What do we know about watches stamped with the Poinçon de Genève? While the Archives of the Canton of Geneva refer to the model, calibre number and other information that can be used to identify the timepiece, no details are provided on the circumstances of the purchase. There is no reference to what has become of the watches either. Where are they now? Who is wearing them? Do their current owners know that some timepieces are more than 125 years old?
It is with the aim of gathering this information and restoring the memory of the Poinçon that Timelab has decided to invite all owners of watches bearing the Poinçon de Genève to tell the story of their timepiece and join the Héritiers de l’Excellence club.
To be launched during 2014, the survey will be sent to all owners of watches stamped with the Poinçon de Genève. First they will be asked to complete some formalities on the new Poinçon de Genève site to enable Timelab to verify the authenticity of their timepiece. They will then be asked to describe the place and circumstances of the purchase. Was it in Geneva? Was it inherited or a gift? Has the watch been handed down to descendents of the original owner? How long has it been in the family? Do the current owners realise they possess a piece of priceless watchmaking heritage, as seen through the eyes of fine watch connoisseurs?
Lastly, to thank respondents for taking part, they will be invited to enter a competition. Winners will be the guests of Timelab in Geneva. They will visit a Geneva “manufacture”, attend a watchmaking class and be able to view records held by the authorities of the Canton of Geneva.
