Our Manchester Workshop
Every Crown & Calibre watch passes through our King Street workshop — assembled by hand, regulated by master watchmakers and tested before it reaches your wrist.
A workshop built for quality
Since 2011, we have operated from 28 King Street in the heart of Manchester. Our workshop combines traditional horological techniques with modern testing equipment, allowing us to maintain complete control over every stage of assembly and regulation.
We do not simply import finished watches. Each timepiece is cased, regulated and inspected on-site by our team of qualified horologists under the direction of Margaret Cross, our Master Watchmaker.
From movement to finished watch
Each watch follows a rigorous seven-stage process before leaving our workshop.
Movement inspection
Every Swiss calibre is inspected upon arrival. We verify serial numbers, check for transit damage and confirm specifications against our quality checklist.
Casing and sealing
The movement is fitted into its case with new gaskets, crown seals and crystal. Water resistance is verified on applicable models using calibrated pressure equipment.
Dial and hands
Dials are inspected for imperfections before hands are fitted with precision tools. Lume application and alignment are checked under magnification.
Hand regulation
Our watchmakers regulate each movement over a minimum of 48 hours across multiple positions, adjusting to within COSC-equivalent tolerances where applicable.
Functional testing
Chronograph functions, bezels, crowns and bracelets are tested for smooth operation. Power reserve and amplitude are logged for every piece.
Final inspection
A senior watchmaker conducts a final visual and functional inspection. Any piece failing our standards is returned to the bench for correction.
Registration and dispatch
Each watch receives a unique serial number, certificate of authenticity and warranty card before being prepared for collection or delivery.
Tools of the trade
Timing machines
Swiss-made Witschi and Greiner Vibrograf timing machines measure rate, amplitude and beat error across six positions.
Pressure testing
Calibrated water resistance testers confirm ratings from 50 m to 200 m depending on model, with results recorded per serial number.
Optical inspection
High-magnification loupes and digital microscopes allow detailed inspection of dial finishing, hand alignment and case polishing.
Workshop tours by appointment
We welcome clients and trade partners to visit our King Street workshop. See our watchmakers at work and discuss bespoke configurations in person.