Scattered in and amongst Switzerland's snow-capped summits, picturesque valleys and tranquil lakes, the finest watchmakers in the world continue to ply their trade — as they have for more than four centuries.
And every April, the entire industry congregates in Geneva, the very heart of this watchmaking kingdom, to celebrate novelty and forge relationships new.
2024 marked Atelier Wen's very first participation in the festivities — but more than that — it represented an opportunity to introduce Master Cheng to a world apart.
This third episode of our series of documentary shorts chronicles this very special journey there; to a distant land of masters and the first guillocheurs he has encountered beyond his workshop walls.
Unfamiliar surroundings
Until he began his journey in guillochage a decade ago, Cheng had spent his years working odd jobs in China. And up until that point, he had never before ventured beyond the limits of the Chinese mainland.
April this year marked the first time he set foot outside the country of his birth, and it was our great pleasure to fly him into the heart of the world's watchmaking capital — to showcase his craft for all to see in the belly of the Beau Rivage.
In the process, Cheng got to encounter some extremely special individuals, as well as find — to his great surprise — that so many on the far side of the world knew who he was.
About Inside the Atelier
Inside the Atelier is a series of documentary-shorts that seeks to peel back the curtain on some of China's most distinguished master artisans across various crafts, as well as the exceptional manufacturing partners that allow us to do what we do.
So much skill goes unrealised and uncelebrated in China, and in the worlds of watchmaking and fine craftsmanship, this is especially true. Inside the Atelier is our ode to these cultures and capabilities. We cannot wait to show you more!
Watch the Film
Our heartfelt thanks goes out to Elyse Gyger— our videographer, who followed us throughout our time in Switzerland and chronicled our adventures there, and Yoann Roig, who spent hours sorting, assembling and editing the footage through the different cuts.
We would also like to extend our immense gratitude towards the following people who made our time in Switzerland unforgettable:
Baudouin Van Es
Bryan Paradiso
Kari Voutilainen
Nathalie Marielloni
Wei Koh
We sincerely hope you enjoy the film, and we cannot wait to hear what you think!