Simply put, a chronometer is a particularly precise watch. Throughout history, watchmakers have utilized the services of independent testing facilities to certify that their watches are indeed chronometers.Today, the Horological Society of New York(HSNY) announces the launch of its Chronometer Certification Program, a new testing service for watchmakers and watch manufacturers that wish to have their watches certified as a chronometer by a third party. HSNY’s rigorous testing protocol exceeds the international standards outlined in ISO 3159, and reflects HSNY’s 150+ years of dedication to advancing theart and science of horology.
Testing is conducted in a range of temperatures and positions over a 15 day period. The conditions used are designed to represent extreme environments that a watch may experience during wear. Only a visual rate testing procedure is used. Traditional watch timing machines use microphones to listen to a watch as it is running and quickly give a rate. In contrast, a visual rate testing procedure takes longer to complete but gives more reliable results. Watches that pass the testing requirements are issued a physical certificate with specific test results.
“Independent chronometer testing and certificationis a valuable service for both watchmakersand watch collectors,” said Nicholas Manousos, Executive Director of HSNY. “With a certificate from HSNY, watchmakers can advertise their chronometerswith confidence, and watch collectors can be assured that their watch is indeed a chronometer. I look forward to welcoming many brands from around the world to test their watches in New York.”
The first brand to offer a HSNY Certified Chronometer for sale is Massena LAB. Launched today, the Habring 2x Massena LAB ERWIN LAB03 is a new timepiecewith a hand-wound movemententirely developed, manufactured and assembled in-housebyHabring2, complete witha bronzedial designed by William Massena and created by dialmakerand watchmaker Joshua N. Shapiro. The Habring 2x Massena LAB ERWIN LAB03 is a combinationof classical design and proportions, skilled craftsmanship and a precise movement—a testamentto the creative watchmakingprocess and the friendships that are created alongthe way.
“We are proud and honored to partner with the Horological Society of New York to offer the first timepiece to be officially certified under its new Chronometer Certification Program,” said William Massena, founder of Massena LAB. “HSNY playsa pivotal role in expanding and educating the public on the artistry and craftsmanship that is fine watchmaking. This new program continues the organization's mission of providing best-in-class resources for both watchmakers and watch collectors alike.”
HSNY’s Chronometer Certification Program is availableto all watchmakers and watchmanufacturers worldwide. Only new, cased-up mechanicalwatches with a spring balanceoscillator are eligible for testing. Watchmakers and watch brands that sell HSNY Certified Chronometers may advertise this fact, and are allowedto include a mark on the dial ormovement of their watch indicating that it is a HSNY Certified Chronometer. HSNY offers noguarantee that any watch submitted will pass the testing requirements.
