Most of us at some point have heard of chronometer observatories, maybe it was mention of one in particular or a vintage watch model that won a chronometer contest. Regardless, eventually we ask ourselves…what are they observing in the first place?
The rise of observatories’ horological influence coincides with the development of the marine chronometer. They were previously focused mostly on astronomical observations, however, as marine chronometers were increasingly seen as important navigational tools, many countries set up observatories to test and refine their chronometers. Some of the most important of such observatories were the Geneva Observatory, the Neuchâtel Observatory, the Besançon Observatory, and the Kew Observatory. The testing of chronometers at the time could take almost two months in total, with standards that were much stricter than those in place today. Many watches that were certified by observatories were built with that specific purpose in mind; modified to have large balance wheels and beat slowly, they often took years to develop and were produced in small quantities. Winning an observatory contest could serve not only as recognition of a brand’s technical prowess but also as significant PR. Some manufacturers, like Girard-Perregaux, commercialized their observatory certified timepieces – a notable example being the Gyromatic.
The Neuchâtel Observatory, founded in 1858, was arguably the most prominent observatory in Europe; noted for its location in the vicinity of many notable watchmakers. Overtime, however, with the rise of alternatives such as the Fleurier Quality Foundation and the COSC certification, the popularity of chronometer observatory competitions and testing decreased. Although, the tradition of observatory contests has not completely dissipated. In 2009, the Watch Museum of Le Locle launched a new chronometry contest that turned 10 years old this year! In general, chronometer certification remains a rare and sought-after accolade, with only about 3% of Swiss watches adhering, even today.