MES for watch production

Digital testing software for watch manufacturers: quality assurance & traceability

Many manufacturers of high-quality watches face the same challenge: maximum precision, documented quality and complete traceability of every single product. In this case study, we show how a leading watch manufacturer has digitally transformed its production by using SCIIL quality assurance and traceability software.

Manufakturzentrum Merishausen August 2018 Headquaters Schaffhausen

SCIIL success story @ IWC Schaffhausen

Together with SCIIL, IWC introduced an integrated CAQ/MES system. The initial situation:

High inspection effort during assembly and end-of-line inspection, plus the requirement for complete documentation for each serial number. Previous paper-based processes led to media disruptions and made it difficult to track complaints.

All existing processes were re-evaluated in joint project workshops and transferred to a digital overall system. The solution went live within just six months.

Quality assurance during production:

Areas of application:

Final assembly (marriage of movement and case)

Final inspection (function and aspect test)

Rework and repair

Process control and data analysis

Core functions:

Serial number-based traceability of all watches and components

Digital test planning and automatic reporting

Graphical recording

Integration into existing systems (e.g. SAP)

Conclusion: Digital perfection in the art of watchmaking

Thanks to SCIIL, IWC has been able to make its quality processes more efficient, transparent and sustainable. The case study thus shows that even in a traditional manufactory, digitalization is the key to not only maintaining perfection, but to further expanding it.

The switch to SCIIL brought IWC several advantages:

  • + 15 % efficiency in the final inspection
  • Shorter throughput times and faster error corrections
  • Improved data quality for analyses and optimizations
  • Less effort thanks to automated reporting

Tracking & traceability specifically for the watch industry

Tradition meets digitalization

The watch industry is characterized by centuries-old craftsmanship and maximum precision. But it is precisely in this venerable environment that digital quality assurance and traceability software unfolds its full potential. Modern digital inspection software for watch manufacturers complements craftsmanship with automated traceability, real-time transparency and efficient processes. This gives quality assurance in watch manufacturing an immense boost – and the combination of tradition and digitalization secures the company’s leading position in global competition in the long term.

With SCIIL quality assurance and traceability software for watch production, tests were digitized, causes recorded and all data assigned to a serial number. This creates end-to-end transparency – from the individual component to the finished watch.

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    With the SCIIL solution, we were able to standardize our test procedures, digitally map process steps and ensure complete traceability. Instead of many isolated solutions, we now have a common system that enables us to have more efficient processes, better data quality and faster reactions to deviations..”

    Joachim Maurer,
    Tenneco Director Quality Powertrain

    TENNECO customer reference on MES, traceability, CAQ and production data collection

    We finally wanted ONE solution for ALL production steps. The optimized processes in the final inspection bring about 15 percent efficiency gains.”

    Ulrich Albicker,
    Department Manager Quality Improvement

    Kundenreferenz von IWC zu Endkontrolle und Traceability in der Uhrenindustrie

    IWC relies on SCIIL Q-TRACE in final assembly to track watches consistently by serial number, document visual and functional tests and efficiently control rework. The result: greater transparency, measurable quality improvement and efficiency gains in final inspection, as well as seamless traceability.

    Leadec Management Central Europe

    “The intelligent tracking solution is web-based and creates cross-process transparency regarding the use and whereabouts of individual packages.

    Gerd Brandl,
    Key Account Manager Technical Solutions

    In the semiconductor industry, where sensitive precision components involve high material costs and production is subject to significant time pressure, controlling and tracing material flows is more important than ever. The smart SCOTT logistics solution, developed jointly by Leadec and SCIIL AG, provides the required transparency and control.

    “The SCIIL eLPA system is easy to use and impresses with its functionality. What is particularly important for me as a plant manager is that I have online access and a complete overview of our audits at all times – whether I’m in the office or on the road.

    Jürgen Müller,
    Plant Manager Adient Saarlouis

    Adient Saarlouis was the first plant in the Group to successfully pilot SCIIL eLPA. In the complex seat assembly process with numerous customer requirements, daily LPAs and high OEM pressure, the tool ensures a clear structure, simple implementation and maximum transparency – a must when quality has to be assured on a daily basis. Today, SCIIL eLPA is standard and runs in all Adient plants worldwide.

    “If only we had introduced SCIIL eLPA earlier – today it almost runs itself with process audits and is really well received by the team.

    Daniel Zimmermann,
    Global Commodity Buyer

    As a global automotive supplier with over 100 locations and the highest quality requirements, MAHLE needs a system that maps daily LPAs efficiently, transparently and uniformly worldwide. Manual planning and evaluation was error-prone and time-consuming – with SCIIL eLPA, a centralized system was introduced that automates planning, makes deviations immediately visible and structures the processes across all locations. This not only increases audit quality, but also ensures the necessary acceptance among users.

    “With SCIIL CAQ & TRACE, we have created uniform standards worldwide – and can react much faster. This brings more quality, more transparency and fits in perfectly with our sustainability approach.

    Johann Trischbergerr,
    COO Olymp Bezner

    Kundenreferenz von OLYMP zur MES-gestützten Produktionssteuerung in der Textilindustrie

    OLYMP uses SCIIL CAQ & TRACE to control complex inspection processes in shirt production – from incoming goods inspection to end-of-line inspection. Special inspection methods and individually defined sampling logics are also used, which have been precisely adapted to the requirements of textile production. Bidirectional integration with the ERP system ensures consistent data flows. Data is recorded directly on the line – mobile, convenient and intuitive. A strong example of successful CAQ integration in the fashion industry.