Swiss watch exports grew at a slower pace in October as shipments to China declined, suggesting a slight moderation in demand for high-end timepieces.
Shipments rose 6.7% to 2.27 billion francs ($2.4 billion) last month, the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry said Thursday. Exports are up 12% in the first ten months of the year, on track for a record.
Growth was led by the U.S., with exports jumping 17% to the nation that overtook China last year to become the biggest market for luxury Swiss timepieces.
Exports to China fell by 18% as the government’s Covid Zero policy kept some retail stores closed.
Exports of watches with wholesale prices between 200 francs and 500 francs plunged 37% in value, continuing a downturn that began in early 2020.