Editor’s Note
This article investigates the persistent opacity in the gold supply chain of the Swiss watch industry, highlighting the gap between public commitments to responsible sourcing and the practical challenges of achieving true traceability from mine to wrist.
A critical examination of the Swiss watch industry reveals significant gaps in the traceability of gold used in luxury timepieces. Despite global calls for responsible sourcing and stringent standards, the journey of gold from mine to wrist often remains opaque.
While frameworks for responsible gold sourcing exist, their implementation and verification across complex, multi-tiered supply chains present a formidable challenge. The industry faces pressure to move beyond mere certification towards full, verifiable chain-of-custody documentation.
This scrutiny extends to refining processes and the mingling of gold from various sources, which can further complicate efforts to ensure ethical provenance. The article calls for greater transparency, technological innovation in supply chain tracking, and stronger due diligence practices to safeguard the reputation of Swiss watchmaking.
