Excelsior Park
Saint-Imier, Switzerland · Est. 1866
Founded by Jules-Frédéric Jeanneret
Excelsior Park was a Swiss chronograph movement manufacturer from Saint-Imier, founded in 1866. Its column-wheel chronograph calibres were used by Gallet, Girard-Perregaux, and many other brands. The manufacture was absorbed during Swiss industry consolidation.
- Founded
- 1866
- Headquarters
- Saint-Imier, Switzerland
- Group
- Other
- Price Segment
- Luxury
- Status
- Defunct
Ceased: 1985
Excelsior Park was absorbed into the SSIH group and its chronograph movement production ceased as the Swatch Group consolidated Swiss manufacturing.
The chronograph engine room of Saint-Imier — Excelsior Park movements powered Gallet, Girard-Perregaux, and a dozen others, always behind the curtain.
Key Collections
- Calibre 4 (EP4) — Excelsior Park's legendary column-wheel chronograph movement, prized for its precision and reliability, supplied to numerous prestigious watch houses throughout the twentieth century.
- Calibre 40 — A refined chronograph calibre that became widely adopted by brands seeking high-quality Swiss movement production during the mid-twentieth century.
- Monte Carlo Chronograph — A branded chronograph wristwatch featuring Excelsior Park's own movements, notable for its racing-inspired aesthetics and robust construction.
- Park 75 — A later-generation chronograph calibre developed in the 1970s, representing the manufacture's continued innovation before industry consolidation.
Timeline
- 1866 — Jules-Frédéric Jeanneret establishes Excelsior Park in Saint-Imier, initially producing watch components and movements.
- 1891 — The company begins specialising in chronograph movements, establishing its reputation for precision timing mechanisms.
- 1930 — Excelsior Park introduces the Calibre 4 (EP4), which becomes one of the most respected column-wheel chronograph movements in the industry.
- 1957 — The manufacture is integrated into the SSIH group alongside Omega and Tissot, continuing chronograph movement production.
- 1985 — Following the formation of the Swatch Group, Excelsior Park ceases independent production as manufacturing is consolidated.
Frequently Asked Questions about Excelsior Park
- When did Excelsior Park stop making watches?
- Excelsior Park ceased independent movement production in 1985 following the consolidation of Swiss watch manufacturing under the newly formed Swatch Group, ending over a century of chronograph expertise.
- Are Excelsior Park watches still valuable?
- Yes, Excelsior Park movements and branded chronographs are highly sought after by collectors. The EP4 calibre is particularly prized, and watches featuring these movements command premium prices at auction.
- Can I still buy an Excelsior Park watch today?
- Excelsior Park watches and movements are available only through the vintage market, specialist dealers, and auction houses. The brand no longer produces timepieces.
- Which watch brands used Excelsior Park movements?
- Numerous prestigious brands sourced Excelsior Park chronograph calibres, including Gallet, Girard-Perregaux, Universal Genève, and Heuer, among many others seeking high-quality column-wheel movements.
- What makes Excelsior Park chronograph movements special?
- Excelsior Park movements are celebrated for their traditional column-wheel construction, exceptional finishing, and reliable performance, representing the finest Swiss chronograph manufacture traditions.