Case Studies
Our case studies cover some of the products our Asia Import Platform customers have developed in recent years.
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Millions of watches are assembled in China every year, primarily in Shenzhen, Guangdong province. With hundreds of watch manufacturers to choose from, it can be somewhat tricky to find one capable to manufacture your watch design.
In this article, we share our experience of China’s wristwatch industry and explain the factors that matter when selecting a manufacturer. We also explain what importers must know about design customization, and how this has a direct impact on pricing and minimum order quantity requirements.
This is covered:
The truth is that a ‘Watch manufacturer’ doesn’t really manufacture the watches. They assemble the watches and procure all individual components. The Watchcase, crown, hands, clock face, and even the indexing are all produced by specialized subcontractors.
This also applies to movements, which are often procured directly from Miyota, Seiko or Ronda.
The Watch supplier is essentially managing these subcontractors, and assemble the final products. In general, all Watch suppliers have access to the same subcontractors. As they don’t invest much in R&D, this means that all suppliers in the industry have access to the same materials and components.
Does that mean that all suppliers are equal? Definitely not. Watch manufacturers differ on the following factors:
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a. Product compliance: Most suppliers are not aware of EU and US product regulations, such as REACH and RoHS. Hence, they may supply a product with excessive amounts of lead and other restricted substances.
b. Quality management: Managing a large number of subcontractors is not an easy task. At a minimum, the supplier must have established procedures for checking incoming materials and components – and checkpoints on the assembly line.
c. Management: Some people are just better at taking care of their customers and running businesses than others. This is also how it works in China’s watch industry.
So, what about pricing? The price difference between two different suppliers is normally small, assuming you get quoted based on the same product specification. As mentioned, the suppliers are buying materials and components from the same network of subcontractors.
Chinese Watch manufacturers are accustomed to producing goods in part, or entirely, according to the buyer’s product specifications.
A product specification is any piece of information that defines the design, functions, and durability of a product. Below follows a short list of specifications applicable to watches:
That’s not the full list of specifications you need to cover, but I think the point has been made. As Chinese manufacturers are accustomed to this “make to order” approach, they will not manage the product development for you.
They are manufacturers, and offering a free of charge design service would force them to increase their prices, which in turn would result in most buyers taking their (free) designs to the next manufacturer.
Note: Watch suppliers normally create a 2D rendering of the Watch, effectively illustrating the final product from all angles. However, the rendering is based entirely on specifications provided by the customer. Do not expect any creative input from the manufacturer, as this is outside their business scope.
While you shouldn’t expect free product development services from any manufacturer, most are able to realize your customized watch designs.
The major component is the watch case, which requires an injection mold. This can easily be made by the supplier or subcontracted, assuming you have a CAD design, detailed images, drawings, or reference sample.
However, the case design must be based on the actual components (e.g. movement and dial) that you intend to use. There are also limits to how far you should go when designing a wristwatch.
You can custom design any component, including the hands, crown, and indexing. That said, all OEM (custom designed) components require tooling, which costs more time and extends the product development time. it can also affect the MOQ requirement.
If you are about to launch your first product, you may want to consider using ODM (factory standard) parts to the extent possible.
On the contrary, the watch case, clock face, and straps are easier to customize. For most small businesses, it makes sense to strike a balance somewhere in between and mix between custom designed components, and “factory standard” components.
Most Watch manufacturers keep high volume components in stock. These components are assembled on most models, which allows the supplier to offer a fairly modest MOQ requirement per watch design.
The best way to simplify the product development process is by first asking the supplier to send PDF or Excel files listing the standardized components they can offer, and then adjust your watch case design accordingly.
Importers in the United States and the European Union should also note that specific labeling requirements apply to wristwatches. Never make the assumption that your manufacturer ‘should know’ how your watch should be labeled, according to regulations in your country.
The labeling information (e.g. Country of Origin markings) shall be part of the artwork files, and not left out as a gap for the supplier to fill.
