Five years ago, the Garage de la Tranchée was converted into a cultural and educational centre named the Espace TSM. To mark its fifth anniversary, we take a look back at the building’s history, which is closely intertwined with the region’s watchmaking heritage.
Over the years, the building located at 44 Rue des Musées, formerly 43 Rue Jaquet-Droz, in La Chaux-de-Fonds has been the site of a stable, a storeroom, watchmaking workshops, a newsagent and a garage. Before TSM Insurance Company began renovating the building, you could still see the words “Garage de la Tranchée” on its Rue du Midi side.
Under the supervision of architect Pierre Studer, the former garage has become a venue available for hire by companies and non-profit organisations based in the local area and beyond. It has 100m2 of space that can host your meetings, conferences, receptions and exhibitions, and accommodate between 75 and 100 people depending on the layout. With cutting-edge multimedia facilities and a semi-professional kitchen, the building has everything you need to cater to a refined clientele.
A full-service venue
TSM wants to make an active contribution to the promotion of business and culture in this watchmaking city, which deserves to be better known. The Espace TSM team will help you organise your event from start to finish - welcoming your guests, running the event itself and cleaning up afterwards - providing the tailored service that is TSM's hallmark.
The venue is very well located, close to the train station and the car park of the nearby shopping centre. If you would like more information or a quote, scan the QR code below. Please note that the Espace TSM is not available for private parties.
A 52-metre frieze
When TSM and Riccardo Pagni met, they hit on the idea of installing a frieze around the building. The theme of the frieze arose naturally from both parties’ desire to share humanist values.
Since TSM was founded in 1921 by a group of 17 watchmakers, the work also shows the company's gratitude and commitment to the Métropole horlogère, and to the craftspeople who work in it. At 52 metres long, the frieze is the longest sculpture in La Chaux-de-Fonds.