Horological Meandering

Dear All: Switzerland is quite a fascinating biotope for all different ‘species’ of watch producers. The range covers small one-man operations to multinational companies, and the output comprises of pick-up-on-the-fly Swatches to bespoke unique pieces tha...  

Fast forward to late April: The invitation to visit DeWitt came unexpectedly and on very short notice, so I had no time to build up an expectation, and I could travel free from any preconceived opinion. And that was quite thrilling for me! In my view, fac...  

The open and light atmosphere continues with the ateliers and workshops. DeWitt is fully equipped to develop, prototype and industrialise any mechanism possible. Ideas (mostly from Mr de Witt) are entrusted to teams of engineers and watchmakers, who have ...  

Note: This part of the article is just a short introduction to the art of dial making practiced at DeWitt. I promise to post an in-depth article on this fascinating craftsmanship some time later! We watch connoisseurs tend to reduce watchmaking to movemen...  

1.) Finnisage Regardless of whether parts are produced within the premises of a company or sourced outside, it is the finishing where enthusiasts put particular emphasis on. Finishing provides not only an aesthetic pleasure; it is essentially ‘unnec...  

As you surely know, trained watchmakers are a rare commodity these days. Thus, watch manufacturers use different and sometimes quite innovative way to address the shortage and hunt for talents. Some establish their own watch schools; others attract promis...  

Magnus, Your photo report is both mouth watering and an eye popper. Kudos to the company and thanks to you for bringing your extensive report to this forum for all to share. The report is informative and educational. As a watchmaker I can attest that no a... 

your words are always important to me as you are a practitioner. I'm glad you found it a worthwhile read! Cheers, Magnus

Magnus, I know it was short notice but thank you for the introduction to DeWitt workshops to PuristS before we see them at IGOTT-2 (International Gathering of the Tribes - 2) in Las Vegas on 30 May 2011. DeWitt is joining our PuristS 10th anniversary part...  

You look so cute with your watchmaker's loupe and lab coat on! I love that DeWitt let you play watchmaker for a day. I found that this type of experience (JLC offers a similarly excellent one) really drives home the challenges of crafting fine timepieces.... 

That's an impressive report. Thank you. Vte

Never knew all this about DeWitt. - SJX

Thanks for the great look behind the scenes! And I have to say, that Purists 10th Twenty-8-Eight Tourbillon is an absolute stunner.

some of their pieces are very interesting, especially the constant force tourbillon. i like anything that uses a fusee chain or similar. i'm not sure how it works and what it does, but it looks good. thanks again Graham

Now I wish I could have done it myself. I was not at all aware of the depth of their capabilities as I only knew of some of their movements coming from Agenhor. This is certainly a company to keep an eye on. Don

was different, very different to be honest. It was more about a "living room" company for some "super-rich" people and based on some pictures from the past. Magnus, your very personal in-depth report , opened my eyes for something I didn´t expect. St... 

Nt

... your watch has been assembled by one of our very best team members, and as can be seen, he even signed his work! Dear Magnus, thank you so much for this extremely educating report series! I admit that with every year I was confronted with de Witt's bo...  

Dear Magnus, Thank you for such a comprehensive study of DeWitt. I appreciate the brand a lot more. I had no idea your level of skill in putting together a watch. I don't think I could do it. Looks too complicated for me

t...  

thank you for sharing your obsevarations! J

Nathalie Veysset is doing a great job in this company. Fx

NT

providing in-depth background and information to a lesser known brand. Very much appreciated and thoroughly enjoyed the report. Thank you Magnus.

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