Générale Ressorts takes another decisive step in the sustainable modernization of the watch movement with the creation of a lead-free barrel.
The main advantage of this creation is its essential compliance with the new European REACH regulations. By eliminating lead from the composition of the barrel, watch manufacturers can guarantee user safety and improve their ecological footprint.
The creation of this lead-free barrel involved extensive research and rigorous testing to select the most suitable alloy grades. It also involved adapting machines, turning tools and processes to work with these new materials, while guaranteeing the quality and durability of lead-free components. Optimization of galvanic treatment undercoats was included to ensure optimum adhesion, high-quality aesthetics and optimal protection against corrosion.
Thanks to synergies with Acrotec Group companies, Générale Ressorts has succeeded in producing lead-free barrels on a large scale, rather than just in small batches. These considerable efforts have been made over the last three years, demonstrating our ability to innovate while maintaining strict standards of quality and sustainability.
With the addition of the Bioflex spring, a revolutionary nitrided austenitic steel, Générale Ressorts has succeeded in designing a complete, durable, lead-free barrel. Bioflex also makes it possible to eliminate beryllium, another element targeted by the REACH standard, contained in the alloy of current springs. This represents a major advance for the watchmaking industry, offering products that are both safer and more respectful of the environment.