Compliance with labeling requirements is relatively easy, not barely related to the manufacturers’ expertise. As long as you get the artwork files right, things rarely go wrong in this aspect.
I wish I could say the same thing about compliance with substance regulations (e.g. REACH in the European Union, and California Proposition 65 in the United States).
Importers in the US and EU are required to ensure compliance with all applicable product regulations. This should, at least in theory, be quite simple.
I know from personal experience that most Watch manufacturers are unable to provide test reports or other compliance documents, showing that their products don’t contain excessive amounts of restricted chemicals (e.g. lead, cadmium and phthalates).
Indeed, it is possible to submit a sample to a testing company such as Asiainspection or SGS, but this is only of use if you can ensure that the very same components are used on the sample, as on the final product. Replace a material, color, or coating, and the watch may be rendered as non-compliant.
This issue stems from a lack of control of incoming materials and components, from the manufacturers’ subcontractors. As a watch is made of a large number of components, these are not all made under the same roof, but purchased from specialized manufacturers.
Combine this with the general lack of transparency and knowledge of substance regulations in other countries, and you got a potent – and dangerous – mix.
It’s therefore critical that you select a Watch manufacturer that is able to prove extensive, previous, compliance with European and American substance regulations.
That is, however, only the first step, as previous compliance is a mere indication of capability, rather than a guarantee for future compliance.
Buyers are therefore wise to submit batch samples for compliance testing on a regular basis, to minimize the risk of non-compliant, and thereby illegal, products from entering the market. Importing non-compliant products is illegal, and may result in a forced recall and heavy fines.
Also note that it’s always the importer that is held responsible, not the foreign, in this case, Chinese, manufacturer.
Watch manufacturers subcontract the making of their product packaging to specialized packaging producers. The majority can also offer a number of standardized models, offered in fairly low quantities.
Branding is also possible but may result in a slight MOQ and price increase.
Making a custom designed packaging is another alternative, but requires certain packaging design expertise, as it must be based on the design and dimensions of the watch.
Relying on the supplier to apply the final adjustment is rarely a wise choice, and may result in a large number of useless packages.
The Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) Requirement is the minimum number of products a supplier is willing to sell a certain item. Watch manufacturers generally set an MOQ of around 300 to 500 pieces per model.
The definition of a model is, to most manufacturers, the watch case. The MOQ requirement is therefore multiplied based on the number of different watch cases you intend to purchase.
Small buyers are therefore advised to find other ways to differentiate the product, rather than buying several watch case designs, which quickly adds up to an MOQ of thousands of units.
As touched upon previously in this guide, the MOQ requirement is greatly affected by the design customization. Certain components and design aspects have a higher impact on the MOQ requirement than others.
Below follows an overview of various components, and to what degree they are likely to affect the MOQ set by the manufacturer:
The MOQ per case plating is often as low as 100 pcs. Assuming that the total order MOQ is 500 pcs, you can then create 5 different cases in the same order.
All watch manufacturers use the same supplier base for procuring materials and components. As mentioned, the watch manufacturer is more of an administrator, than a proper factory.
The watch manufacturer assembles the watch parts, while another workshop makes the clock face, while another one makes the hands.
As such, there is no proper difference between suppliers when it comes to product quality. All watch manufacturers make products based on the spec sheet.
What you get is what you specify.
In theory, you’d get the exact same product from two different suppliers, as long as the spec sheet is the same.
There are no suppliers that can provide fancy movements, or space station grade alloys. They simply don’t exist.
In reality, there are some differences though:
1. Some suppliers focus on stainless steel watches, while others focus more on wood or zinc alloy watches. Or even plastic watches. Make sure you go to a watch factory that is specialized in your type of watch.
2. All suppliers in this industry are relatively sloppy. However, there’s a big difference between suppliers that can keep a 1% defect rate and those that run with a 30% (or higher) defect rate.
