The Swiss luxury industry continues growing despite the global economic slowdown resulting from the new Covid-19 pandemic. Switzerland is one of the best producers of luxury products in the world. In this article, we shall discuss some of the top luxury brands in the country as well as the Davos economic forum in brief. 

Leading Swiss Luxury Watch Brands

Currently, many of the luxury watches sold across the world come from Switzerland. Read on to understand some of the leading Swiss watch brands that have stood the test of time.

·         Patek Philippe

This luxury Swiss watch brand was established in 1852. Its watches feature sophisticated mechanics and classic styling. Patek Philippe men’s watches are elegant, unique, and have been worn by the high and mighty across the globe. They come with an extraordinary signature style, and the manufacturer has maintained consistent promotional campaigns over the years. 

·         Audemars Piguet

Edward-Auguste Piguet and Jules-Louis Audemars launched Audemars Piguet in 1875. So prevalent is this brand such that some other brands use their movements. The manufacturer produces up to 36,000 luxury timepieces annually.

Over the years, Audemars Piguet has gained popularity for creating some of the best stainless steel case sports watches. The company produced its first prestigious steel sports watch in 1972, which was named the Royal Oak. Audemars Piguet would later create the brand new oversized watch dubbed the Royal Oak Offshore in 1993.

·         Ulysse Nardin

This Swiss luxury watches manufacturing company was founded in 1846 and has been in operation ever since. Apart from wristwatches, Ulysse Nardin specializes in producing writing tools and accessories. This manufacturer produces high-quality products using unique products. Ulysse Nardin is also popularly known for its craftsmanship and modernization when it comes to creating watches. 

·         Rolex

No Swiss luxury watch brands would be complete without mentioning Rolex, a company whose main branch is in Geneva. It is one of the most common luxury watch brands in the world. Rolex is not only internationally coveted and acclaimed, but it is also famed for its timeless functionality and form.

Rolex watches feature classic designs and are widespread among the young and old in society. The Rolex brand has even been among the most dominant brands in the world on the Forbes list. The brand is also a leading single luxury watch brand producing up to 2,000 watches every day. Some of the famous Rolex models include the GMT-master and the Rolex Lady Datejust 179174.

·         Vacheron Constantin

Vacheron Constantin is among the oldest luxury watch manufacturers. Jean-Marc Vacheron founded the company in Geneva, Switzerland, in 1755. This fine watches brand is an associate of the Richemont Group, and their watches are a reflection of their culture.

Vacheron Constantin watches come with accurate details, classic styling, and shapes that make them unique. Many famous historical figures have worn watches from this brand. These include Harry Truman, Napoleon Bonaparte, and Pope Pius IX. 

·         Hublot

Hublot was established in 1980 and has evolved to become one of the most popular brands in the luxury watch industry. The manufacturer boasts various award-winning collections, evidence that better things will come in the future. 

·         TAG Heuer

Apart from watches, TAG Heuer produces mobile phones, eyewear, and accessories. The manufacturer’s name is abbreviated from Techniques d’Avant Garde. Heuer refers to Edouard Heuer, the founder.

Watches have evolved over the years, with manufacturers experimenting with diverse models. However, TAG Heuer watches still have a sports-like appearance. The manufacturer has various memorable watches and chronographs available with a touch of premium functionality and technological appeal.

·         Breitling

Breitling, a Swiss luxury watch manufacturing company was established in 1884, is popularly known for creating precise and durable watches. Breitling watches come with aviation-related features, many of which are used by fighter pilots. The manufacturer has also designed excellent aviator chronographs with multiple functionalities, which are activated over a revolving bezel. Breitling is one of the most innovative and versatile watch brands. 

·         Jaeger-LeCoultre

Jaeger-LeCoultre is a Swiss luxury watch brand whose timepieces come with sophisticated detailing and unique faces. The brand that was established in 1833 has maintained exemplary clarity and innovation, which was their initial visualization for the brand. Jaeger-LeCoultre watches feature appealing classic components and you can wear them for many years. 

