Discover the history and expertise of watchmaking in Le Locle
Perched in the heart of the Swiss Jura, the town of Le Locle has been a pillar of the watchmaking industry for several centuries. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its urban planning entirely designed around watchmaking, it remains today a nerve center of fine Swiss watchmaking. Large companies, independent craftsmen and renowned engine manufacturers perpetuate exceptional know-how there. It is in this environment that Chronode naturally fits, combining tradition and innovation.
The history of watchmaking in Le Locle
The watchmaking history of Le Locle dates back to the 17th century, when Daniel Jean Richard is said to have initiated the rise of watchmaking in the region by training the first craftsmen. The city quickly specialized in the production of watches and movements, developing a unique ecosystem where each player – from assembly to finishing to component manufacturing – plays an essential role. Even today, this network organization remains a model of efficiency and precision, guaranteeing the city a central place in the global watchmaking landscape.
A unique ecosystem in the world
Le Locle is not only home to major watchmaking companies, but also to numerous specialist subcontractors and suppliers who together form an unparalleled value chain. This synergy allows brands to access the best craftsmen and technologies, thus promoting a high level of innovation and excellence. The environment of Le Locle is a dynamic ecosystem where collaborations between companies, artisans and watchmaking engineers foster major advances in the industry.
Chronode and Le Locle: A natural continuity
Founded in 2005 by Jean-François Mojon, Chronode is part of this historical continuity. Its establishment in Le Locle is no accident: it benefits from the exceptional concentration of talent and expertise present in the region. As an independent watch movement manufacturer, Chronode operates within this ecosystem, working closely with various local suppliers to design custom movements adapted to the highest standards of watch brands.
Innovation and craftsmanship at Chronode
Chronode stands out for its approach based on creative freedom and customization. Its independence allows it to accept varied and ambitious projects, ranging from highly technical complicated watches to pieces with avant-garde design. Among the most daring creations made with Chronode’s expertise are creations such as the Ethereal Twin Orbital Tourbillon by Cyrus Genève, which perfectly illustrates this desire to explore new mechanical perspectives. Innovation at Chronode is expressed on several levels:
- Mechanical innovation : development of movements integrating new complications or watchmaking architectures pushing traditional limits.
- Aesthetic innovation : development of movements designed to be both performance objects and visual works.
Conclusion
Le Locle remains an emblematic place of Swiss watchmaking, where tradition and innovation meet to shape the future of the industry. Chronode, through its independence and its constant quest for innovation, is a natural part of this dynamic. With its technical expertise and ability to push boundaries, the company continues to play a key role in the development of exceptional movements, in line with the watchmaking excellence that has characterized Le Locle for centuries.