CORTÉBERT (Swiss Made), VINTAGE 1950s, MANUAL

The story of Cortebert began in 1790 in the Swiss village of Cortebert, located in the canton of Bern, where it was established as a small manufacturer of pocket watches. From its inception, the brand distinguished itself by producing high-quality mechanical watches, earning a solid reputation for precision and craftsmanship. Throughout the 19th century, Cortebert became one of Switzerland’s most respected watchmakers, exporting its timepieces to European and Middle Eastern markets.

Innovation and Growth in the 19th Century

During the 19th century, Cortebert introduced significant technical innovations in watchmaking. It was among the first to adopt Swiss lever escapements, which greatly improved the accuracy and durability of its watches. The company also specialized in producing railway watches, which were highly valued for their reliability in timekeeping within global railway systems.

International Expansion and Railway Watches

Cortebert gained international fame when its watches were adopted by the railways of various countries, including Italy, Spain, and Turkey. Notably, the brand became the official watch supplier for Turkish railways and served the legendary Orient Express. This association solidified Cortebert’s image as a producer of robust and precise timepieces, essential for navigation and transportation.

Decline and Legacy

Like many other Swiss brands, Cortebert faced significant challenges during the quartz crisis of the 1970s and 1980s, as electronic and quartz watches dominated the market. Despite its rich history and legacy, the brand could not compete with the mass production of more affordable quartz watches and eventually ceased operations. However, Cortebert watches, particularly its railway and pocket models, remain highly valued by collectors and enthusiasts of mechanical watchmaking.

Cortebert Today

Although the brand no longer produces watches, its legacy lives on in the watchmaking world. Vintage Cortebert watches are considered collectible pieces due to their quality, classic design, and historical connection to railway timekeeping. The story of Cortebert is a testament to the art of traditional Swiss watchmaking, and its influence endures as a symbol of precision and reliability.

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