Geneva Hallmark

The Geneva Hallmark or Controle de Genève is a hallmark signifying that a watch comes from Geneva.

Origin of the Hallmark

The demand for State protection of Geneva products in the watchmaking industry led to the establishment of Controle de Genève. Prior to its creation in 1886, a significant number of watches labeled "Geneva" were of foreign origin and often of inferior quality, causing a decline in trust among consumers. Concerned watchmakers formed a commission, supported by the Council of State of Geneva, resulting in the immediate implementation of a control system. According to the law enacted on November 6, 1886, a hallmark, depicting the arms of the Republic and Canton of Geneva, would be affixed to watch movements meeting specified quality and origin standards.

The Watch Control Act, while ensuring quality, was declared optional to avoid adversely affecting the interests of major local watchmaking houses with existing stocks abroad. An optional label, featuring the Geneva crest and the inscriptions "Montre de Genève" and "Contrôle Officiel" is attached to the pendant of the watch. For lever escapements, manufacturers can request a test certificate from the office indicating the regular functioning of the watch. Despite the optional nature of control, the legislator aimed to mitigate concerns about increased costs by transparently presenting inspection fees: 1 franc for complicated watches, repeaters, chronographs, etc.; 75 centimes for watch winders, anchor and cylinder watches; and 50 centimes for key watches of all kinds.