·         A.Lange & Sohne

A.Lange & Sohne is a watchmaking company that Ferdinand Adolph Lange founded in 1845. Watches from this brand come with mechanical movements. Their cases feature unique tons of white gold, rose gold, platinum, and yellow gold. A.Lange & Sohne is famed for its superior quality and admirable styling. 

·         Panerai

The first Panerai branch was set up in Florence, Italy, in 1860. The company opened its doors in Switzerland in 2002. Panerai boasts an international clientele and is famed for simplistic design, numeral elements, and bold styles. Panerai watches are available in different designs, and customers get a two-year service warranty upon purchase. 

·         Omega

Omega is one of the most elegant Swiss luxury watch brands today. This watch manufacturing company has been distributing watches to horophiles (people who are obsessed with timekeeping gadgets) for more than 170 years.

Omega watches have traversed the North Pole, been used by submarines deep in the ocean, and initiated into space. Today, Omega enjoys a great reputation as one of the best brands across the world. Omega was established in Louis Brandt & Fil, a small village in Switzerland, in 1848.

The company founded the ‘Labrador’, its inaugural series-assembled calibre in 1885. They would later introduce a minute-repeating timepiece in 1892, while Omega calibre was launched in 1894. The immense success of the latter prompted the company to change its name, to the Omega Watch Company.

This company has evolved over the years, with its watches breaking various precision records. For example, during the Geneva observatory trials held in 1931, the company got six nomination positions. It emerged first in all of them, something that earned it the Olympics of watchmaking nickname.

Omega produced Speedmaster Professional, the first watch that Buzz Aldrin wore on his wrist on the moon. To date, many astronauts from the United States will not wear any other watch. Many famous people like Elvis Presley and John F. Kennedy have worn Omega watches. These watches come with a timeless design and offer incredible performance.

Omega is Greek for perfection and greatness, which best describes the watches. If you are looking for a superior quality luxury timepiece, then Omega will serve you right.

·         Tissot SA

Tissot is a Swiss luxury watchmaking company that Charles-Félicien Tissot founded together with his son Charles-Émile Tissot in 1853. The company has been a branch of the Swatch group since 1983 and offers better accessibility to potential customers. Tissot SA watches are affordable and durable. Currently, Tissot SA is struggling to beat the rising popularity of smart and automatic watches. 

·         IWC Schaffhausen

International Watch Company, operating as IWC Schaffhausen is a Swiss luxury watchmaker situated in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. Florentine Ariosto Jones, an American watchmaker founded the company in 1868. IWC has been a branch of the Richemont Swiss group since 2000, and its watches offer unique functionality and aesthetics. The brand boasts spectacular credentials in sustainability, and the brand has an exceptional reputation for producing elegant timepieces. 

·         Cartier

Louis-François Cartier founded Cartier in 1847 in Paris. While Cartier still has its headquarters in Paris, it is an entirely owned branch of the Richemont Swiss group. This luxury Swiss watchmaking company is one of the most recognized manufacturers in the world. 

·         Chopard

Chopard is famed for its excellent and unique Swiss luxury watches. Swiss watchmaker Louis-Ulysse Chopard founded the company in 1860. Chopard watches are easily identifiable for their great detailing and classic look. According to customer reviews, this watch manufacturer offers exceptional craftsmanship, innovative development, aesthetic design, and technological influence. Today, Chopard is famed across the world as a luxury watch producer. 

Where can You Find Authentic Swiss Luxury Watches?

This question is one of the FAQs when it comes to buying a timepiece. There are numerous verified retailers across the world from where you can get genuine Swiss luxury watch brands. You can choose to buy from a physical retailer or an online platform like Swissluxury.com.

Swissluxury.com has various physical offices in different parts of the world like Miami, FL, and Biscayne Blvd. Darryl Randall founded the company that specializes in selling brand new watches obtained from various dealers and wholesalers. 

Luxury Retreats and Summer Camps

Apart from wristwatches, Switzerland offers some of the best luxury summer camps, wellness retreat centers, and leading real estate companies. Wellness and luxury retreat centers in Switzerland surpass a simple ski holiday. Whether you are looking for top medical resorts or luxury spas, there are many options to choose from.

