(Lausen/Switzerland, 24 March 2011) - RONDA adds new 3500 series to its "Startech" line.
The launch of the "Startech" chronographs dates back to 2003. Today the 12½'''-sized 4000-5000 series extend to a dozen different chronographs and four multifunctions. So what innovations can watch manufacturers look forward to in 2011? RONDA is presenting innovative watch movements with stop functions this spring that are new in more than one respect: The "Startech" 3500 series includes the first-ever Swiss Made quartz chronographs with counters at the 6-9-12 o'clock or the 6-12 o'clock positions. The new approach will enable manufacturers to supplement their "classic-look" watches with further models of a more innovative and unusual design. With a size of 10½ x 11½''' the 3500 series of movements has also been specifically developed for use in elegant ladies' watches, rectangular cases and men's watch models. This is achieved by placing the opposing counters 7.5 mm from the centre, giving sizeable scope for the dial's design. In addition to the date function, both movements also feature a small second. The 3540.D caliber boasts three eyes and separate 30-minute and tenth-of-a-second / 10-hour counters, while the 3520.D caliber offers two eyes with a dual-chronograph counter for 30-minute and 12-hour periods.

The 2010 business year

RONDA initially benefited only moderately from the broader economic recovery seen in the course of 2010. But after a quiet start, the situation rapidly improved in the second half of the year. The swift recovery in demand for more complex products such as chronographs and multifunctions was particularly encouraging here. A further plus was the recent completion of the 7000 and 8000 series: with a wide selection of multifunctions, retrogrades and chronographs, these series offer customers today a highly attractive range of XXL-format watch products.

The Ronda Time Center, which is located in Southern Switzerland, can also look back on a positive 2010. This RONDA subsidiary serves a global customer base for whom it assembles watches under the prestigious Swiss Made label. Here, too, steadily-growing demand ensured that production capacities were well utilized, especially in the second six months.

Outlook for 2011

RONDA is well satisfied with its sales results for the first quarter of 2011. The upward trend is clearly persisting and promises further positive developments for the months ahead, in both revenue and product mix terms.