Museum of Watchmaking and Bar Turning

Discover the museum, a true treasure trove of the industrial and social history of the Arve Valley. Trace the evolution of the watchmaking skills of 18th-century farmers through to the emergence of precision turning during the Industrial Revolution.

With its unique history and collections, the Museum of Watchmaking and Bar Turning is well worth a visit. Founded at the dawn of the 20th century by the National School of Watchmaking in Cluses, the museum had a dual purpose: to collect antique timepieces (the oldest piece dates back to the 16th century) and to preserve the legacy of the local industry.

Now located in the Espace Carpano & Pons, a former industrial site, the museum also traces the history of the School of Watchmaking, notably by showcasing a unique collection of escapement models manufactured in Cluses.

Themed guided tours, dramatized tours, educational workshops, and temporary exhibitions are offered regularly, allowing everyone to discover, learn, and marvel at the masterpieces housed in this museum.

For school groups, from preschool through high school, we offer customized activities in small groups. We recommend dividing your classes beforehand to create smaller groups, making it easier to explore our workshops and collections. Adapted workshops are also available for school groups with students who have disabilities.

The museum holds the “Tourisme et Handicap” certification, and our team is fully trained to accommodate visitors with disabilities.

From September 1, 2023, to June 29, 2024.

From July 1 to August 31, 2024
Reduced rate: €3 (under 26, large families, job seekers and RSA recipients, people with disabilities, holders of: the loisirs card, CEZAM card, or COS Cluses card.)
Adult: €5
Adult groups: €3 (without a guide, groups of 10 or more).

Group rate applies to groups of 10 or more.

Free admission on the first Sunday of every month (October through June)

Free admission (upon presentation of valid proof):
children under 12 accompanied by an adult, members of the museum association and the AAAE, Haute-Savoie tourist ID card, ICOM card, Empreintes Pass, Vacances Pass, press card, tour guides, interpretive guides, Savoie Mont Blanc heritage guides, group leaders, promotional days (Heritage Day, Museum Night, Tourism and Disability Days)

Guided Tours:
For groups of 10 or more, €2 per visitor + a €35 guide fee.
For groups of more than 25 people, two guides are required, for a total fee of €70 + €2 per visitor.

Pets allowed

Pets not allowed