Just beyond the Joux Valley (about another half hour from La Chaux-de-Fonds), sits Biel, home to the Omega museum, and an absolute must for watch-history buffs. Omega, the official timekeeper of the Olympics and the choice of James Bond, has had so many important horological moments, it is hard to track them all, and, as the watch chosen by NASA for Apollo missions, its Speedmaster (above) remains the only watch ever worn on the moon. The first Omega in space, and one worn on the second moon landing, are here in the museum, along with Lawrence of Arabia's pocket watch, and most importantly in the watch world, the first minute-repeater wristwatch ever made, from 1892, capable of chiming the time, to the minute, at the push of a lever.

To see such watches being made by hand is to witness the blending of tradition and old-fashioned craftsmanship with the finest modern workplaces - something that both the ardent fan and the least-­knowledgeable visitor can enjoy equally. But be forewarned, witnessing the creation of these timepieces will only make you want one all the more.


IF YOU GO...
GETTING THERE AND AROUND
The Geneva airport is very close to the city center, with an efficient rail link that runs several times an hour. Downtown is compact, and much of it can be seen and explored on foot or by taxi. However, despite the highly regarded Swiss rail system, mountains guard the valleys of the Jura, and you need a car to explore the region. For this reason, the best time to visit is spring through fall, before the snow falls.

MUSEUMS AND FACTORY TOURS
The larger museums are open to the public on a regular basis, though most attractions in the area are closed on Sundays. These include:

Espace Horloger (011-41-21-845-75-45,
www.espacehorloger.ch)