The Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, was founded recently in Berne, as a private law foundation, on the initiative of its three founding members: Audemars Piguet, Girard-Perregaux and the Richemont Group.

As Franco Cologni, President of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, explained, “this foundation has a primary and essential objective: through the realization of information and training projects, to contribute actively, on a worldwide basis, to the propagation and development of the technical and precious patrimony and values of Fine Watchmaking, based on tradition and innovation”.

The Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie intends to play an all important role in the circulation, reinforcement and growth of this exceptional heritage. In order to succeed in this mission, the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie means to transcend all the divisions and assemble the greatest possible number of actors who are working in its privileged field: brands and retailers; watchmakers, manufacturers, craftsmen; collectors, journalists and enthusiastic amateurs.

Operationally, it comprises two complementary poles of activity: the Centre Culturel de la Haute Horlogerie (non profit), responsible for its cultural and institutional activities, and events and promotional activities (profit making). This second pole is directly responsible for the organization of exhibitions and events dedicated to the promotion of Haute Horlogerie. It is responsible right now for the task of organizing the next Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), which will take place for the sixteenth time in Geneva, from 3rd to the 9th of April 2006.

This Foundation’s vocation is to cover all aspects of Haute Horlogerie, including the challenges relating to technical, aesthetic and cultural areas, offers and services, values, traditions and heritage. However, entirely future-orientated, it will be active in the areas of research and development of new trades and new markets and at the forefront of innovation and future business developments.

Among the many tasks that the Centre Culturel de la Haute Horlogerie intends to take on progressively, it is worth noting the creation of a Center for Study and Research, which will gather and provide the most complete and relevant analyses and information relating to this industry.

 

http://www.hautehorlogerie.org/