Switzerland has long been synonymous with fine watchmaking, dating back to the 16th century when Swiss craftsmen began producing intricate timepieces that were coveted across Europe. Over the centuries, Swiss watchmakers honed their skills, perfecting the art of precision engineering and pushing the boundaries of innovation. Today, Swiss watches are celebrated for their quality, reliability, and timeless elegance, earning them a place of honor among collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London, Rolex is a name synonymous with luxury, prestige, and precision. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, Rolex has a storied history of innovation, having introduced the world's first waterproof wristwatch, the Oyster, in 1926. Since then, Rolex has continued to push the boundaries of watchmaking, producing iconic timepieces such as the Submariner, Daytona, and Datejust. Renowned for their durability and accuracy, Rolex watches are treasured as symbols of achievement and success.
Rolex's commitment to excellence extends beyond its technical prowess; the brand has also made significant contributions to exploration and adventure. Like Jacques Piccard's journey to the bottom of the Mariana Trench, Rolex timepieces have accompanied pioneers and adventurers on some of the most daring expeditions in human history. This spirit of exploration and innovation continues to drive Rolex forward, ensuring its place as one of the world's most prestigious watch brands.
Established in 1848 by Louis Brandt in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Omega has a rich heritage of innovation and excellence. From the first minute-repeating wristwatch in 1892 to the official timekeeping equipment for the Olympic Games since 1932, Omega has cemented its reputation as a pioneer in the field of horology. Based in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland, Omega continues to create iconic timepieces such as the Speedmaster, Seamaster, and Constellation, cherished by collectors and astronauts alike.
Omega's association with space exploration is legendary, earning it the nickname "The Moonwatch" for its role in the Apollo 11 mission. In 1969, Buzz Aldrin wore an Omega Speedmaster Professional when he stepped onto the lunar surface, making it the first watch worn on the moon. This historic moment solidified Omega's reputation for precision and reliability in the most extreme conditions imaginable, cementing its status as a symbol of human ingenuity and exploration.
Founded in 1860 by Edouard Heuer in St-Imier, Switzerland, TAG Heuer has been at the forefront of Swiss watchmaking innovation for over a century. Renowned for its sporty designs and precision timekeeping, TAG Heuer has a long history of collaboration with athletes and racing teams, including Formula 1 and the Olympics. Based in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, TAG Heuer continues to push the boundaries of innovation with groundbreaking timepieces such as the Carrera, Monaco, and Aquaracer.
TAG Heuer's commitment to precision and performance is exemplified by its association with motorsports. From the dashboard chronographs of the early 20th century to the high-tech chronographs worn by today's racing drivers, TAG Heuer has been a constant presence in the world of motorsport timekeeping. Its partnership with Formula 1 and the Monaco Grand Prix, in particular, has solidified its reputation as a brand that combines cutting-edge technology with timeless style.
Established in 1888 by Adolf and Alfred Kurth in Grenchen, Switzerland, Certina has earned a reputation for producing high-quality, robust timepieces designed for adventurers and sports enthusiasts. Known for its association with motorsports and diving, Certina watches are built to withstand the rigors of extreme environments while maintaining precision and reliability. Based in Le Locle, Switzerland, Certina continues to uphold its tradition of excellence with its DS (Double Security) concept and innovative timekeeping technologies.
Certina's commitment to durability and performance has made it a favorite among athletes and adventurers around the world. From the depths of the ocean to the heights of the Himalayas, Certina watches have accompanied explorers and athletes on some of the most challenging journeys in human history. With features such as water resistance, shock resistance, and anti-magnetic properties, Certina timepieces are designed to excel in even the most demanding conditions, making them the perfect companion for those who dare to push the limits of human endurance.
Founded in 1832 by Auguste Agassiz in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, Longines is one of the oldest Swiss watchmaking companies still in operation. Renowned for its elegance, precision, and heritage, Longines has a storied history of innovation, having produced groundbreaking timepieces such as the first chronograph wristwatch in 1913. Based in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, Longines continues to create classic and timeless watches that combine tradition with modernity, earning it a place of honor in the world of haute horlogerie.
Longines' commitment to elegance and sophistication has made it a favorite among discerning collectors and watch enthusiasts. With its timeless designs, impeccable craftsmanship, and innovative technology, Longines watches exude an air of refinement and luxury that is unmatched in the world of horology. From the iconic DolceVita to the classic Master Collection, Longines timepieces are cherished for their beauty, precision, and enduring appeal.