Shenzhen is known as an electronics manufacturing powerhouse but is also the world’s largest industrial base for watch manufacturers. A few years ago I was told there are more than 3000 companies, both watch factories, and component suppliers, in Shenzhen’s Bao’An district alone.
Listed Companies
Note that all listed suppliers require that you provide a clear product specification for your watch, complete with design files, bill of materials, and logo design.
Product Scope
While these companies all make watches, they are also specialized in certain types and materials. Here are a few examples:
Disclaimer
We are not exclusive partners or affiliated with any of the companies listed in this guide. We have selected these companies based on their claimed product scope, history, certification, and capabilities.
Shenzhen Yonghao Watch & Clock was founded in 2005, specializing in manufacturing watches with their own in-house design. The company also accepts OEM orders and provides product manufacturability consulting, designing, sampling, and promotion assistance services for the private labels and other buyers.
Up to 100 employees work in the manufacturing facility of Shenzhen Yonghao Watch & Clock, which occupies an area of over 1800 square meters. Also, the company has a production capacity of about 40,000 pieces per month.
Shenzhen Yonghao Watch & Clock offers full customization and design consultation services for every part and element of the watch to match up the market expectation of the clients. Customizable elements include the dial, crown, hand, case, dial, lugs, bezel, pusher, sundial, and hour maker.
For example, the dial and bezel of the dress watch can be unornamented, or slightly patterned and use cold tones such as white, black, or metallic faces in order to cater to the sense of business formality or dignity of the occasion.
Main Products
Summary
Location: 3/F, East Wing, Building 1, Qiyu Industrial Zone, Gongle Tiezai Road, Xixiang, Bao’An District, Shenzhen, Guangdong
Shenzhen Cocean Timepiece Technology is a watch manufacturer located in Shenzhen, offering ODM and OEM services for private labels, retailers, wholesalers, and distributors.
The products manufactured by Shenzhen Cocean Timepiece Technology include stainless steel watches, alloy watches, sports watches, blood pressure monitoring watches, dress watches, business watches, ceramic watches, couples watches, gift watches, and souvenir watches.
Currently, the company has exported its watches to more than 50 countries including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, and Russia.
Main Products
Summary
Location: 2nd Floor, Building C, No. 8 Dishannan Road, Xinsheng Community, Longgang District, Shenzhen, Guangdong
Shenzhen Aiers Watch is a watch designer and manufacturer based in Shenzhen. The company offers ODM and OEM services for wrist watch importers, retailers, and wholesalers.
Shenzhen Aiers Watch has designed more than 100 models of hybrid digital watches, quartz watches, dive watches, chronograph tourbillon watches, luminous pilot watches, dress watches, and other types of watches of different functions and for various occasions.
These products are available in materials like stainless steel, bronze, titanium, carbon fiber, Damascus steel, sapphire, and 18K gold. The manufacturing center of Aiers Watch in Shenzhen employs up to 200 people and is equipped with more than 50 sets of CNC cutting machines and 6 sets of NC machines.
Main Products
Summary
Location: D building 4 floor, Huawan Industrial Zone, Bao’An Road, Gushu, Xixiang, Bao’An, Shenzhen, Guangdong
Shenzhen City Yongda Clock & Watch was founded in 2001, as a watch manufacturing factory providing services, mainly for small-scale watch startups and individual buyers. The company supplies hundreds of model watches, including dress watches, pocket watches, sports watches, dive watches, and more.
The monthly capacity of Shenzhen City Yongda Clock & Watch is close to 500,000 units, with over 50 percent of them delivered to North America and Europe.
Main Products
Summary
Location: B. Building, No. 4, East District Shangxue Technology City, Bantian, Longgang District, Shenzhen, Guangdong
Shenzhen Kastar Timepieces was established in 2011 as a professional OEM and ODM watchmaker, mainly serving supermarkets, chain store brands, and other retailers.
