During the years of crisis, since 1978 until 1991, Dr. Ernst Thomke was at the helm of the restructurings, firstly as CEO of ETA SA, then Ebauches SA, including a mandate as Administrator of ASUAG, and became SMH's first CEO in 1983, position that he held until 1991.
Dr. Ernst Thomke, previously CEO of Ebauches SA and ETA SA was appointed to head the newly established conglomerate as it first CEO.