Swiss Luxury Watch Brands Eye Growth in India as Trade Landscape Shifts

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Swiss luxury watchmakers are gearing up for a promising period of growth in India, driven by recent shifts in trade policy and a rising base of affluent consumers. According to Adrian Bosshard, Chief Executive Officer of Rado, easing import duties and strengthening demand are positioning the country as one of the most attractive markets worldwide for premium watches.

EFTA Agreement to Make Luxury Watches More Accessible

A key factor behind this optimism is India’s new trade agreement with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), which includes Switzerland. The pact will gradually eliminate basic customs duty on Swiss watches over the next seven years, reducing barriers that historically made high-end timepieces expensive for Indian buyers. Bosshard noted that this tax reduction will make luxury timepieces more competitively priced and accessible, potentially boosting sales across segments.

India: Rado’s Biggest and Fastest-Growing Market

Rado has seen India evolve into a major growth engine, with the country now surpassing traditional powerhouse markets such as China and the United States. The brand has consistently recorded double-digit growth in India, with demand not only from long-time traditional buyers but also from younger, first-time luxury consumers who view premium watches as symbols of personal achievement and style.

Youthful Demographics and Rising Purchasing Power

Bosshard highlighted that India’s young, ambitious population and growing purchasing power are key drivers behind the surge in interest for luxury watches. Entry-level Swiss models, priced around ₹1 lakh, are attracting younger professionals, while higher-end collections — like the Captain Cook series — continue to find buyers among seasoned enthusiasts.

Luxury Demand Rising Beyond India

Industry insiders also point to broader trends supporting luxury watch sales in India. With luxury spending slowing in markets such as China, global brands, including the likes of Bvlgari, are increasing focus on the Indian market, expanding retail footprints and tailoring offerings to local preferences. The combination of a growing affluent middle class, rising disposable incomes, and enhanced retail infrastructure positions India as a key strategic market for international luxury timepiece brands

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