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Swiss watch exports climb in September

Swiss watch exports grew in value in September by 8.5%, although unit numbers dropped by 4.3%. The value of imports to the UK was up by 33.2% in September 2013, compared to September 2012.

According to the latest statistics released by the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry (FH), the value of watch exports in September was CHF 1.9 billion (£1.3 bn), which exceeds last year’s value for the month by 8.5%. This was said to be the highest monthly increase since January.

While steel, platinum and gold watches contributed significantly to the increase of the value of exports, the total number of timepieces fell by just over 100,000 units, or 4.3%. The FH pointed out that the category of other metals and steel timepieces "clearly influenced" this downward trend. Other metal watches were down in unit terms by 1.9% in September, while steel watches experienced a drop of 2.6%.

The report also stated that since the beginning of the year Switzerland has exported one million fewer watches than in the period January to September 2012.

Swiss exports to the UK were up by 33.2% in September, compared to last year. The value was CHF 81.5 million (£56.6 m).

The FH said that many markets ended the month on a positive note. Hong Kong and the USA have shown signs of recovery in recent months. The statements added that China "continued to lose ground, albeit to a minor extent, and has seen its situation improve since the start of the year".

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