There is another guide that includes a glossary, but his definition of
the term "Swiss Made" is not quite accurate. He states that 50%
of the components must be manufactured in Switzerland, but according
the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry (fhs.ch), the case, crown,
buckle, dial (face), strap, nor bracelet need to be manufactured in
Switzerland for the watch to be legally called "Swiss Made" AND the
movement must include at least one component that accounts for at least
50% of the value of the movement and the movement must be
assembled in Switzerland. A Taiwanese movement that costs $50
could sent to Switzerland and then assembled in Switzerland while
including one $50 screw that was manufactured in Switzerland and be
assembled while using a Japanese dial, Chinese hands, and Mexican
leather strap, etc., and the watch can be called "Swiss Made"
legally. Many of the Swiss brands utilize this definition of the
term to better their bottom lines, but then denigrate the same
countries from which many of their components are manufactured so that
they can maintain prestige and higher prices.
Guide created: 10/06/05 (updated 09/19/07)


Thank you for voting. If your vote meets our 