FREE DELIVERY (Excl. Sale Items)

DIAMOND SPECIALISTS

0% APR FINANCE* (T&Cs apply)

Celebrating the History of Swiss Watches

The History of Swiss Watches on National Watch Day

One of the most timeless fashion statements, Swiss watches are imbued in personal attachment whether a sentimental family heirloom, honouring a momentous milestone, or even a favourite accessory to last the wearer a lifetime.
 
As your local Bedford watch retailer, Baker Brothers Diamonds stocks some of the world’s renowned watch brands, recognising the craftmanship of these unique accessories.
 
When browsing our extensive watch collection, you’ll be enchanted by our range of Swiss watches. These include the prestigious likes of Rolex, TUDOR, TAG Heuer, RADO and Longines.
 
Allow Baker Brothers to introduce you to the heritage of these watches and what makes them so irresistible.

What are they key dates in the timeline of watchmaking?
 
The early beginnings of Swiss Horology stem from the French migrant farmers who brought all of their watchmaking skills in their move to Switzerland. Ultimately sowing the seeds of what would then become the Swiss watch revolution we commemorate today.
 
Early watches or ‘clocks’ were originally over 3 inches long, differing to the norm today. Considering their rarity and expense, these clocks were reserved for nobility at the time. In 1868, it was Swiss brand Patek Phillippe who subsequently designed the first ever wristwatch for Countess Koscowicz of Hungary.
 
In the next century, watchmaking came into its own through increasing developments and eventual mass production. Whether it was the Rolex Oyster bringing out the first waterproof and dustproof wristwatch in 1926, to the Centre Electronique Horolger in Neuchatel developing the world’s first quartz wristwatch in 1967.
 
In the late 1970s the electronic watch started to emerge and now accounts for 90% of all watches produced in Switzerland. For over four hundred years now, Switzerland has managed to stay at the forefront of watch production, leading the way in technological advancements and adapting with everchanging times.

Why should you choose a Swiss watch and what is the significance?
 
There is a reason why a Swiss watch proudly displays the emblem of ‘Swiss-made’ on its dial. It represents meeting the highest of criteria and the strictest of regulations.
 
So much so, that new “Swissness Laws” came into fruition back in 2017. This subsequently means:

  • The technical development of a watch has to take place in Switzerland
  • The watch MUST have Swiss movement
  • Movement has to be cased up within Switzerland
  • At least 60% of manufacturing costs are to be generated in Switzerland 
  • Final inspections must take place in Switzerland 

If these categories are not achieved, a watch cannot be considered to be Swiss made.

Celebrating Swiss Design with our Top Product Picks

 
There are several design innovations that are clear signifiers of a Swiss watch. These include trendsetting, honouring the past, endurance and lasting, as well as gender-neutral styles.
 
Trendsetting
 
Looking for a Swiss watch that sets you apart? Enjoy the minimalism of the Rado Centrix Collection Rose PVD Watch which is crafted from rose PVD coloured stainless steel and black high-tech ceramic.
 
For a definitive watch face like no other, consider the TAG Heuer Monaco Calibre Heuer 02 Blue Dial Watch. Part of the esteemed Monaco Collection, this stylish standout features a striking square blue dial and its case houses the in-house Heuer 02 automatic movement with a stunning sapphire crystal.

TAG Heuer Heritage Autavia Calibre Heuer 02 - 42mm
TAG Heuer Heritage Autavia Calibre Heuer 02 - 42mm

Honouring the Past
 

 
A vintage watch never goes out of style. If you’re looking for a watch that echoes the evocative heritage of watchmaking’s past, choose the TAG Heuer Heritage Autavia Calibre Heuer 02. This watch is on a brown camel strap, offering a rustic feel that will complement many a look.
 
For ladies, Longines offers Ladies La Grand Classique. Featuring a crisp white dial, the 24mm rose PVD case houses a quartz movement with a sapphire crystal. 
 
Endurance and Lasting
 
For a watch that will last, you want reassurance that it is made from the highest calibre of materials. The TUDOR Black Bay Bronze Slate Dial Watch benefits from high performance aluminium bronze alloy, offers an imposing bronze case and houses a self-winding mechanical movement. Guaranteed to be a partner for life.

Gender Neutral
 
Unisex designs offer exciting potential for watchmaking’s future. They offer freedom and even the ability to share a piece with a partner.
 

If this appeals, the TUDOR Black Bay Collection Black Dial Watch makes for an excellent choice. It borrows the characteristic angular hands, known as snowflake, from the watches delivered to the French National Navy in the 1970s. In stunning steel, this watch is universally beloved.

 
To speak to us about Swiss Watches, speak to your local watch specialists at Baker Brothers Diamonds on 01234 352 343.