One of the leading retreat camps in Switzerland has to be Les Elfes. This international summer camp is one of the top luxury summer camps in Switzerland. The facility boasts more than 30 years of experience.

Over the years, Les Elfes has evolved and developed a first-class reputation for operating fields and ski trips. Les Elfes is open to both Switzerland and international residents. Campers will enjoy a vast range of programs structured to fulfill their needs.

Swiss Luxury Apparel and Clothing Brands

Knowing the best Swiss luxury clothing lines is critical when it comes to changing your wardrobe. Here are some of the brands you should know.

·         Hanro 

Hanro has been one of the best women clothing brands in Switzerland for years. Are you looking for undergarments, tank tops, funnel tunics, short-sleeved shirts, long-sleeved shirts, or even leggings? Hanro has a wide variety of high-quality and durable clothes for you to choose from. 

·         Loubay 

Loubay is a perfect Swiss luxury brand that specializes in an exclusive handbag line known as Think bag. This handbag line offers versatile and fashionable bags that you can use to carry your essential items. Loubay bags are available in different makes and sizes, and they also come in vibrant bright colors. One of the best things about Loubay bags is that they are unique, durable, and quite affordable. 

·         Baabuk Urban Shoes 

Baabuk Urban Shoes is a brand that specializes in men’s shoes. Are you looking for fashionable outfit-friendly shoes? If you are, then this brand will fulfill your needs. All Baabuk Urban Shoes come with rubber soles to prevent slippage during rainy days. They are also breathable and feature an anti-microbial fabric. Baabuk shoes are lightweight, water-resistant, and flexible. 

Luxury Eyewear

Luxury eyewear often comes imprinted with precious metals like platinum, gold, and diamond. It represents individuality, luxury, and high social status. Many consumers buy luxury eyewear, depending on their persona. Some of the best luxury eyewear brands in Switzerland include:

·         Bachmann Eyewear

Bachmann’s titanium frames come with a unique finish made with the Physical Vapor Deposition technology. This technology gives Bachmann eyewear robust surfaces and exclusive color intensity. Bachmann edition frames come in a hand refined wood case. If you love the quality and precision of Swiss luxury watches, then you will also appreciate the refinement of the Bachmann eyewear. 

·         Einstoffen 

Einstoffen is a brand that a group of world-traveling friends founded as an apparel label in 2008. The company founded its first bamboo sunglasses in 2012. Einstoffen has carved a niche in the eyewear industry with a classic aesthetic and premium designs. The brand incorporates natural materials like wood and stone to bring out the trademark Einstoffen look. 

·         Götti 

Götti has been in existence for many years and is well known for its minimalist sophistication and stylish spectacles. Götti sunglasses and glasses incorporate the legendary Swiss sense of attention to detail and craftsmanship. All Götti frames are designed in Zurich, Switzerland. They are stylish, durable, and of high quality. 

Luxury Jewellery

Luxury jewelry brands in Switzerland offer spectacular luxury creations. They come with rare gemstones and precious metals. If you are looking for high-quality jewelry, here are some of the brands you should try. 

·         Precious Chopard

Chopard jewelry designs combine sapphires and diamonds, and emeralds and rubies. The collection is made in Geneva by some of the most skilled craftsmen and professional jewelers. Chopard creations involve firmly protected traditions and classic prowess.  

·         Bucherer

Bucherer’s unique creations demonstrate the company’s expertise with diamonds. Some of the brand’s famous jewelry pieces include sparkling necklaces that feature pear-shaped stones and contemporary double rings. Bucherer offers a wide selection of diamond jewelry in Europe and is popularly known for its high-quality and durable pieces. 

·         De Grisogono

De Grisogono launched its first black diamond jewelry in 1996. They have since included bracelets and watch straps in their collection. Whether you are searching for high-end jewelry or dazzling diamonds, De Grisogono has a wide variety of beautiful pieces for you to choose from. 

About the Davos Economic Forum

One of the largest most opulent organizations is based in Geneva, Switzerland. The World Economic Forum which is held in Davos debates issues regarding the international political economy. It gets funding through its members, who are some of the most powerful, famous, and rich people in the world. These include politicians, industry leaders, academics, thinkers, and celebrities. 

