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Geneva Seal (Poinçon de Genève)

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Geneva Seal (Poinçon de Genève): (juh-NEE-vuh seel) (pwahn-SAWN duh zhuh-NEV)

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The Geneva Seal (Poinçon de Genève) is a certification of quality and craftsmanship awarded to watches that meet strict criteria for origin, finishing, and technical excellence, ensuring the highest standards in watchmaking.

What does

Geneva Seal (Poinçon de Genève)

mean?

The Geneva Seal, or Poinçon de Genève, is a prestigious certification mark that signifies the highest standard of excellence in watchmaking. Established in 1886 by the Grand Council of the Republic and Canton of Geneva, this hallmark is awarded to timepieces that meet stringent criteria in craftsmanship, origin, and quality. To qualify for the Geneva Seal, a watch must be assembled and regulated within the Canton of Geneva, ensuring its authenticity and connection to the region's rich horological heritage.

The certification process involves rigorous inspection of the movement, focusing on the precision and aesthetic quality of its components. Key requirements include the use of high-quality materials, meticulous hand-finishing techniques, and adherence to specific technical standards. These standards cover aspects such as the finishing of the movement's parts, the accuracy of the timekeeping, and the overall durability of the watch.

The Geneva Seal not only guarantees the technical excellence of a watch but also enhances its value and desirability among collectors and enthusiasts. It represents a commitment to maintaining the traditional skills and artistry that have defined Geneva's watchmaking industry for centuries, making it a symbol of prestige and superior craftsmanship in the world of horology.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Geneva Seal (Poinçon de Genève)?

The Geneva Seal (Poinçon de Genève) is a quality certification mark awarded to watch movements manufactured in the Canton of Geneva, Switzerland, that meet rigorous standards of finishing and construction quality. Established by Genevan law in 1886, it guarantees 12 specific criteria covering movement decoration, component finishing, construction quality, and functionality. It's one of the most prestigious quality marks in watchmaking.

What specific criteria must a movement meet to receive the Geneva Seal?

The 12 Geneva Seal criteria cover: beveled and polished movement edges, circular graining (cotes de Geneve) on bridges and plates, polished screw heads, beveled screw slots, polished steel parts, regulated oscillating weight, no visible dust or machining marks, and assembly to specific standards. Functional criteria include that the watch must run accurately and function correctly. The certification is inspected by the Canton of Geneva's official body.

Which watch brands produce Geneva Seal certified watches?

Patek Philippe is the most celebrated user of the Geneva Seal, prominently displaying the hallmark on all their movements. Vacheron Constantin, Roger Dubuis, and several Richemont group brands produce Geneva Seal movements. Independent watchmakers working in Geneva may also certify pieces. Notably, Rolex—despite being headquartered in Geneva—does not use the Geneva Seal, instead using their own Superlative Chronometer certification as their quality standard.

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