Diamond House 11-13, St. Peters Street, Bedford MK40 2PN

Tel: 01234 630 821

Monday - Saturday 9.15am - 5.15pm

Payment Options include V12 finance, PayPal, Mastercard, Maestro, Visa, Visa Debit and Klarna
Watches & Wonders
My Account
Rolex - Explore Our Range
Rolex - Our Team
Rolex - Our History
Rolex - Servicing Your Rolex
Rolex - Rolex Watchmaking
Rolex - New Watches 2023
Rolex - Rolex Collection - 1908
Rolex - Rolex Collection - AIR-KING
Rolex - Rolex Collection - COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA
Rolex - Rolex Collection - DATEJUST
Rolex - Rolex Collection - DAY-DATE
Rolex - Rolex Collection - ROLEX DEEPSEA
Rolex - Rolex Collection - EXPLORER
Rolex - Rolex Collection - GMT-MASTER II
Rolex - Rolex Collection - LADY-DATEJUST
Rolex - Rolex Collection - OYSTER PERPETUAL
Rolex - Rolex Collection - SEA-DWELLER
Rolex - Rolex Collection - SKY-DWELLER
Rolex - Rolex Collection - SUBMARINER
Rolex - Rolex Collection - YACHT-MASTER
Rolex - Gender - ROLEX MEN'S WATCHES
Rolex - Gender - ROLEX WOMEN'S WATCHES
Jewellery - Explore Our Range
Jewellery - Specialities
Jewellery - By Type - Accessories
Jewellery - By Type - Bracelets & Bangles
Jewellery - By Type - Earrings
Jewellery - By Type - Gents Jewellery
Jewellery - By Type - Necklaces
Jewellery - By Type - Rings
Jewellery - By Type - Couples' Rings
Jewellery - By Type - Birthstones
Jewellery - By Type - All Jewellery
Jewellery - Brand - Clogau
Jewellery - Brand - FOPE
Jewellery - Brand - Georg Jensen
Jewellery - Brand - Gucci Jewellery
Jewellery - Brand - Marco Bicego
Jewellery - Brand - Montblanc
Jewellery - Brand - Rachel Galley
Jewellery - Brand - Shaun Leane
Jewellery - Brand - YOKO London
Jewellery - Gemstone - Diamond
Jewellery - Gemstone - Lab Grown Diamond
Jewellery - Gemstone - Coloured Gems
Jewellery - Gemstone - Emerald
Jewellery - Gemstone - Pearl
Jewellery - Gemstone - Ruby
Jewellery - Gemstone - Sapphire
Jewellery - Metal - Platinum
Jewellery - Metal - White Gold
Jewellery - Metal - Yellow Gold
Jewellery - Metal - Rose Gold
Jewellery - Metal - Silver
Jewellery - Metal - Mixed
Jewellery - Shop By Price - Under £100
Jewellery - Shop By Price - £100 - £499
Jewellery - Shop By Price - £500 - £999
Jewellery - Shop By Price - £1000 - £2499
Jewellery - Shop By Price - £2500 - £5000
Jewellery - Specialities - Princess Margaret
Engagement - Explore Our Range
Engagement - Style - Solitaire
Engagement - Style - Halo
Engagement - Style - Trilogy
Engagement - Style - Cluster
Engagement - Style - Lab Grown
Engagement - Style - All Engagement Rings
Engagement - Material - Platinum
Engagement - Material - White Gold
Engagement - Material - Yellow Gold
Engagement - Material - Rose Gold
Engagement - Engagement Rings By Price - Under £1500
Engagement - Engagement Rings By Price - £1500 - £2999
Engagement - Engagement Rings By Price - £3000 - £4999
Engagement - Engagement Rings By Price - £5000 +
Engagement - Engagement Rings By Price - All Engagement Rings
Engagement - Our Diamond Guide - The 4Cs
Engagement - Our Diamond Guide - Diamond Shapes
Engagement - Our Diamond Guide - Diamond Ring Styles
Engagement - Our Diamond Guide - Natural Diamonds
Engagement - Our Diamond Guide - Ring Size Guide
Engagement - Our Diamond Guide - Lab Grown Diamond Guide
Wedding - Explore Our Range
Wedding - For The Groom
Wedding - Ring Material - White Gold
Wedding - Ring Material - Yellow Gold
Wedding - Ring Material - Rose Gold
Wedding - Ring Material - Platinum
Wedding - Ring Material - Palladium
Wedding - Ring Material - Mixed Metal
Wedding - Ring Material - All Wedding Rings
Wedding - Wedding Rings By Price - Under £1500
Wedding - Wedding Rings By Price - £1500 - £2999
Wedding - Wedding Rings By Price - Over £3000
Wedding - Wedding Rings By Price - All Wedding Rings
Wedding - Gender - Gents Wedding Rings
Wedding - Gender - Ladies Wedding Rings
Wedding - Gender - All Wedding Rings
