Exports of Swiss timepieces and watch movements declined by 12.4% overall to about 1.9 billion Swiss francs ($2.2 billion) in value, with China's imports down 50%. The figures lay bare the challenging environment for Swiss watchmakers as consumers around the world cut back on pricey timepieces after a post-pandemic boom. Overall exports have fallen by 2.7% in the first nine months of 2024 compared with the same period the previous year.
If we exclude those brands, the decline in Swiss watch exports would be significantly more pronounced. The Federation and a group representing horology workers warned of a significant drop in demand that's hurting Swiss watch brands and putting jobs at risk. They called on the Swiss National Bank to take steps to weaken the strong franc.
Some major brands are already using the government supported 'short-time' work program to furlough employees as orders drop. Sowind Group brands Girard-Perregaux and Ulysse Nardin have put about 15% of workers on furlough, the company's chief executive officer told Bloomberg News. Suppliers of components - such as watch cases, dials and bracelets - are struggling in particular.
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