Patek Philippe Celebrates Production Center Progress

With the ceremonial placement of a foundation stone, Patek Philippe is well on its way towards improving the already impressive unity of its watch manufacturing operation.  On Wednesday October 1, 2008 the prestigious Genevan brand celebrated the healthy progress of a new production center which is undergoing construction at the Cret-du-Locle in the Canton of Neuchatel.   Set to eventually be joined by two additional buildings for future developments, the production center will focus on the manufacture and polishing of watch cases and related components, as well as gem-setting.  The factory will also serve to bolster the presence of Patek Philippe in the historic La-Chaux-de-Fonds region of Switzerland.  Patek Philippe first acquired the 18,000 square meter site in November 2007, with the initial construction commencing in April 2008.  

When construction is complete, Patek Philippe's Cred-du-Locle production center will unify high-end case manufacturer Calame & Cie SA, polishing specialist firm Poli-Art SA, and SHG (Sertissage Haute de Gamme) a company devoted to the setting of precious gemstones.  Calame & Cie SA and Poli-Art SA were acquired by Patek Philippe in 2001 and 2006, respectively, and the watch brand holds a majority share in SHG.  

In all, approximately 150 employees will be brought together in Patek Philippe's production facility, whose many desirable features include a corporate restaurant.  All three of the buildings will be constructed according to the Minergie Label, a Swiss standard which assures optimum comfort and the conservation of energy resources.