When a supplier is seen as a genuine development partner.
The major watch manufacturers need to be able to rely on trusted suppliers if they are to develop exceptional products. The long-standing collaboration between IWC Schaffhausen and Lecureux in Bienne is a perfect example of a successful partnership. Interview with Jonathan Goerke, Department Manager Industrialisation Movement & Watch at the Schaffhausen-based manufacture.
Biel-based Lecureux is a manufacturer of precision tools which, thanks to 60 years’ experience in the market, has acquired a wealth of technical know-how. The company’s best-seller is the screwdriver, although it has diversified into various areas of assembly and automation. “IWC’s industrialisation department is constantly striving to provide the best possible technical solution for its colleagues in the assembly departments, and Lécureux offers us cutting-edge technologies in this respect,” confirms Jonathan Goerke.
The advantages from IWC’s point of view.
Lecureux screwdrivers are the reference in a large number of watchmaking companies, and offer a series of advantages that set them apart from the competition. Jonathan Goerke details some of them. “Firstly, flexibility: thanks to the multi-size and multi-torque screwdrivers, we can use a single screwdriver throughout an assembly line.
Secondly, the various control units, like the E-Screw, allow us to measure torque at any time, with a display of the force curve and friction measurements. This unit tells us whether or not these curves are correct, so we can adapt the Lecureux screwdrivers we install to suit our needs, or those of others. 
Thirdly, the screwdrivers can be used several times in the different control units. Another advantage is that by ‘tightening’ the screws with manual torque screwdrivers, we can check and ensure the correct torque. Finally, the range of accessories, such as screw grids, is an ideal complement to the various installations.
… and the benefits it brings
These innovative features and great flexibility naturally bring many benefits to users of Lecureux screwdrivers. At IWC, we particularly appreciate the consistency of the tightening torque, which ensures consistently high quality, as well as the time saved during assembly operations. By choosing the right screwdriver heads, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to the screws. The traceability of operations is guaranteed by the storage of measurement data during production in an external database, leading to better understanding in the event of problems.
Finally, in terms of ergonomics, Lecureux screwdrivers are appreciated for their intuitive use, which requires no prior knowledge of watchmaking. Their safe and comfortable handling significantly reduces user stress. A benefit for em
ployee health, which is one of IWC’s top priorities.
IWC Schaffhausen and Lécureux: more than just a business relationship
IWC’s excellent relationship with Lécureux is more of a partnership than a simple client-supplier relationship. This close collaboration is the result, on the one hand, of the positive experience gained from the use of screwdrivers and other equipment such as height clearance measuring devices (gear clearance control) or needle adjustment machines. It also stems from the open-mindedness of the Biel-based company, which is always ready to seek innovation with IWC.
“I am thinking in particular of the joint development of a chronometry cell and the close cooperation that has accompanied it in recent years. New innovation projects and developments are also already planned. This reflects the same spirit of our respective companies, a creative and innovative spirit in pursuit of perfection,” concludes Jonathan Goerke.