To mark its 30th anniversary, the Centre Neuchâtelois d’Intégration Professionnelle (CNIP) made an impact by unveiling a limited series of 47 unique watches under the DUBIED brand. Presented in the former premises of the DUBIED factory in Couvet, this project is both a tribute to the rich industrial past of the Val-de-Travers and an outstanding showcase for the professional skills of CNIP learners. The evening, attended by figures such as State Councillor Florence Natter, highlighted the importance of watchmaking craftsmanship and training in the canton of Neuchâtel.
A watch full of symbolism
The DUBIED watch, named “Fil Rouge”, is more than a simple timepiece. It symbolises the thread of time and the strong bond connecting Couvet's industrial history with modern watchmaking. “We are not a watch manufacturer, but this watch allows our learners to see themselves in a tangible project and develop rewarding skills,” emphasised Thuan Nguyen, director of CNIP, during the event.
Designed in collaboration with students from the École d’arts appliqués de La Chaux-de-Fonds, the “Fil Rouge” watch incorporates graphic elements inspired by knitting, a nod to the former knitting machines produced by DUBIED. Amina Gavranovic and Melissa Simic, winners of an internal competition, are behind this innovative design, which merges history and modernity.
Learning at the heart of the project
CNIP involved its apprentices in every stage of manufacturing the watch, strengthening their technical expertise and craftsmanship. From the case to the crown, several components were machined directly within the institution, giving students hands-on, immersive experience. “This project allows them to handle a finished product and acquire precise professional terminology,” added Thuan Nguyen.
The project also benefited from the support of local partners and suppliers, who contributed to this authentic production experience. The 47 watches produced will be presented to CNIP's partners in recognition of their commitment to the institution.
Workshops open to the public planned for 2025
Building on this success, CNIP aims to go even further. From 2025, it is considering opening its workshops to the public, allowing everyone to design and assemble their own DUBIED watch. Supervised by the trainers, this initiative aims to create a direct link between the community and CNIP, while highlighting the expertise acquired by the learners.
An industrial tradition carried forward
Founded in 1994, CNIP moved in 2001 into the historic buildings of the DUBIED factory, a flagship of knitting machine production that shaped the economy of the Val-de-Travers. With this watchmaking project, CNIP reconnects with that glorious past while looking firmly towards the future.
The 47 limited-edition DUBIED watches symbolically recall the 47 employees of the DUBIED factory who, in 1930, received watches in recognition of their years of service. This symbolic gesture places CNIP within a historical continuum, while offering learners a rare opportunity to work on a product that is both tangible and meaningful.
Thank you to CentreHorloger.ch and CNIP for this wonderful adventure.
TimFocus