Shenzhen Kastar Timepieces offers services for start-up companies who are looking for a quick way to expand the market. At the same time, the company also has its own designer team, which launches close to 40 new models per month.
The company has expertise in producing a variety of watches with different elements and parts, such as quartz, sport, fashion, classic, stainless steel, alloy, and jewelry. Currently, the claimed production capacity of the company is close to 300,000 pcs per month.
Main Products
Summary
Location: 5th Floor, Building B7, 3rd Fenghuanggang Industrial Zone, Xixiang, Bao’An Industrial Area, Shenzhen, Guangdong
Window’s Clock & Watch was founded in the 1990s in Shenzhen City, as a leading professional OEM and ODM watch manufacturer.
Window’s Clock & Watch owns a 2,500 square meters factory, equipped with state-of-art inspection equipment, such as the water resistance testing machines, band tensile testing machines, movement testing instruments. Currently, the production capacity of Window’s Clock & Watch is over 300,000 pieces per month.
According to the information published on its website, over the past decade, Window’s Clock & Watch has provided contract manufacturing services for some reputable clients in the watch industry, such as Swatch, Daniel Wellington, Hello Kitty, Vero Moda, Forever 21, and Image.
Main Products
Summary
Location: B4/F, Building, Xingyi Industrial Centre, Fuyong Town, Bao’An District, Shenzhen City, Guangdong
Shenzhen Zhongshi Watch is a factory established in 2006, specialized in producing wooden and bamboo watches, wooden sunglasses, and wooden belts.
The company has its original brand named BEWELL, which offers more than 70 models of wooden and bamboo watches, designed and developed by the in-house professional watch designer and technician team.
Customers can choose the overall shape, materials, colors, embellishments, and other elements of the watch according to their original design to cater to the targeted market.
In general, most of the models are lightweight and broad-paneled with simple and natural designs, which are suitable to be worn as the style of business casual, filed, rustic, and leisurely. Customers can also choose between traditional chronograph style or electronic style.
Main Products
Summary
Location: No.8, Weiliang Road 1, Xialu Village, Zhongtang Town, Dongguan, Guangdong
Co-founder of Asiaimportal (HK) Limited and based in Hong Kong. He has been quoted in and contributed to Bloomberg, SCMP, Alibaba Insights, Globalsources.com, China Chief Executive, Quartz Magazine and more.
Comments are closed.
Hi Fredrik,
Can you point me in the right direction for finding companies who specialize in making watch hands? I need 4 hands for a GMT watch I am designing. I need 50 to 100 sets.
Thank you…
Hello Ralph,
We never work directly with hands manufacturers as they are made in specialized factories that often don’t even have export licenses.
Hi Fredrik
It’s such a pleaseure to find someone giving interest in helping people finding the right manufacturers in China.
I’ve starting designing my watch that I want to make 100 or 200 units in China. I see in the article that the minimum is 500, is it possible to convince them otherwise?
Do you have examples of high quality watches that they made on pictures?
Any idea of prices per unit of a watch of a Daniel Willington and Fossil level?
Kind regards
Hello Michelange,
1. Some suppliers may accept from 300 pcs, but not lower than that. That said, most accept 100-200 pcs per color (e.g. case plating or dial color)
2. I would estimate that DW can manufacture their watches for around 12-13 USD per piece. That’s also because they produce very large volumes. A 500 pcs production run would probably cost 18-20 USD. No idea about Fossil though.
Our company would accept small orders. Customization and design development are available. https://www.montrichardwatch.com/
Hi,
I don’t see smartwatches mentioned in the topic!
Could you please point out about suppliers, manufacturers, and process to design and assembling smartwatches?
Thanks
Hi Adam,
We have a separate article for smart watches
Here’s the link: https://www.chinaimportal.com/blog/smart-watch-fitness-tracker-suppliers-china/
Hi Fredrik I just wanted to ask if I can give you example of what type of watch I want then you make it for me?
