Audemars Piguet has recently inaugurated "The Arc," a magnificent new manufacturing facility in Le Brassus. This expansive 23,700-square-meter site marks a significant milestone, bringing together diverse watchmaking disciplines under one roof. It underscores the brand's enduring connection to the Vallée de Joux and its dedication to fostering regional growth and prosperity for generations to come. The design of The Arc prioritizes adaptability, operational efficiency, employee well-being, and environmental stewardship, earning it the prestigious Minergie-ECO label, which aligns perfectly with Audemars Piguet's forward-thinking philosophy.
The official opening of The Arc followed a preview event where Audemars Piguet showcased its latest creations, coinciding with its 150th-anniversary celebrations. Both its interior and exterior command attention. The building's gracefully curved 321-meter facade, though grand, seamlessly integrates with the serene landscape of Le Brassus and the Vallée de Joux. Conceived by de Giuli & Portier and completed over three years, this facility embodies Industry 4.0 principles, providing a dynamic, spacious, and naturally lit environment for up to 700 employees. The Arc acts as a central nexus, integrating specialized technical skills that were previously dispersed across the watchmaking valley, thereby enhancing synergy and knowledge transfer.
Understanding The Arc's significance requires an appreciation of the historic établissage system, a traditional Swiss watchmaking production model. Originating from the term établi, meaning "workbench," this method involved assembling watches from components procured from various expert suppliers. Historically, many of these suppliers were farmers who transitioned to crafting watch parts during the harsh winter months when agricultural activities ceased. An établisseur would then oversee and coordinate the entire process. This decentralized approach, prevalent until the late 19th century, relied on independent specialists creating specific elements such as cases, dials, hands, and movements, with the établisseur responsible for ordering, inspecting, and assembling them into finished timepieces. Today, while some companies still utilize external component sourcing, Audemars Piguet's new facility aims to centralize many processes, emphasizing a 'manufacture' model where most parts are produced in-house. This strategy at The Arc promotes both collaborative efforts and the cultivation of individual expertise, consolidating technical specializations that were previously scattered throughout the Vallée de Joux.
Designed for longevity and future expansion, The Arc represents a forward-looking production site. It incorporates streamlined workflows, cutting-edge automation, and an advanced storage system to maximize efficiency. These sophisticated methodologies enable skilled artisans to concentrate on intricate, high-value tasks, thereby upholding Audemars Piguet's renowned reputation in haute horlogerie. Furthermore, The Arc boasts a Minergie-ECO certification, signifying its robust environmental commitment. The building integrates renewable energy sources, energy-efficient systems, and a design that supports biodiversity. This innovative structure masterfully blends historical legacy with contemporary advancements, enabling Audemars Piguet to reinforce its deep roots in the Vallée de Joux while safeguarding its invaluable watchmaking heritage and expertise for generations to come.
This pioneering facility not only signifies Audemars Piguet's ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation but also its deep respect for the traditions of Swiss watchmaking. By centralizing its diverse crafts, the brand is poised to enhance collaboration and push the boundaries of horological artistry, ensuring that the legacy of precision and craftsmanship continues to thrive in the heart of the Vallée de Joux.