Hugues’ Accomplishment: The Story of Hugues Bürki
Hugues Bürki, an alumnus of the Technicum in La Chaux-de-Fonds, achieved significant acclaim by creating a record-breaking school watch known as the calibre 65, which exemplified high-precision chronometry during his training. The Technicum, founded in 1865, was renowned for its rigorous curriculum that prioritized chronometry, leading to a rich legacy of innovation in watchmaking. Bürki’s watch achieved an exceptional N-score of 3.31 points during observatory testing, marking it as the most precise large-calibre school watch ever produced, a record that remains unbroken. After graduation, Bürki contributed to the advancement of chronograph technology while working with the Société Suisse pour l’Industrie Horlogère, where he developed a vertical friction clutch that significantly improved the functionality of chronographs. His innovations have had a lasting impact on the industry, influencing modern chronograph designs and ensuring that his legacy endures in contemporary watchmaking. Ultimately, Bürki’s journey from a skilled student at the Technicum to a pioneering watchmaker highlights the exceptional training and opportunities offered by Swiss horological education.