Apart from Swiss-made watches, various things cross the mind at the thought of Switzerland. In this post, we shall discuss more about Swiss timepieces and other fascinating things you can find in Switzerland. 

Understanding Swiss Made Watches

Some of the most reliable and well-designed products in the world come with the phrase Swiss-made. When it comes to watches, this phrase pertains to the drive behind the creation of the timepiece. The Swiss-made label is a legal standard, meaning that products with this tag carry the term under the law. The Swissness laws were codified in 1971 and amended in 1995 in Switzerland. 

How to Identify an Authentic Swiss Watch

By law, a swatch watch can only be Swiss-made if it meets some conditions, which include: 

• The movement of the watch must be of Swiss origin. Movement here means the procedures that facilitate the watchkeeping time. 

• The Swiss movement must be cased up inside the borders of Switzerland. Thirdly, the manufacturer must conduct the watch’s final inspection in Switzerland. Generally, the luxury watch must be made in Switzerland from start to finish. 

The Swiss automatic watch has gained popularity across the world because it is of high quality. It has taken many years of dedication from manufacturers in the watch industry in the country to build a reputation.

Both large and small Swiss manufacturers take pride in their culture and continue to utilize the term Swiss on their items. Swiss watch brands are a deep-rooted and accepted prime mark of quality.

The Swiss government guards this reputation stringently and has passed different laws over the years. According to these Swiss laws, only specific products should feature the term Swiss under particular conditions.

What does the Law State?

The 1971 law strives to outline Swiss quality applicable to the production cost and magnitude of work on a watch conducted inside Switzerland. The law allows the use of foreign parts. However, it states that assembling of the movement with the case, hands, crown, pushers, and the final testing should occur in Switzerland. This law also states that at least 50% of the movement Swiss parts must be manufactured in Switzerland.

What happens if the watch’s movement meets the set conditions, but the timepiece was set-up outside the country? In this case, the term Swiss will appear in one of the movement components.

At the exterior part of the watch, the term movement Suisse, or Swiss movement will be evident. However, it must be in full, and the words must be in the same typeface and color as the term Swiss. 

Brand Protection

The Federation of the Swiss watch industry is responsible for brand protection. The organization uses the law we have discussed here, in collaboration with other places of origin. It also uses brand protection laws to safeguard the reputation of Swiss Watches.

Apart from Swiss watchmakers, many manufacturers in the watch industry struggle with counterfeiting, especially now that buying products online is easy. 

Why you Should Buy a Swiss Watch

There are numerous Swiss-made watch brands for you to choose from, such as Tag Heuer, Omega, Seiko, and Rolex. Many of these brands are more popular and superior to non-Swiss brands on the market today. They are also commonly used by the Swiss army. What are the reasons behind this kind of success? Read on to find out. 

Swiss wristwatches are made with ultimate craftsmanship to guarantee quality. Swiss companies use the best stainless steel and metal gears in the production process. The watches are handmade which cuts down manufacturing costs, and you can also take them for servicing. Due to this, you can wear a Swiss watch for many years. Manufacturers use robust materials to make the link pins and watch parts, unlike standard timepieces that are made with plastic parts. 

Nearly every Swiss-made mechanical watch comes with 316L surgical steel, top-grade metallic steel that can resist corrosive materials of biological or industrial origin. As a result, these watches are less prone to tarnish, or wear and tear. Swiss watches are also hypoallergenic, making them ideal for people who are allergic to secondary alloys. 

The face of Swiss-made timepieces is made of sapphire crystal, a material that makes them scratch resistant. 

How to Buy Swiss Made Watches

Buying a watch from a retailer in Switzerland should not be a difficult task. Swiss watchmaking companies are specific when it comes to dealing with retailers. This practice comes in handy to ensure that customers only access genuine products. Ensure your jeweler gives you a certificate of authenticity and a payment receipt. 

If you will be buying your watch online, it is crucial to conduct some research about the retailer. Check their website and read the review sections to get an overview of the experience previous customers have had.

Whether new or second hand, Swiss-made watches are not cheap. If the price is too low, then you may want to look for an alternative.

