Lhe project “Les Métiers du Temps | Time Arts (MTTA)” is now recognized as a research infrastructure of national importance by the Confederation. A grant of CHF 1.6 million will be allocated over four years to this project led by MICROCITY with the involvement of numerous players in the watchmaking field. This step is decisive for innovation and the influence of Swiss and Neuchâtel watchmaking heritage.
The Federal Department of the Economy, Education and Research (DEFR) awarded the project “Les Métiers du Temps | Time Arts (MTTA) » a grant of CHF 1.6 million. Allocated over a period of four years (2025-2028), this important support confirms the status of MTTA as a research infrastructure of national importance, under Article 15, paragraph 3, letter c of the Federal Law on encouraging research and innovation (LERI),
The main watchmaking groups but also research and development institutes as well as subcontractors and representatives of the artistic crafts have joined forces with this project led by MICROCTIY, thus underlining the importance of its unique positioning in the crafts professions. art for watchmaking and fine jewelry. Convinced that this initiative will strengthen and perpetuate the leadership as well as the specificity of the Swiss watchmaking ecosystem, the Neuchâtel cantonal government has financially supported this project since its launch.
This grant of funding will make it possible to strengthen research and training in the watchmaking professions, to develop collaborations with academic institutions and innovative companies, but also to preserve and transmit valuable know-how, while integrating the latest technological advances.
A unique link between tradition and cutting-edge technologies
The MTTA project will combine industrial heritage and innovation by bringing together large, small and medium-sized businesses, start-ups and research institutions into the same collaborative ecosystem. From 2028, MTTA will join the “HDV7” building located at Rue de l’Hôtel-de-Ville 7 in Le Locle, a space designed by MICROCITY and designed to encourage synergies between the academic world and industrial players. This new dynamic environment will promote innovation, applied research and strengthen close collaboration with all players in the world of watchmaking, the HE-ARC and the Neuchâtel Professional Center (CPNE).
Thanks to this grant, MTTA will continue to play a central role in promoting technical and watchmaking know-how, thus contributing to the dynamism and excellence of the region and Switzerland.
Swiss
