We publish below a communiqué from the Goldsmiths' Association of Lombardy concerning the distribution of spare parts to independent watchmakers:
On 15 December 2010, the General Court of Luxembourg (Fourth Chamber) ruled at first instance in the case brought by the European Confederation of Watch Repairers (CEAHR) against the European Commission and requesting the annulment of the Decision of 10 July 2008 by which the Commission had ruled against the requests of independent repairers concerning the distribution of original watch parts. The Court granted CEAHR's request and ordered the annulment of the Commission's Decision. Since then, the European Commission has been studying the issue, looking into every aspect in contact with the operators on the ground. However, more than two years have passed and no decision has yet been taken on the matter.
The Goldsmiths' Association of Lombardy asks, on behalf of all associated artisans and traders and representing all Italian artisans and traders in the sector, that the matter be settled as soon as possible, bearing in mind that any decision unfavourable to watch repairers would inevitably lead to the closure of numerous artisanal and commercial enterprises.
The Goldsmiths' Association of Lombardy hopes that, at a time of serious economic crisis, the EU authorities will overcome their hesitations and decide once and for all on the issue in a clear and decisive manner in favour of a free and non-selective or arbitrary distribution of watch parts.
