M4
[Parmigiani Moderator]
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The Qualite Fleurier (QF) Certification and what it means.
Parmigiani and Chopard are two brands which have embraced the QF certification for at least several of their references, which is not surprising considering that they, along with Bovet, founded the Fleurier Quality Foundation in the early 2000s.
The micro rotor movement of the non-QF certified green dial watch.
PHOTO CREDIT: HODINKEE
The micro rotor movement of the QF certified silver dial watch. Note the QF logo under ”L.U.Chopard"
My research into the requirements of the QF certification confirmed the thought that it adds significant cost to the manufacturing process. As noted on the QF website, the requirements for certification include not only chronometric standards (such as COSC) but also finishing and aesthetic requirements. Importantly, some of the testing is destructive testing which requires a manufacturer to supply additional "watch heads" that won't be returned after testing is complete. The QF standards are summarized below.
100% Swiss Made
The Swiss content requirement applies to the “watch head,” which is defined as the case, the display, and the complete movement. The bracelet and buckle are excluded.
The 100% Swiss requirement for QF certification is much higher than the typical “Swiss Made” designation found on many dials, which I understand means minimum 60% Swiss content.
Exclusive Aesthetic / Quality of Finish
This requirement differs from other certification regimens which typically are concerned with chronometric performance, not aesthetics. As stated on the QF website:
“Exclusive finishing:
A decoration must necessarily be visible on the maximum thickness of the plate or on the visible part of the bridge, as well as in the main recesses. No visible burrs must be present and the functional zones of the steel parts must be polished. The shaped parts must be beveled, polished, and where technically possible have lines drawn out with file strokes.”
“Means:
Manufacturing procedures for decorations may be either mechanical or manual. Operations carried out in bulk only are not tolerated.”
[M4 comment: I love that last sentence . . “Operations carried out in bulk are not tolerated” 😊]
Chronofiable Test
The chronofiable test is a test of a watch’s durability. It is a destructive test. So, for example, if a manufacturer is making a production run of 200 pieces, an additional 10 pieces must be made and submitted for testing.
COSC Certification
COSC certification relates to chronometric performance and is fairly common in the industry. To obtain QF certification, the watch must also pass COSC standards.
Fleury Test
This test is an additional level of chronometric performance that simulates a 24 hour wear cycle, including alternate active cycles and calm cycles. The standard to achieve is 0 to +5 seconds per day.
Read the QF standards here:
PHOTO CREDIT: THE TIMEPIECE COLLECTION
PHOTO CREDIT: MONOCHROME
Note the QF logo above the date. This model, called a Kalpa Tonda comes in both 39mm and 42mm.
PHOTO CREDIT: HODINKEE
The Qualite Fleurier (QF) Certification and what it means.
Outstanding post, Dan. I learned a lot!
Thanks for this interesting post.
Thanks quattro. I'm not sure if Parmigiani has abandoned the QF certification entirely or just reserve it for special models. I'll try to find out.
I tried to find where I have read and heard that