Wedding - For The Bride - Bracelets & Bangles
Wedding - For The Bride - Earrings
Wedding - For The Bride - Necklaces
Wedding - For The Bride - Jewellery Storage
Wedding - For The Bride - Watches
Wedding - For The Groom - Gents Jewellery
Wedding - For The Groom - Cufflinks
Wedding - For The Groom - Watches
Wedding - Our Diamond Guide - The 4Cs
Wedding - Our Diamond Guide - Diamond Shapes
Wedding - Our Diamond Guide - Diamond Ring Styles
Wedding - Our Diamond Guide - Natural Diamonds
Wedding - Our Diamond Guide - Ring Size Guide
Wedding - Our Diamond Guide - Lab Grown Diamond Guide
Watches - Explore Our Range
Watches - Category
Watches - Brand - Rolex
Watches - Brand - TUDOR
Watches - Brand - Longines
Watches - Brand - TAG Heuer
Watches - Brand - Tissot
Watches - Brand - Gucci Watches
Watches - Category - Promotional
Watches - Category - Accessories
Watches - Gender - Gents Watches
Watches - Gender - Ladies Watches
Watches - Gender - All Watches
Watches - Watches By Price - Under £1000
Watches - Watches By Price - £1000 - £2999
Watches - Watches By Price - Over £3000
Watches - Watches By Price - All Watches
Gifts & Accessories - Explore Our Range
Gifts & Accessories - Type - Accessories
Gifts & Accessories - Type - Cleaning Products
Gifts & Accessories - Type - Cufflinks
Gifts & Accessories - Type - Homeware
Gifts & Accessories - Type - Jewellery Storage
Gifts & Accessories - Type - Watch Storage
Gifts & Accessories - Type - Writing Instruments
Gifts & Accessories - Brand - Deakin & Francis
Gifts & Accessories - Brand - Georg Jensen
Gifts & Accessories - Brand - Montblanc
Gifts & Accessories - Brand - Rapport
Gifts & Accessories - Brand - WOLF
Gifts & Accessories - Shop By Price - Gifts Under £100
Gifts & Accessories - Shop By Price - Gifts Under £250
Gifts & Accessories - Shop By Price - Gifts Under £500
Gifts & Accessories - Shop By Price - All Gifts & Accessories
Brands - Explore Our Range
Brands - Watch Brands
Brands - Jewellery Brands - Clogau
Brands - Jewellery Brands - FOPE
Brands - Jewellery Brands - Georg Jensen
Brands - Jewellery Brands - Gucci
Brands - Jewellery Brands - Marco Bicego
Brands - Jewellery Brands - Rachel Galley
Brands - Jewellery Brands - Shaun Leane
Brands - Jewellery Brands - YOKO London
Brands - Watch Brands - Rolex
Brands - Watch Brands - Gucci
Brands - Watch Brands - Longines
Brands - Watch Brands - TAG Heuer
Brands - Watch Brands - Tissot
Brands - Watch Brands - TUDOR
Brands - Gift Brands - Deakin & Francis
Brands - Gift Brands - Georg Jensen
Brands - Gift Brands - Montblanc
Brands - Gift Brands - Rapport London
Brands - Gift Brands - WOLF
Special Offers - Explore Our Range
Special Offers - Special Offer Watches
Special Offers - Special Offer Jewellery
Special Offers - Special Offer Watches - Ladies Watches
Special Offers - Special Offer Watches - Gents Watches
Special Offers - Special Offer Watches - All Watches
Special Offers - Special Offer Jewellery - Rings
Special Offers - Special Offer Jewellery - Necklaces
Special Offers - Special Offer Jewellery - Earrings
Special Offers - Special Offer Jewellery - Bracelets & Bangles
Special Offers - Special Offer Jewellery - All Jewellery
Services - Services - Bespoke Design
Services - Services - Watch & Jewellery Cleaning
Services - Services - Jewellery Repairs & Repurpose
Services - Services - Watch Servicing
Services - Services - Valuations
Services - Services - Insurance
Services - Services - Interest Free Finance
Services - Guides - Our Blog
Services - Guides - Baker Brothers 4Cs
Services - Guides - Natural Diamond Guide
Services - Guides - Lab Grown Diamond Guide
Services - Guides - UK Hallmarking Guide
Services - Guides - FAQ's
Services - About Us - The Baker Brothers Story
Services - About Us - Meet Our Team
Services - About Us - Contact Us
Services - About Us - Blog
Services - About Us - Community Fund
How Can We Help?
LiveChat