Watchmaking machine to stay in Australia

*** Important! Action required.

Last night, I got a call that an important watchmaking tool is potentially available for sale. The machine was built during the golden years of Swiss manufacturing, and it is in perfect condition. It was imported to Australia a few years ago by a watchmaker who had plans to start his own watch brand.

What makes this machine unique? It is one of the remaining few still in existence. There are numerous overseas buyers who would kill to get their hands on one and would pay a premium to secure the deal. The machine executes a very specific operation, creating a very special finish that is highly appreciated in horology. A kind of tool that takes a piece from “excellent” to “masterpiece”.

Over the past few decades, Swiss brands—and one brand in particular—have actively sourced these vintage machines, acquiring them with only one intention: to prevent other brands from getting their hands on them. The best examples are locked in storage, while others are pulled apart, or simply destroyed.

However, right now, we have no need to expand in this area of horology. And quite frankly, we’ve spent all the money allocated for equipment and tooling this year. To spend more at such short notice would be irresponsible.

Yet, an opportunity like this comes once in a decade. To miss it would be equally irresponsible.

Those who follow our progress are fully aware that while I am not a risk-taker, I am neither a risk-avoider. After all, we’ve come so far thanks to your support. The burning question is: are YOU willing to take the risk and help us secure the machine? Is it in your interest that the machine stays in Australia so that, one day, it will be put to good use?

The irony is that we are not even talking exuberant amounts of money; a mere $28,000 in total and it could be ours, including crating and delivery to Sydney.

Plan of action

If you, like myself, feel compelled to prevent this machine from leaving Australia, then I strongly suggest that we get into action today. Together, we can make it happen. I have opened a crowdfunding page at GoFundMe with a goal of raising $28,000.

Of course, it is entirely up to you to decide your level of support: any amount is appreciated.

Are we going to reach the goal?

Absolutely. I am confident that we are mature enough to recognize the obvious: Manufactured in Australia is big deal, and a deal worth sacrificing for. As a nation, we simply have no choice but to continue to invest in our future.

Who will own the machine?

The machine will be entirely owned by Sydney Watches Pty Ltd. SW will provide workshop space for the machine, undertake necessary maintenance, and cover the insurance cost. However, since its acquisition is the result of a collective effort, we will make the machine available to fellow Australian watchmakers for training and education purposes. In addition, as our direct supporter, you would be invited to our annual workshop tour, and have an opportunity to be photographed with the machine you’ve generously saved from extinction.

Photos of the machine please!

Not yet. This acquisition is tricky, so there is an element of “keeping a low profile” until the deal is done.

I will leave you with this: not long ago, just before covid, a complete “top of the range” Bergeon lathe was offered for sale. It came from the estate of an Australian watchmaker. While some members of Watch and Clockmakers of Australia were aware of the lathe, the information was not widely circulated. The lathe ended up on eBay and was sold for $19,000 to a Japanese watchmaker. The replacement value? More than $60,000. Can we afford to have this happen again?

Nicholas Hacko

Watchmaker

Sydney Watches Pty Ltd