Valjoux
Les Bioux, Switzerland · Est. 1901
Founded by John Aufranc, Charles Reymond
Valjoux was the world's most celebrated chronograph movement manufacturer, producing legendary calibres like the 72 and 7750 from the Vallée de Joux. Though absorbed into ETA, 'Valjoux' remains synonymous with mechanical chronograph excellence.
- Founded
- 1901
- Headquarters
- Les Bioux, Switzerland
- Group
- Swatch Group
- Price Segment
- Mid
- Status
- Defunct
Ceased: 2004
Valjoux was absorbed into ETA SA as the Swatch Group consolidated its movement production. The Valjoux name survives only as a calibre designation (e.g., Valjoux 7750) within ETA's catalogue.
The most famous name in chronograph movements — Valjoux disappeared as a company but its calibres will tick forever.
Key Collections
- Calibre 23 — Introduced in 1914, this column-wheel chronograph became a benchmark for early twentieth-century timing mechanisms and established Valjoux's reputation for precision.
- Calibre 72 — Launched in 1942, this manually wound column-wheel chronograph powered iconic watches from Rolex, Patek Philippe, and others, earning legendary status among collectors.
- Calibre 7750 — Debuting in 1974, this robust automatic chronograph with cam-switching became the world's most widely used mechanical chronograph movement, found in countless luxury and mid-range timepieces.
- Calibre 7751 — A derivative of the 7750 featuring additional complications including triple calendar and moonphase, demonstrating Valjoux's capacity for complex movement architecture.
Timeline
- 1901 — Valjoux founded in Les Bioux, Vallée de Joux, by John Aufranc and Charles Reymond to manufacture chronograph movements.
- 1914 — Introduction of the Calibre 23, establishing Valjoux as a premier chronograph ébauche supplier.
- 1942 — Launch of the Calibre 72, which would become one of the most revered manual-wind chronograph movements in horological history.
- 1974 — Debut of the Calibre 7750 automatic chronograph, revolutionising the industry with its reliable and cost-effective design.
- 1983 — Valjoux becomes part of ETA SA following the formation of the Swatch Group through the merger of ASUAG and SSIH.
- 2004 — The Valjoux corporate entity is formally dissolved, with the name retained only as a calibre designation within ETA's movement catalogue.
Frequently Asked Questions about Valjoux
- When did Valjoux stop making watches?
- Valjoux never manufactured complete watches; it was an ébauche maker specialising in chronograph movements. The company was absorbed into ETA SA in 1983 and formally dissolved in 2004, though the Valjoux name continues as a calibre designation.
- Are Valjoux movements still valuable?
- Vintage Valjoux movements, particularly the Calibre 72, command significant premiums among collectors and watchmakers. The 7750 remains highly regarded for its serviceability and robustness, making watches equipped with it consistently desirable.
- Can I still buy a watch with a Valjoux movement today?
- Yes. ETA continues to produce the Valjoux 7750 and its derivatives, which are used by numerous watch brands. Vintage watches containing original Calibre 72 and other historic Valjoux movements are available through specialist dealers and auction houses.
- Why is the Valjoux 7750 so widely used?
- The 7750's popularity stems from its reliable automatic winding, straightforward cam-actuated chronograph mechanism, ease of service, and cost-effectiveness. Its modular design also allows manufacturers to add complications relatively simply.
- What is the difference between Valjoux and ETA movements?
- Valjoux was a specialist chronograph movement manufacturer that became part of ETA. Today, movements branded 'Valjoux' are produced by ETA and typically denote chronograph calibres, whereas ETA's broader catalogue includes time-only and other complication movements.