How American protectionism allowed Swiss watchmaking to dominate the world

Published on November 27, 2024 at 06:56. / Modified on November 27, 2024 at 09:48.

The story sometimes takes strange shortcuts. Journalism too. As the 47th President of the United States prepares to open his next inauguration by erecting a wall of customs taxes, the opportunity is great to recall a famous historical snub. This concerns Swiss watchmaking. More exactly the original label. The essential “Swiss made” which allows manufacturers from the Jura region to dominate the world market by a long way. The figures usually given (without being able to be demonstrated, due to lack of complete statistics) establish that Switzerland produces only a very small fraction of the world volume, barely a few percent, but represents more than 50% of the total value.

So much for the decor. And it turns out that, historically, American protectionism served as a springboard for the label that is so celebrated today. The historian Pierre-Yves Donzé, a specialist in the watchmaking sector, has a ready-made formula to summarize this complex epic: “the sprinkler watered.” Because what began as a retaliatory measure has turned out to be a formidable lever for promotion.

Follow the news with us and support demanding and daring journalism

For the end-of-year holidays, take advantage of -25% on your annual subscription ????

Quality information just a click away. Offer valid until December 25, 2024.

I subscribe

Already have an account?
Log in