Swiss watches are more than just timepieces; they are symbols of craftsmanship, heritage, and excellence. From Rolex's timeless elegance to Omega's pioneering spirit, TAG Heuer's sporty sophistication to Certina's rugged durability, and Longines' classic elegance, each Swiss watch brand embodies the finest traditions of horology. With a legacy that spans centuries and a commitment to innovation and precision, Swiss watches continue to captivate the world with their beauty, quality, and enduring appeal. It is this dedication to excellence that has made Swiss watches famous the world over, and ensures that they will continue to be cherished for generations to come.
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This week we asked on our Facebook Page the following: Do you still inform yourselves about what is happening in Switzerland? 🇨🇭
If yes, how do you do it? Do you watch Swiss TV with a VPN? Do you read Swiss newspapers online? 📺
Thank you for all the comments. You can read them all below. 20 Minuten and Blick seems to be an easy way to stay informed about Switzerland for free according to you. Also, Radio Pilatus from Lucerne has still Swiss fans abroad. 😅
Interestingly almost nobody mentions the Swiss TV station SRF. As we have heard it is still possible to watch it through some VPNs. If you are interested in how VPNs work, please let us know and we can write something about it.
Below you can find most of the comments:
Joerg George Rosset
I follow daily what is happening in Switzerland. Mainly over Blick online and Swiss TV.
Irene Artho
Yes.
I usually listen to radio during work. Once a week that radio station is Radio Pilatus, the rest of the days it's a local (UK) station.
Kittiya Biondi
I read newspaper online
Rosina Wirz
20 minutes app on my iPhone
Ursula Cohen
Online papers! Swissinfo.....
Andrea Wanner
I read 20 minutes on my phone
Markus Hartmann
emailed Swiss news, listen to Radio Pilatus and other stations
Pedro Minder
I read every day at least 1 hour CH newspapers. Previously, my favorite newspaper was 20Min. but since they have changed something in their structure and therefore that page often blocks me, I have switched to Blick.
Hanna Kuenzle
Barely ever, to be honest.
This week we asked on our Facebook Page the following: How often do you come back to Switzerland and when was the last time you were here? 🇨🇭
We have received so many comments. Thank you very much! Some of you come back to Switzerland once a year (or even more!) while others haven’t been back in 25 years. Below you can find most of the comments:
Marie-Lyse Kanis
leave Switzerland in 2005 and never came back... miss it anyway...
Susi Beattie
I don’t go back often enough…last time was 7 years ago…
Serena Bonomi
I go back to Switzerland about once a year, last time it was on May 16th, as a surprise for my mom's 60th birthday!
Pedro Minder
i have been living in Medellín for 18 years and i fly to Switzerland once a year. in the past it was 2 times a year. when i fly home, i love to drive through the alps, visit tourist destinations i have never seen before. etc. I always stay with a brother.
Jngrid Seath
Emigrated in 2003. Would move back in a flash if my husband would agree. Coming home around twice a year (although this year it will be 3 times, have to make up the lost visits during Covid)
Irene Artho
Usually once or twice a year but had a break between March 2020 and June 2022 (thanks to you know what.. ). Last visit was June 2022, going again in Dec.
Maggie Murphy
Arrived in us in 1979, went back in 1997 and haven’t returned since
Markus P. Hagmann
About once a year. Last visit: this past June.
christineberni
So far every 2-3 years... would love to come more often but since we're constrained by school vacation times and want to occasionally gonoyher places too, it's difficult!
inesazimmer
About 1/year… and this summer 🇨🇭
When was your last time in Switzerland and how often do you visit? Please let us know. 😄
This week we asked on our Facebook Page the following: Where do you live now? And how many years ago did you leave Switzerland for your adventure abroad? 🇨🇭😄
Thank you for all the answers! We can’t list all of them here. But you can find them on our Facebook Page here.
Here are some of your messages:
Do you want to share with us a bit about your history? Please let us know, we would love to introduce you in our next week’s newsletter. 😄
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Alps, Switzerland has long been a land of inspiration for artists. Its pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a spirit of innovation have given rise to a vibrant artistic scene. From sculptors to filmmakers, painters to multimedia visionaries, Swiss artists have made their indelible mark on the global art stage.
In this exploration of Swiss artistry, we embark on a journey through time and creativity to discover five illustrious Swiss artists who have left an enduring legacy in their respective fields. From the iconic sculptures of Alberto Giacometti to the groundbreaking cinema of Jean-Luc Godard, these artists exemplify the diversity and depth of Switzerland's artistic contributions to the world.
But Swiss art is more than just the sum of its famous names. It's a reflection of a nation's complex history, its shifting cultural landscapes, and its ability to seamlessly blend tradition with innovation. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of Swiss art, where the Alps meet avant-garde, and tradition meets transformation.
These artists have made significant contributions to the world of art and have left a lasting legacy both in Switzerland and on the global stage. Do you know all of them? 😀