Beyond the Label: Discover What 'Swiss Made' Really Means

"Swiss Made" is more than a label—it’s a symbol of excellence, precision, and a legacy of unmatched craftsmanship. Renowned worldwide, Swiss watches set the standard for quality and artistry. But what does it truly take for a timepiece to earn this iconic mark? In this guide, we’ll delve into the rich history, strict criteria, and enduring significance of Swiss Made, revealing why it remains the ultimate benchmark in the watchmaking world. 

History of the "Swiss-Made" Label

The origins of the "Swiss-Made" label can be traced back to the seventeenth century, when Geneva watchmakers began stamping their timepieces to certify their quality. This tradition arose to distinguish their craftsmanship amidst increasing competition. By the 1880s, faced with growing competition, particularly from American manufacturers, Swiss watchmakers recognized the need to formalize this certification.

In 1891, the Swiss Federal Council introduced legal protections for the designation "Swiss" and "Swiss-Made" through a federal law on trademarks, ensuring that these terms were reserved for watches that met specific criteria of Swiss origin. This law has evolved over time, most recently in 2017, to further protect and strengthen the reputation of Swiss watches globally.

Criteria for a "Swiss-Made" Watch

Since 2017, precise regulations have defined the criteria that a watch must meet to be labeled "Swiss-Made." These criteria are essential for preserving the quality and reputation of Swiss watches:

1. Production: At least 60% of the total manufacturing costs must be incurred in Switzerland.
2. Movement: The movement (the mechanism) must be Swiss, with at least 60% of its components, by value, being of Swiss origin.
3. Development: The technical development of the watch and its movement must be carried out in Switzerland.

These regulations ensure that a significant portion of the watch's value originates from Switzerland, maintaining the high standards of quality and reliability associated with the "Swiss-Made" label.

BA111OD: Elevating the Standards of "Swiss-Made"

At BA111OD, our commitment to Swiss watchmaking excellence goes beyond meeting the minimum "Swiss-Made" criteria. Every watch in our current collection proudly carries the "Swiss-Made" label, with many of our models exceeding these requirements. For example, select Chapter 4 Tourbillon watches are not only 100% Swiss Made but are also crafted almost entirely within the canton of Neuchâtel, where we are based. While our first two collections—now discontinued—did not meet Swiss-Made standards, they laid the groundwork for our current dedication to crafting exceptional Swiss watches that honor tradition and innovation.

A Legacy Rooted in Neuchâtel

BA111OD is proud to call Neuchâtel home, a region celebrated as one of the cradles of the Swiss watchmaking industry. Our brand is deeply intertwined with the Baillod family’s remarkable 250-year watchmaking heritage, dating back to 1775. This legacy of precision and craftsmanship inspires every timepiece we create today. By continuing to innovate while honoring our roots, BA111OD contributes to the rich tradition of Neuchâtel’s watchmaking excellence, ensuring that our watches are not only exceptional but also a testament to the region’s unparalleled horological history.

Facts and Figures About the Swiss Watch Industry

The Swiss watch industry is a cornerstone of the national economy, with impressive contributions:

1. Annual Production: Around 20-25 million watches are produced in Switzerland every year, representing a small fraction of global watch production but a majority of its value.
2. Exports: In recent years, Swiss watch exports have continued to grow. For example, in 2022, exports reached a record value of 24.8 billion CHF, showcasing the sector's strength.
3. Employment: As of the latest data, around 60,000 people are employed in the Swiss watch industry, a notable rebound from its decline in the 1970s due to the quartz crisis.
4. Number of Companies: The Swiss watchmaking sector comprises over 600 companies, including many small independent artisans and major global players.

Conclusion: Why "Swiss-Made" Matters More Than Ever

The "Swiss-Made" label is far more than a stamp on a watch—it is a mark of trust, artistry, and heritage that has stood the test of time. From its origins in the seventeenth century to its rigorous modern-day criteria, the label reflects the dedication and ingenuity of Swiss watchmakers who continue to uphold the highest standards of excellence.

BA111OD embodies these values with a deep connection to Neuchâtel, one of the cradles of the Swiss watchmaking industry. With a 250-year family legacy in horology, BA111OD proudly creates timepieces that not only carry the "Swiss-Made" label but go beyond its minimum standards. From watches crafted entirely in the canton of Neuchâtel to a commitment to preserving and innovating Swiss watchmaking traditions, BA111OD represents the very essence of what "Swiss-Made" stands for.

When you wear a Swiss-Made watch, especially one crafted in the heart of Neuchâtel, you’re not just wearing an accessory—you’re embracing a legacy of perfection that transcends generations. The "Swiss-Made" label continues to be the ultimate benchmark in watchmaking, and BA111OD is proud to uphold and elevate this tradition.

For more in-depth information, you can consult sources such as the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry (FH), Chrono24 Magazine, and The Slender Wrist (Swiss Watch Industry) (Watch.swiss) (The Slender Wrist).