The short answer
A Swiss watch is one that meets Switzerland’s legal Swiss made standard. Since 2017, at least 60% of a mechanical watch’s manufacturing costs must arise in Switzerland, the movement must be Swiss, and the watch must be cased and finally inspected there.
Most of the houses Crown offers are Swiss, from Geneva and the Vallée de Joux to Schaffhausen and Biel. Their reputations were built on movements finished by hand, strict testing and designs that change slowly.
Terms such as chronometer, manufacture and Geneva Seal appear throughout lot descriptions. Each has a precise meaning, set out below.
Swiss terms you will see in lot descriptions
Swiss houses at Crown
Each house page covers its history, signature collections and what to check before you bid.
- I Patek Philippe Geneva. Calatrava, Nautilus and grand complications.
- II Audemars Piguet Le Brassus. The Royal Oak and its descendants.
- III Vacheron Constantin Geneva. Among the oldest continuously operating houses.
- IV Rolex Geneva. Submariner, Daytona, GMT-Master II, Datejust.
- V Omega Biel. Speedmaster and Seamaster.
- VI Jaeger-LeCoultre Le Sentier. The Reverso and a deep movement catalogue.
- VII IWC Schaffhausen Schaffhausen. Pilot’s watches and the Portugieser.
- VIII Longines Saint-Imier. Heritage pilot and dress watches since 1832.
- IX TAG Heuer La Chaux-de-Fonds. Monaco, Carrera and motorsport chronographs.
- X All houses The full list of 23 watch and jewellery houses.
Questions
What does Swiss made mean on a watch dial?+
It is a legal claim under Swiss law. The movement must be Swiss, the watch must be cased and finally inspected in Switzerland, and at least 60% of its manufacturing costs must arise there.
Are all luxury watches Swiss?+
No. Many are, but Germany, Japan, France and other countries also produce fine watches. Swiss houses make up most of what Crown offers.
Is a chronometer more accurate than other watches?+
A certified chronometer has passed independent accuracy testing. Many uncertified watches keep excellent time too, but certification is an objective benchmark.
Can I bid on a Swiss watch from anywhere in Australia?+
Yes. Crown’s auctions run online, so you can register and bid from any state or territory.
Related
Crown Auctions is an independent auction house and is not affiliated with the brands named on this page. Trademarks belong to their respective owners.