In-Depth: Inside Tudor, Kenissi and the Whole Industrial Ecosystem Behind the Brand
Tudor, founded in 1926 by Hans Wilsdorf, has undergone a significant transformation over the past 15 years, shifting from reliance on outsourced movements to modern in-house capabilities. The brand’s manufacturing is now centered in a state-of-the-art facility in Le Locle, inaugurated in 2023, which emphasizes quality control and advanced technology. The production process features robotic assistance and a "no stock" approach, ensuring efficiency and precision. Tudor watches are primarily powered by movements from Kenissi, a company established to develop and produce Tudor’s movements as well as those for third-party brands, reinforcing the brand's commitment to quality and reliability. Kenissi operates closely with Tudor, focusing on the manufacturing of movements and components, including oscillators and hairsprings, which are crucial for watch performance. The company has established a network of strategic partners for other essential components, such as dials and cases, ensuring all suppliers meet Tudor's high standards. While Tudor shares a heritage with Rolex, it maintains a distinct industrial model that emphasizes independence in production and quality, setting it apart within the watch industry. Tudor watches also meet rigorous standards, including Master Chronometer certification, showcasing the brand's dedication to excellence and innovation.
