Technicum La Chaux-De-Fonds Valjoux 88

The watchmaking school of La Chaux-de-Fonds, also known as the Technicum Neuchâtelois, is a prestigious institution located in the canton of Neuchâtel, Switzerland. Founded in the 19th century, this school has trained many renowned watchmakers thanks to its rigorous education and state-of-the-art facilities. Among its famous alumni are Georges Favre-Jacot, founder of the Zenith brand, and Louis Moinet, inventor of the chronograph. Their contributions to the watchmaking industry have been immense, and both benefited from the excellence of the education provided by this school.

In the 1960s, the Technicum Neuchâtelois was particularly recognized for its master projects, where each student had to create an exceptional watch demonstrating their skill and precision.

One of the remarkable pieces produced by students of that era is a steel wristwatch made by J.F Billard, a watchmaker at the end of his studies at the Technicum de La Chaux-de-Fonds. This watch, a true collector's rarity, attests to the high level of competence and attention to detail instilled by the school.

The watch features a well-preserved case measuring 36 mm in diameter. The silvered dial is adorned with applied gold indices and Arabic numerals at 12 o'clock, bearing the signature "Technicum La Chaux-De-Fonds". The movement is a Valjoux 88 chronograph with triple date and moon phases, renowned for its finesse and precision, signed by the student.

This watch is distinguished by its beveled and polished edges of the modular mechanism, as well as its finely polished steel parts. The movement is decorated with Geneva stripes, with a polished escapement and the student's signature engraved, attesting to the personalization and care brought to this unique creation.

In summary, this watch embodies the excellence of watchmaking education at La Chaux-de-Fonds in the 1960s, illustrating the talent and meticulousness of the students of that era. It represents not only a technical feat but also a collectible item of rare beauty and undeniable historical value.