LA CHAUX-DE-FONDS IS LOCATED IN THE CANTON OF NEUCHÂTEL, SWITZERLAND, AT AN
ALTITUDE OF 1’000 METERS.

History and Dynamism

La Chaux-de-Fonds, one of the largest cities in French-speaking Switzerland inhabitants (38,000), is an industrial center, particularly in the watchmaking sector. This is why it is often referred to as a watchmaking metropolis. In 2009 La Chaux-de-Fonds was distinguished by UNESCO, describing its heritage as exceptional

La Chaux-De-Fonds

 

La Chaux-de-Fonds / Le Locle

In the mountains of the Swiss Jura Mountains, on land ill-suited for agriculture, these two neighboring towns illustrate an original type of urban development that reflects the specific needs watchmaking. After three major fires, new urban planning. The layout, an open plan with parallel streets, mixed housing workshops, which corresponded to the needs of the artisans and is still maintained today. The site is a remarkable example of a mono-industrial activity. The city layout is protected as a patrimonial legacy.

The urban planning of the two cities has adapted to the transition from an artisanal production with home-based work, to a manufacturing production. In his book "Der Capital", Karl Marx analyzes the division of labor, and uses the example of the watchmaking industry in the Swiss Jura, thus coining the term "manufacturing town.”

La Chaux-De-Fonds

CONTINUE TO DISCOVER CHÂTELAIN
La Chaux-de-Fonds historique photo
G&F Châtelain was established in La Chaux-de-Fonds in 1947. Since then,
its development has been tremendous.
Manufacture vue du ciel
As a responsible company, we take great care in the selection of our primary materials in respect to the environment. The entire value chain of gold and diamonds is chosen in perfect conformity with human and social rights.