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Definition
COSC is the acronym for “Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres,” the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute. It is an independent organization that tests and certifies the accuracy and precision of chronometers, mainly mechanical watches, in Switzerland. A watch certified by COSC is recognized as a “chronometer,” a title that attests to its high precision.
Origin
COSC was founded in 1973, resulting from the merger of several previous testing bodies. Its creation was motivated by the need for a uniform and rigorous standard for the certification of chronometers in Switzerland, a country known for its high-quality watch industry.
Use in the Watch Industry
In the watch industry, COSC certification is a seal of excellence and precision. Watches with this certification are highly valued by consumers and collectors. Watch brands often submit their high-end models to this certification to highlight their quality and precision.
Examples
Brands like Rolex, Omega, and Breitling often have models that are COSC-certified. For example, many models in the Rolex Oyster Perpetual line are COSC-certified chronometers.
Synonyms
There are no exact synonyms for COSC, but terms like “certified chronometer” or “precision certification” are often used in related contexts.
Related Terms
- Chronometer: A watch that has undergone rigorous testing and received certification for its accuracy.
- Precision: The ability of a watch to keep time with minimal error.
Tips
When looking for a watch with COSC certification, check the watch documentation to ensure its authenticity. This certification is an indicator of quality and precision.
Fun Facts
Only a small percentage of all watches produced in Switzerland are certified by COSC annually, highlighting the exclusivity and prestige of this certification. The COSC testing process lasts 15 days and includes various conditions and temperatures to ensure the accuracy of the watch in different situations.