CORROSION RESISTANCE Perspiration, chlorine, soap, seawater, air pollution: these and other environmental factors can damage a watch’s components and materials. Victorinox performs tests to make sure the parts in its watches do not suffer wear or loss of mobility due to expo- sure to corrosive elements. Neutrality and skin sensitization tests are also conducted on all components that come into contact with skin, including cases and all types of bracelets. UV RESISTANCE Intense light and sunlight can damage many materials used in watches, such as coatings, synthetic elements, rubber and leather. These materials are therefore rigorously tested to ensure their durability. Certification is only granted by our Quality Team if no signs of ageing are observed during these tests.
SHOCK RESISTANCE A number of severe shock-resistance tests are performed on Victorinox watches. Heavy impacts – such as the equivalent of a violent collision with a wall, for example – are reproduced in the lab. After absorbing the shock, we make sure that the movement is functional. AGE RESISTANCE Victorinox watches are function-tested to simulate the ageing process. Moving parts such as push-pieces, crowns and bezels are turned and manipulated to replicate several years of normal use. ABRASION RESISTANCE The Quality Team conducts intensive abra- sion tests, particularly on cases, bracelets and straps, to make sure our watches can be worn in all situations without suffering premature wear during their lifetime. VISUAL AND MANUAL TESTING In addition to these mechanical and chemical tests, every Victorinox watch is visually checked by a member of the Quality Team between each manufactur- ing stage to assure its overall quality according to our own Victorinox stand- ards. If a watch does not pass this visual inspection, it is repaired or replaced. All watches that do not pass our quality check are discarded.
TRACTION/TORSION RESISTANCE
Buckles on leather straps and clasps on steel bracelets must withstand constant use during a watch’s lifetime. Victorinox submits all of its watches to traction and torsion tests, with a particular focus on attachment pins, to make sure they can resist accidental snagging and also that there be no breakage or damage to the bracelet. VIBRATION RESISTANCE Everyday wrist movements and sports such as cycling, jogging, horseback riding or skiing can affect the performance, quality and accuracy of a watch. To pre- vent this, special machines put Victorinox watches through more severe vibrations than they would ever experience on even the most active of wrists. If a watch or any of its components does not survive this trial, it is not certified.
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