When a supplier is perceived as a true development partner
The major watch manufacturers must be able to rely on trusted suppliers to be able to develop exceptional products. The long-standing collaboration between IWC Schaffhausen and Lécureux in Bienne is a perfect example of a successful partnership. Interview with Jonathan Goerke, Department Manager Industrialisation Movement & Watch of the Schaffhausen-based company.
Biel-based Lécureux is a manufacturer of precision tools which, thanks to its 60 years of experience in the market, has acquired a great deal of technical know-how. The company’s bestseller, although it has diversified into various areas of assembly and automation, remains the screwdriver. “IWC’s industrialisation department is constantly striving to provide the best possible technical solution to its colleagues in the assembly departments, and in this respect, Lécureux offers us state-of-the-art technologies”, confirms Jonathan Goerke.
The advantages from IWC’s point of view…
As references in many watchmaking companies, Lécureux screwdrivers offer a series of advantages that allow them to stand out from the competition. Jonathan Goerke details some of them. “Firstly, flexibility: thanks to the multi-size and multi-torque screwdrivers, it is possible to use a single screwdriver on an entire assembly line.
Secondly, the various control units, such as the E-Screw, allow us to measure torques at any time with a display of the force curve and friction measurements. This unit tells us whether these curves are correct or not and thus offers the possibility of adapting the installed Lecureux screwdrivers according to the needs, whether they are ours or 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 are able to check and ensure the correct torque. Finally, the range of suitable 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 constant torque, which ensures continuous high quality and saves time in assembly operations. The choice of perfectly adapted screwing heads allows to reduce significantly the risks of damage on the screws. The traceability of operations is guaranteed by the storage of measurement data during production in an external database, which leads 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. This is a benefit to the health of the employees, which is one of the most important aspects of the
This is one of IWC’s top priorities.
IWC Schaffhausen and Lécureux: more than just a business relationship
IWC’s very good relationship with Lécureux is more of a partnership than a simple customer-supplier relationship. This close collaboration is the result of the positive experience gained from the use of the screwdrivers and other equipment such as the height clearance measuring devices (ebat control) or the needle adjustment machines. On the other hand, it is due to 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 search of perfection,” concludes Jonathan Goerke.