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Manufacture

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(man-yuh-FAK-chur)

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Watchmaker designing, producing, and assembling movements and components entirely in-house, ensuring quality control and craftsmanship.

What does

Manufacture

mean?

Manufacture, in the realm of watchmaking, refers to a watch company that designs, produces, and assembles its own movements and components in-house. This term is often used to distinguish such companies from those that rely on third-party suppliers for their movements or parts. A true manufacture is involved in every stage of the watch creation process, from the initial design and engineering to the crafting of individual components and the final assembly of the timepiece. This level of vertical integration allows for greater control over the quality, precision, and innovation of the watches produced. It also enables the manufacture to develop unique movements and complications that set their timepieces apart from those of competitors. The ability to produce in-house movements is often seen as a mark of prestige and expertise within the horological community, as it requires significant technical skill, investment, and craftsmanship. Some of the most renowned watch manufactures have a long history of innovation and have contributed significantly to the advancement of watchmaking technology. These companies are celebrated for their dedication to maintaining traditional watchmaking techniques while also pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the art and science of horology.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What does manufacture mean in watchmaking?

A manufacture designs, produces, and assembles movements and most components in-house, controlling the entire production process. This contrasts with brands using third-party movements (like ETA or Sellita). True manufactures handle everything from initial design through final assembly, ensuring quality control and unique calibers.

Are manufacture movements better than ETA movements?

Not necessarily. ETA movements are proven workhorses with excellent reliability and serviceability worldwide. Manufacture movements offer exclusivity, brand identity, and often showcase finishing. Quality depends on execution—a well-regulated ETA can outperform a poorly-finished in-house movement. It's about priorities: uniqueness vs. practicality.

Which brands are true manufactures?

Examples include Rolex, Patek Philippe, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Seiko (Grand Seiko), A. Lange & Söhne, and Audemars Piguet. They design and produce movements internally. However, the term can be ambiguous—some brands modify base movements or source certain components externally while still claiming manufacture status.

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