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«Swiss Made» watches – That’s what it’s all about

Tanja Lehmann
31.7.2017
Translation: Eva Francis

Swiss manufacturers are one of the big players of the watch industry. «Swiss Made» sparks the interest of enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Everyone who values technical finesse loves Swiss watches. How come they are so important in the watchmaking world? Why are Swiss watches so appealing to enthusiasts? Our five facts about «Swiss Made» will give you some insights.

Five facts about «Swiss Made» watches

Fact 1:

«Swiss Made» is a label used to indicate that a product was made in Switzerland. It stands for excellent quality, superior craftsmanship, noble and timeless design, precision and durability. Switzerland has been representing this image for more than 200 years and is amongst the most important manufacturing countries of watches.

Fact 2:

The use of the «Swiss Made» label for watches and clockworks is covered by an ordinance of the Federal Council dated 29 December 1971 and was revised in 2013. To comply with this ordinance, at least 60% of the production costs need to be attributable to operations carried out in Switzerland. This includes research, development and assembling. Transportation costs, packaging costs and raw materials aren’t included.

Fact 3:

Swiss watches aren’t only popular collectable items, they’re also considered an investment. Some models are so hard to find that it can take years until you get a chance to purchase one. Watches from Rolex or Breitling for instance are predominantly produced by hand.

Fact 4:

To date, Swiss mechanical clockworks, manual watches and quartz clocks remain fascinating. Manufacturers haven’t stuck with their proven technology, but have gone with the times and evolved. Today, there are Swiss watches with touchscreen and electronic functions.

Fact 5:

«Made in Switzerland», «Fabriqué en Suisse» or «Hergestellt in der Schweiz» were too long to engrave onto the dial. This is why Swiss watchmakers label their watches with «Swiss Made». What a simple way to make sure a premium-quality watch can be recognised at first glance.

Typical Swiss watches

Cornavin Downtown Sports (Chronograph, Analogue wristwatch, 44 mm)
Wristwatches

Cornavin Downtown Sports

Chronograph, Analogue wristwatch, 44 mm

Victorinox 241586.1 (Analogue wristwatch, Swiss made, 40 mm)
Wristwatches

Victorinox 241586.1

Analogue wristwatch, Swiss made, 40 mm

Tissot Prs 516 Chronograph (Analogue wristwatch, Swiss made, 42 mm)
Wristwatches

Tissot Prs 516 Chronograph

Analogue wristwatch, Swiss made, 42 mm

Certina DS-8 Chronograph Moon Phase (Analogue wristwatch, Swiss made, 42 mm)
Wristwatches

Certina DS-8 Chronograph Moon Phase

Analogue wristwatch, Swiss made, 42 mm

Swatch Dreamnight Golden (Analogue wristwatch, Chronograph, 40 mm)
Wristwatches

Swatch Dreamnight Golden

Analogue wristwatch, Chronograph, 40 mm

See all watches

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Tanja Lehmann
Senior Category Business Manager
tanja.lehmann@digitecgalaxus.ch

Friends, family, cats and good wine are my lifeblood.

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