Institutions – Certification bodies & labs

FLEURIER QUALITY FOUNDATION (FQF)

The Fleurier Quality Foundation (FQF) certifies the excellence of high-end timepieces in precision, craftsmanship, durability, and Swiss origin.

Origin and History

The FQF was founded in 2001 by Bovet, Chopard, Parmigiani Fleurier, Vaucher Manufacture, and the municipality of Fleurier. The goal was to create a certification that exceeded existing standards, particularly in terms of holistic quality assurance. The first watch to receive the FQF certification was introduced in 2004.

FQF certifies finished watches, not just movements, ensuring that the entire product meets its rigorous standards. It evaluates multiple aspects of a watch, from precision to aesthetics, to guarantee a comprehensive quality seal.

    FQF qualité Fleurier

    The official seal of the Fleurier Quality Foundation (FQF)

    Criteria for Certification

    The FQF certification is one of the most demanding in the industry, involving a series of tests that evaluate the watch as a whole. To achieve certification, a timepiece must satisfy the following criteria:

    1. Swiss Origin
    • Every component of the watch, both internal and external, must be 100% Swiss-made. This goes beyond the standard Swiss Made label, ensuring absolute Swiss provenance.
    1. Chronometry
    • Each watch must pass COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres) certification for precision.
    • Additionally, the completed watch undergoes Chronofiable testing, simulating six months of wear to evaluate its durability under real-world conditions.
    1. Fleuritest
    • Unique to FQF, the Fleuritest measures the watch’s precision while it is fully assembled and worn in a range of simulated daily activities.
    • This test ensures the watch performs consistently in various positions and conditions, reflecting actual use.
    1. Aesthetics and Craftsmanship
    • The watch is inspected for exceptional finishing, including hand-polished components, chamfered edges, and decorations like circular graining or Côtes de Genève.
    • The design and execution must adhere to the highest standards of visual and tactile quality.
    1. Reliability and Durability
    • The watch must demonstrate robustness under stress tests, including resistance to shocks, magnetism, and temperature fluctuations.