Headline, March27, 2013

'''THE FINEST PRECISION ENGINEERIN​G

 IN THE WORLD : BREITLING'​''

What other mechanical device is expected to function 24-7, 365 days a year for lifetime without a failure?

Of the over 50,000 or so people directly employed in the Swiss watch industry, a relatively meagre 400 work between Breitling's HQ in Grenchen and its new Chronometrie in the haute-horological region of La Chaux-de-Fonds.

And yet the brand, established in 1884, is a global phenomenon, virtually owning the technical and aviation watch sector since launching its iconic Chronomat in 1984, and responsible one of the most recognizable watch dials ever, 1959's ''slide rule on the wrist'' Navitimer.

Still in private hands  -the third generation Breitling family sold the company to Ernest Schneider. Breitling continues to pitch its dynamic, adventuring brand values perfectly: in 2002 it launched what remains one of the most successful ''affinity partnerships'' ever, with its Bretling for Bentley collection.

Although Breitling's production to date has been largely based on modified movements principally by the Swatch Group's ETA company, all its watches are COSC certified, and therefore make excellent buy for those less minded to pursue the realm of high-end manufacture timepieces  -ie from a producer whose movements are wholly assembled in-house.

But since 2004 Breitling has worked hard to create its own movement. The result is the 01, launched in 2009 and now available in its Transocean Chronograph, Chronomat and Navitimer models.

The corporate pride in this achievement is evident from a tour of La Chaux-de-Fonds Chronometrie  -a light drenched production facility that, according to Beitling's vice president was modeled on a Geneva Blood-testing laboratory, such is the importance of speed, efficiency and scrupulous standards of cleanliness. After all a movement is the ''heart'' of a watch.

With respectful dedications to all the students and professors of Switzerland. Hope to see you all on the World Students Society Computers-Internet-Wireless.

Good Night & God Bless!

SAM Daily Times - the Voice of the Voiceless