·         Consider the Movement

Are you looking for an automatic chronograph or a quartz watch? Automatic watches are self-winding, meaning that you do not have to wind them, especially if you wear them for 12 hours every day. Are you looking for a luxury watch? If this is the case, then a quartz movement option would be ideal because they are cheaper.

·         Consult an Expert

Differentiating a genuine watch from a replica today is fast becoming a difficult task. However, an expert can guide you accordingly. Beware of retailers who sell watches without paperwork. 

·         Watch out for Errors

Many non-Swiss watches come with tiny flaws like a misspelling of the name, and low-quality engravings, or some changes to the logo. Before buying a timepiece, you want to inspect it well using a magnifying glass. Doing so will help you identify any imperfections or errors. 

Browse through the watch company website. Many manufacturers include details of the watches they have manufactured on their websites. Sometimes you can succeed in matching serial numbers. 

Other Captivating Things that you will find in Switzerland 

·         The Les Elfes Summer Camp

Les Elfes is an international summer camp nestled in Verbier, the French-speaking region of Switzerland. Scenic landscapes, remarkable charm, and an irresistible atmosphere surround the Les Elfes summer camp.

The official language that young campers use when visiting both during their free time and while in class is English. Les Elfes offers various programs such as sporting, creative, and entertainment activities. Campers can also enroll in language lessons.

·         Chocolate

Switzerland is one of the famous Chocolate producers across the globe, and nearly everyone loves Swiss chocolate. Chocolate made in Swiss is not only creamy, smooth, and rich, but it also melts in your mouth.

Swiss chocolate comes with a unique texture that makes it irresistible. Once you have tasted it, you will not want to taste anything different. The high quality of Swiss chocolate is displayed right from the selection of raw materials and proficiency in the industry.

While the Swiss chocolate industry relies on culture, it strives to discover new things. Advanced techniques and recipes are created regularly to improve the production process, with scientists helping with research.

·         Gruyère Cheese

If you do not reside in Switzerland, you may think that Swiss cheese is like any other ordinary cheese that comes with holes. However, Swiss cheese is unique. You can find up to 450 different cheese varieties in Switzerland. Gruyère Cheese is one of the most popular and most protected Swiss cheese.

Gruyères is a town that lies in Fribourg, a French-speaking region east of Geneva. Fribourg is among the five locations that constitute the Gruyère AOP production area. Gruyère boasts a long culture with cheese making records dating back to the 12th century within the region.

Currently, Switzerland produces up to 30,000 tons of Gruyère cheese annually. Switzerland sold approximately 15,000 tons of this cheese in the country, meaning it was the most consumed cheese in 2018.

In 2001, Gruyère was given AOP (appellation d’origine protégée) protection from the EU. This term translates to protected designation of origin. However, various conditions come with this protection like:

• Manufacturers must produce Gruyère cheese using traditional methods.
• Producers must use raw milk obtained from organic-fed cows in dairies within 20 kilometers.
• Manufacturers must age Gruyère cheese for at least five months. 

You must store Gruyère cheese on wooden shelves at approximately 15 degrees in high humidity areas. This cheese is the main ingredient in fondue in various Swiss regions. It comes with a unique but not overwhelming taste making it ideal for cooking.

A Gruyère wheel measures around 60 centimeters in diameter and weighs approximately 38 kilograms. Look out for “Le Gruyère AOP” along the side of the rind if you are looking for genuine Gruyère cheese. Each cheese wheel must feature the number of the factory, production date, and a casein mark. 

·         The Alps

Nature and the picturesque Alps are some of the best things you will find in Switzerland. Thousands of tourists visit Switzerland each year to view and enjoy the Alps. You cannot miss the Alp Mountains as they constitute approximately 65% of the country. Apart from being the most elegant mountain ranges, the Alps are ideal for winter sports and skiing. The most famous Alps in Switzerland include the Jungfrau, the Matterhorn, and the Eiger. 

Key Takeaways

• Switzerland is one of the countries where quality is almost guaranteed for all products.

• Switzerland is the land of beautiful nature and a scenic range of mountains. 

• Swiss-made watches are some of the most popular across the world. The production process involves the use of high-quality materials, and you can use them for many years.