect the El Primero for future generations by gathering all the technical plans and tools necessary to produce the movement and hiding them in a walled-off section of the manufacture's attic. His heroic act became a cornerstone in the El Primero's enduring legacy. His foresight proved very valuable because demand for Swiss mechanical watches returned by the 1980s. Several watch brands reached out to Zenith asking for El Primero movements to use in their own watches. One popular example is Rolex. Their massive order eventually convinced Zenith to relaunch the unrivalled chronograph into production. Subsequently, the renewed surge in demand inspired Zenith to create its own lines of classical and sporty watches. El Primero chronographs.

Staying at the Hotel Beau-Rivage in Neuchâtel

After two days in the mountainous Jura region, we're happy to arrive at the picturesque Lake Neuchâtel. A stone's throw from the historic town center of Neuchâtel we unwind at the Hotel Beau-Rivage. The Relais & Châteaux member also houses the O'terroirs restaurant. Offering views of the lake and the Alps, the restaurant offers a range of dishes that blend tradition with modernity.

Assembling our own Timepiece

The next morning, the highlight of our entire experience is awaiting. We are putting together our very own timepiece. Not far from the Hotel Beau-Rivage, we meet Giuseppe Picchi. The experienced watchmaker shares his knowledge with us as we assemble our own watch. For us watch enthusiasts, this is a dream come true. Thanks to Giuseppe Picchi we deepened our knowledge about mechanical watches. A day to remember!

Visiting Auvernier and its Wall Clock Specialists

After a morning of hard work, we enjoy some delicious local fish dishes at the restaurant "Brasserie du Poisson in Auvernier" before heading to our last visit. The clock workshop "Au Carillon d'Or"is located at the center of the picturesque town of Auvernier. Here, we dive into a long-forgotten world. A great number of ancient clocks of various origins can be admired. The continuous ticktack surrounding is us hypnotizing. It is in this setting that we meet Thierry Amstutz. Besides repairing and creating clocks with automatons and music boxes, he is also technician-demonstrator of the Jaquet-Droz automatons at the Museum of Art and History in Neuchâtel. With over 40 years of experience there is practically no wall clock he cannot repair. Even if sometimes some pieces need to be manufactured from scratch again because replacements are no longer available. We're happy to hear that his eldest son Grégory has joined the company in December 2005. Together with his brother David he will run the family business going forward.

And so, our watchmaking journey is coming to an end. If you want to embark on a similar journey, visit the website of Jura Trois Lacs and discover all available watchmaking experiences.

Did you know that Carl F. Bucherer is one of Switzerland's leading watch manufacturers? The brand is developing outstanding mechanical movements and watches in its own manufacture in Lengnau, Switzerland. Every timepiece that leaves the Carl F. Bucherer workshop is a miniature work of art. Let us show you why!

Inside the Carl F. Bucherer Manufacture

The history and development of the Lucerne-based watch brand is closely linked to the person of Carl Friedrich Bucherer. He was a visionary who created timepieces that moved with the times. Quite literally. He always aimed to combine extravagance and aesthetic appeal in extraordinary ways. In 1888, Carl Friedrich Bucherer opened a jewelry and watch store in Lucerne. Thereafter, his name rapidly became a synonym for quality and originality. His two sons followed in his footsteps: one became a watchmaker while the other trained as a goldsmith. Today, the combination of these two skills is still reflected in the Carl F. Bucherer timepieces.

Carl F. Bucherer's recent history is shaped by the launch of the in-house manufactured CFB A1000 movement in 2008. It is equipped with a unique peripheral rotor. Soon after the launch of this revolutionary movement, the brand became a member of the illustrious Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie.

The groundbreaking movement and its predecessors are the center of attention at the Carl F. Bucherer manufacture in Lengnau, a small watchmaking town situated between Geneva and Zurich. Here, the 4 in-house movements are manufactured by skilled artisans.

The Peripheral Technology by Carl F. Bucherer

Movements using the peripheral technology feature a special winding mass. It's a peripherally-mounted annular segment, swinging bidirectionally around the movement. It replaces the centrally-mounted oscillating weight, which usually rotates over the movement. While the technology allows for thinner watches, it also offers an unobstructed view of the beautifully finished movement. This is very attractive to watch enthusiasts and aficionados like us.

While at the manufacture, we get to see how the Manero Peripheral BigDate is assembled. A very delicate task that involves many different parts and requires a steady hand.

Carl F. Bucherer Manero Peripheral BigDate

The Manero Peripheral BigDate is an outstanding timepiece that perfectly blends design, material, and technology. Its 42mm stainless steel case houses the automatic CFB A2011 movement. It offers a power reserve of 55 hours and is water-resistant to 3 bar (30 m). At CHF 8'300, you get a whole lot of engineering, craftsmanship, and design for your money.

The Manero Peripheral BigDate has been interpreted in two distinct versions. One has a light blue dial with a contrasting small-seconds subdial in beige, followed by a big date and day-of-the-week aperture in the same color.

The other has been crafted with a dark gray dial with a contrasting olive-green small-seconds subdial and power reserve indication, followed by a big date and day-of-the-week aperture in the same color. Each dial option is presented on either a textile strap matching the subdial or on a robust stainless steel bracelet. Which one do you prefer?

To learn more about Carl F. Bucherer, read this article about their stunning Heritage BiCompax Annual Hometown Editions.