Neuchâtel Observatory, Astronomical observatory in Neuchâtel, Switzerland.

Neuchâtel Observatory is a cantonal astronomical and chronometric observatory founded on 18 May 1858, located on the Mail hill in Neuchâtel. Its building, completed in 1860 under architect Hans Rychner, housed a meridian circle ordered from Ertel & Sohn and astronomical clocks by Winnerl and Sheperd. The observatory's services closed in 2007 and were taken over by other institutions; its telescope is now used by local amateur astronomers.

Founded in 1858 and formally opened in 1860 under Adolphe Hirsch's leadership, the observatory became a major research center in Switzerland. Its work contributed significantly to the country's scientific development and international astronomical knowledge.

The observatory's name long included "chronometric" because it rated watch movements submitted by regional makers. From 1865 an annual chronometry competition rewarded the best. Certified movements received a Bulletin de Marche signed by the director and a chronometer reference number. The building is listed as a class A Swiss cultural property of national significance.

The observatory stands on the Mail hill in Neuchâtel, at Rue de l'Observatoire 52, and is listed as a class A Swiss cultural property of national significance. Its services closed in 2007 and were taken over by other institutions, so there are no guided tours of the research spaces; the building is seen from outside. Its telescope is now used in a historical fashion by local amateur astronomers.

The observatory gained international recognition for testing and certifying chronometers, the precise timekeepers essential for ship navigation and ocean travel. This rigorous certification work made Neuchâtel a world hub for accurate timekeeping and influenced the growth of the city's famous watchmaking tradition.