Leading European jewellers and watch specialists from six different countries have joined forces to provide a counterweight to international chains in a time of rapidly changing market conditions, and to set international quality standards for the benefit of their customers.

The membership list of the Maastricht Group reads like a “who is who” of prominent European specialists in jewellery and timepieces. It comprises twelve top retailers based in Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Austria, Sweden or Switzerland. All of them are leading owner-run businesses.

Preamble

There has always been something intensely fascinating and mystical about the art of jewellers, goldsmiths and horologists, while their products are universally known to symbolise lasting value. The unique character of artisan craftwork has traditionally

influenced the identity of this trade. Even as electronic timepieces are becoming increasingly popular, renewed appreciation of exquisite watches and clocks has paved

the way for a remarkable comeback of artisan watch-making in particular.

The growing pace of change in the markets is placing high demands on quality retailers in the classic sense. Their ability to maintain top standards in the future will depend on international cooperation with like-minded colleagues. The members of the Maastricht Group work together in various ways, such as by exchanging experience on a regular basis, realising synergy effects, and taking joint training initiatives for the young generation.

The declared aim of the Maastricht Group consists in taking action to sustain the art of refined jewellery and quality watch-making. Thereby the members intend to strengthen customer confidence in the their businesses, many of which look back on a tradition of several generations.

“One for all – all for one”: The Maastricht Pledge

 In October 2009, the independent European jewellers and watch specialists of the Maastricht Group met in Maastricht to sign a joint declaration reviving the traditional collegial spirit of medieval goldsmiths’ guilds in a modern European setting. „One for all – all for one“ – a saying that is attributed to d,Artagnan the famous musketeer, has a special meaning for the european culture and in particular for this group of independent jewellers. Based on the simple principle of mutual assistance, every customer of a Maastricht Group business can now turn to any other member of the Group for warranty and service. In a Europe without borders the Maastricht pledge shall contribute to a new way of confidence. A simple formula and a great idea.

The promise from Maastricht is given by a group of leading jewellers and watch specialists who feel committed to excellent craftmanship as well as the concerns of the worlds strongest watch and jewellery brands.