What does Swiss Made mean? Guide to genuine Swiss watches

What does “Swiss Made” really mean? – Everything you need to know about genuine Swiss watches

When you buy a watch, you often come across the term “Swiss Made”. It’s not just a clever marketing phrase — it’s a guarantee of quality, precision and craftsmanship that only watches made in Switzerland can boast. But what does “Swiss Made” actually mean? How do you ensure that a watch meets these strict requirements, and why is it so important to you as a consumer?

In this article, we at Viclara dive into everything you should know about “Swiss Made” – essential knowledge for anyone interested in Swiss watches, including brands like Tissot.

The story behind “Swiss Made”

The term “Swiss Made” dates back to the mid-19th century, when Switzerland began to build its reputation as a watchmaking nation. However, it was not until 1971 that Switzerland officially defined the rules for when a watch could be called “Swiss Made.” The aim was to protect the Swiss watch industry from cheaper copies and ensure consumer confidence.

Today, the “Swiss Made” label is protected by law, and only watches that meet a number of requirements may bear it.

The official requirements for “Swiss Made” watches

For a watch to be labeled “Swiss Made”, it must meet the following criteria set out in Swiss law:

1. The movement must be Swiss.

   • This means that the mechanical parts of the movement must be manufactured, assembled and quality controlled in Switzerland.

   • At least 60% of the value of the components in the watch movement must be produced in Switzerland.

2. The watch must be assembled in Switzerland

   • The actual assembly of the watch, where the movement and watch case are assembled, must take place in Switzerland.

3. The final inspection must be carried out in Switzerland.

   • The watch must undergo quality control and testing in Switzerland to ensure precision and functionality.

4. At least 60% of the total production value must be from Switzerland

   • It includes components, labor and production.

These rules ensure that “Swiss Made” is not just a stamp, but a real guarantee of a watch created with genuine Swiss craftsmanship.

Why is “Swiss Made” important?

1. Guarantee of quality and precision

Watches with the “Swiss Made” label are known for their high precision, durability and quality. Over the centuries, Swiss watchmaking has developed advanced techniques and strict quality control that ensure that the watches can last for generations.

2. Value and status

A “Swiss Made” watch signals exclusivity and reliability. For many, it is also an investment and a piece of timeless craftsmanship that can be passed down through generations.

3. Innovation and tradition hand in hand

Although the brand is associated with tradition, Switzerland is also known for being at the forefront of innovation in the watch industry. Brands like Tissot, for example, have brought revolutionary technologies such as anti-magnetic watches and touchscreen watches to the market, all under the “Swiss Made” umbrella.

“Swiss Made” today – how does Tissot ensure the high standard?

At Viclara we are proud to sell Tissot, a brand that is a perfect example of the true “Swiss Made” principle. Tissot combines tradition and innovation with great respect for craftsmanship. All their watches naturally follow the official requirements, and at the same time they are known for making Swiss quality accessible to more people.

Tissot carries out the assembly in Switzerland, where experienced watchmakers ensure that each watch meets the high standards – from the classic Le Locle to the advanced T-Touch watches.

Common misconceptions about “Swiss Made”

There are many misconceptions that we often hear:

• “Swiss Made” means that the watch is 100% made in Switzerland.
  No, this does not necessarily mean that all parts are Swiss, but that the essential parts and assembly are. Many components may come from subcontractors, but the majority must be produced in Switzerland.

• All Swiss watches are “Swiss Made”
  No, not all watches produced in Switzerland carry the mark. Only watches that meet the legal requirements may use the designation.

• “Swiss Made” is just a marketing tool
  While it's clearly a strong brand, there's also a real, legal obligation behind it. It's not just a pretty logo.

What about watches that are not “Swiss Made”?

The market is full of watches that are either manufactured outside of Switzerland or do not meet the requirements of “Swiss Made.” This does not necessarily mean that they are bad, but they do not have the same guarantee of quality, precision, and craftsmanship.

If you want a watch with a long history, recognized quality and value stability, “Swiss Made” is an important benchmark – and that is why we at Viclara always recommend looking for it.

Conclusion: “Swiss Made” – your guarantee of Swiss watchmaking

When you choose a watch with “Swiss Made” on the dial, you choose a story of passion, precision and quality that is hard to find elsewhere. It is a guarantee that the watch is not just a watch, but a piece of Swiss craftsmanship with a long heritage.

At Viclara, we help you find the perfect “Swiss Made” watch – including many of the best models from Tissot, which combine price, innovation and tradition in the most beautiful way.

Are you ready to experience the difference with a genuine “Swiss Made” watch? See our selection below, or visit us in store for personal advice and more information.