Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry

The Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry (FH, Fédération de l'industrie Horlogère suisse) is the Swiss watch industry's leading trade association.

History

It was created in the 1930s as part of the joint efforts to re-organise the Swiss watch industry in order to survive the Great Depression and any future downturn. It has always been headquartered in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland. Most Swiss watch companies are members.

Organisation

FH is a private, non-profit trade association, with over 500 members representing more than 90% of all Swiss watch manufacturers (finished products, watch movements, components, etc.).

Goals

The Federation's goals are:

• "To contribute to the development of the Swiss watch industry.
• To establish a permanent link between its members to promote their joint interests.
• To represent the Swiss watch industry in dealing with the Swiss, foreign and international authorities and economic organisations.
• To protect the interests of its members in the drafting of national and foreign legislation, as well as during international negotiations to defend its members' interests by means of legal proceedings."

Affiliated offices

Aside from offices in Switzerland, it maintains permanent offices in Hong Kong and Japan.

"Swiss made" label

The Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry launched a proposal regarding the "Swiss made" label. The main reason is that some companies that manufacture fine watches do not enjoy the quality of some timepieces that have the "Swiss made" label.

Jean-Daniel Pasche, who is currently the chairman of FH, said that the reform project looks forward to improve the way fine watches are evaluated.

See also

• WOSTEP, Watchmakers of Switzerland Training and Educational Program, professional qualification

External links

• Official website including member lists and industry information