The Inside Story of "Swiss Made" Watches
Ever wondered what lies behind the allure of "Swiss Made" watches? Let's peel back the curtain and uncover the truth about this prestigious label.
Contrary to popular belief, most "Swiss Made" timepieces aren't entirely manufactured in Switzerland. Certain Asian manufacturers contribute components, and even entire models, to well-known "Swiss" brands. It's a well-kept secret that blurs the lines of authenticity.
But why does this matter? Isn't Swiss craftsmanship still unrivaled? While Switzerland has a storied watchmaking legacy, the landscape is changing. Asian manufacturers have made remarkable strides in quality control, offering high-quality materials at a more affordable rate.
Let's face it, the allure of "Swiss Made" has been bolstered by marketing and tradition. Yet, with more transparent information, we can make informed choices about our watch purchases.
Consider this: movements like the ETA 2824 and Miyota 9039 are somewhat comparable in performance, yet the price disparity can be significant.
Do you believe in the mystique of "Swiss Made," or are you open to exploring alternatives?
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The Miyota 9039 is ~$150 whereas the ETA (Sellita SW200) is about $180. Wholesale is $60 vs $90. They are both good movements with little price difference.
There can be no doubt "Swiss Made" has become more in question. Like everyone else not in Asia, I think the Swiss are trying to hold on to the crown so to speak. This is the path they chose, at least it is monitored and there are rules even if they are somewhat, uh creative.
If I like it (and can afford it), I’ll buy it, regardless of where it comes from. I’ve stayed away from Chinese and Russian watches, but that’s more of my own personal reasons than anything else, unrelated to the watches themselves.
Swiss Made might not mean everything was made in Switzerland, but it still means something.
When a watch has Swiss Made on the dial it is almost guaranteed to be built to a high standard, with quality components.
Great post
Very informative
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