Article: Ruby in watchmaking: Between tradition and excellence

Ruby in watchmaking: Between tradition and excellence
In watchmaking, every component tells a story. Among these essential elements, rubies occupy a privileged place, testifying to a unique marriage between centuries-old tradition and technical excellence. Beyond their characteristic brilliance, these precious stones have become the signature of exceptional watchmaking expertise, where every detail counts in the quest for absolute precision.
The Legacy of Rubies in Fine Watchmaking
A History of Centuries-Old Precision
The introduction of rubies in watchmaking marked a decisive turning point in the search for mechanical perfection. As early as the 17th century, master watchmakers discovered the exceptional properties of this precious stone. Its remarkable hardness and resistance to wear quickly made it an essential element in the design of the most sophisticated movements.
The Transition to Synthetic Rubies: A Choice of Excellence
The advent of synthetic rubies at the beginning of the 20th century revolutionized the watchmaking industry. This innovation made it possible to obtain stones with properties identical to natural rubies, but with even greater regularity and precision. A choice that perfectly illustrates modern watchmaking's commitment to technical excellence.
The Essential Role of Rubies in our Movements
Strategic Points of Use
At the heart of every mechanical movement, rubies play a crucial role. Placed at key friction points, they accommodate the pivots of the movement's various cogs. This strategic arrangement ensures perfect rotation of the components, a sine qua non condition for chronometric precision.
The Art of Friction Reduction
Thanks to their openwork dial, men's skeleton watches offer a breathtaking view of every detail of the mechanism, revealing the precise dance of the cogs and watchmaking rubies. The latter, visible through the movement, do not just provide an aesthetic touch: they play a key role in reducing friction and ensuring the smooth operation of the watch.
The Signature of an Exceptional Watch
The Number of Rubies: Beyond the Numbers
While the number of jewels is often highlighted, it is above all a testament to an exhaustive approach to precision. Each ruby in our movements meets a specific need, contributing to the overall harmony of the mechanism. This quest for excellence is reflected in the particular attention paid to each point of contact.
The Impact on the Longevity of the Movement
The presence of rubies at strategic points in the movement guarantees exceptional durability. By minimizing wear on the components, they help preserve the initial precision of the timepiece over the years, even generations.
Modern Know-How at the Service of Tradition
Technical Innovations
The contemporary use of rubies in watchmaking benefits from the latest technological advances. Modern cutting and polishing techniques make it possible to achieve unmatched levels of precision, while respecting the age-old traditions of watchmaking.
The Perpetual Quest for Perfection
The integration of rubies into our movements illustrates our constant commitment to excellence. Each new creation benefits from this perpetual quest for perfection, where tradition and innovation come together in the service of fine watchmaking.
The presence of rubies in a watch movement transcends their simple technical function. It represents a watchmaker’s commitment to excellence and precision. In this constant dialogue between tradition and innovation, rubies remain the silent witnesses of our quest for chronometric perfection.