Sellita Watch Co.: A Leading Swiss Mechanical Movement Manufacturer

Sellita Watch Co. SA is a prominent Swiss watch movement manufacturer, founded in 1950 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. Initially working as an assembler and parts supplier, Sellita evolved over decades to become one of the most important producers of mechanical watch calibres in the Swiss industry.
Key Highlights

Founded: 1950 by Pierre Grandjean in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland

Early Role: Specialized in assembling ébauche movements and producing components for many Swiss brands

Close Relationship with ETA: For decades, Sellita assembled ETA movements, especially the popular ETA 2824-2, supplying countless watch brands

Market Shift in 2003: In response to the Swatch Group (owner of ETA) restricting third-party movement sales, Sellita started manufacturing their own versions of popular ETA calibres whose patents had expired

Flagship Movements:

SW 200-1 (clone of ETA 2824-2 with 1 additional jewel)

SW 300 (based on ETA 2892)

SW 500 (based on Valjoux 7750, used by brands like TAG Heuer)

Comprehensive Production: Controls all stages from design, manufacturing, assembly, to decoration of movements

Clientele: Movements power watches from many brands, including Oris, TAG Heuer, Sinn, Raymond Weil, Christopher Ward, and more

Modern Status: Today, Sellita is the second-largest Swiss mechanical movement manufacturer, crucial for the watch industry’s supply chain

Why Sellita Matters

Reliability & Availability: Known for robust, serviceable movements with broad spare parts availability, ensuring long-term support for watchmakers and collectors

Industry Impact: Filled a critical gap when ETA reduced supply to outside brands, preventing disruption in Swiss watch production

Innovation: Introduced improvements such as laser welding of the hairspring, maintaining Swiss watchmaking quality standards

Legacy: Reflects the strength and adaptability of Swiss horology amidst changing market dynamics and technological shifts

Sellita Watch Co. stands as a cornerstone of modern Swiss watchmaking — a company that transitioned from humble beginnings into a leader supplying reliable, precise, and widely respected mechanical movements worldwide. Its role is indispensable for many watch brands continuing the tradition of Swiss-made mechanical watches.