KIF is an anti-shock system made by Kif Parechoc, SA. The company was founded in 1944 and is headquartered in Vallée-de-Joux, Switzerland.
Kif is one of the world’s largest and most famous producers of wristwatch anti-shock devices. It is the biggest competitor to Incabloc.
“Pare-choc” is a French term, translating to bumper or “shock-absorber” in English.
KIF is a removable Swiss made shock absorber found in a wide range of watches, and was most notably used in Rolex watches until they invented their own. Below is an example of a KIF spring in a Tudor watch:
KIF also produces wheel trains, barrels, screws, pinions, and other movement components.
In KIF Parechoc’s own words:
“Shock absorbers are our flagship products. This high-precision unit protects the core of mechanical watch movements. Our experience in the index assembly field has led us to be chosen by the most prestigious watchmakers to develop and manufacture fine adjustment systems resorting to different concepts.”
KIF currently lists 3 types of shock absorbers on their site:
- Elastor
- Ultraflex
- Trior
However, there are a few more KIF shock absorbers available:
- Flector
- Satellor
- Duofix
- Minifix
- Duobil
How to remove KIF shock absorbers?
This video shows a macro view of removing a KIF anti-shock spring:
Additional Resources:
- More wristwatch anti-shock devices
- Kif official site here
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