Hi Edwin,
You will need to create a complete product specification, including design drawings and a bill of materials.
hello am moses
please am looking towards starting up a watch line and have no knowledge on how
please if you would please mentor me through the process i would definitely appreciate
hope to hear from you soon enough.
Hello Moses,
I suggest you watch our free webinar: http://www.chinaimportal.com/webinar-a
Hi,
There are a lot of questions i need to ask. I am interested in starting a watch brand based out of Pakistan (literally next to china) .can you email me so that I can ask you hell lot of questions, which if posted here will make a long post.
Cheers,
Nosh
Hi Nosh,
I suggest you sign up for our free webinar on http://www.chinaimportal.com/webinar-a
Hi Fredrik,
This guide is very helpful to the watches starter, especially for those have no experience in importing watches from China.
Could you please share more information about what certificates is required for USA, UK for importing watches?
Hi William,
I suggest you look up our articles about CE marking and CA Prop 65 here on the website. Both are applicable to watches in the US and UK, respectively.
The certificates depend on the type of watches. for stainless steel you won’t check phthalates, but for plastic watches we do.
we’re manufacturers in China, but the owner is French. Feel free to contact us https://www.montrichardwatch.com/
Hi Frederick,
I am interested in watch retail business and i am looking for how i could find a good manufacturer or suppliers of quality watches, could you please recommend some companies to me. I love your article.
Sunny.
Hello Sunny,
we can certainly help you with this. First of all, in this article we share a lot of usefule tips. Second, we do offer suppliers lists as part of our premiunm service, the Starter Package. You find the details here: https://www.chinaimportal.com/watches/
Let me know if you have further questions, you can also contact us privately here: https://www.chinaimportal.com/contact-us/
Great Blog! I am really amazed by this watch manufacture by China. This has really proven a great help help to me. After reading this article got tons of information regarding spotting a right watch. I’m a watch lover and this article is really helpful as this provides information and tips to choose my best fit watch. Thanks for such a great information on the important topic.
Hey, nice collection. Here are some of the best collection of watches that I found. That’s a really nice checklist and will serve any watch buyer very well. Thanks a lot for this information!
hi
I”m about to make small watch brand I”m designer doing my cad in 3D in house i know exactly
what i need regard design
about 50 pcs all in gold 14k
how can i find good factory can create
Hello Albert, I suggest you to have a look at our Starter Package: Watched, which also includes a list of manufacturers handpicked for your specific product: https://www.chinaimportal.com/watches/
I am looking for a watch with Video / Audio and GPS. . I need for this watch to be align to my Desktop computer, Laptop, Ipad or smartphone. It is because I want to be able to know the exact location where the person is at, and also, be able to view them and have a two-way communication with them.
I have the Patent to this watch in America. May I hear from you soon.
Hello Salaam,
this looks like an OEM product (custom product). It’s certainly possible to manufacture it on China, however the MOQ (minimum order quantity) won’t be too low. How many pieces do you want to manufacture?
Aloha from Hawaii,
I have been “thinking” of having a watch manufactured for a couple of years. You set me straight on the realities of that particular brainstorm. Great info. But, lets say I had this “idea” for a watch and I know I don’t want to do all the legwork (my brain doesn’t work that way). Do you know of folks who have been successful in building a watch from standard components and maybe a customized case and successfully importing it to US without going broke or thrown into jail who would for a service fee take my “idea” to fruition? And speak English.
Mahalo,
R. J.
Hi Roy,
Not sure what you are looking for? You want an agent based in China?
Hi, my name is Luis.
We want from any months creating and designing a new watch brand.
Basicly we have all styles and we found two manufacturers in Shenzhen that
they have many years manufacturing their own watches and they doing OEM
watches too.
The manufacturers we see are: Meigeer and Aiers.
But we dont know if these are a good option quality/price to quartz watches.
Hi Luis,
We are familiar with these companies, but we don’t comment on individual manufacturers.
But I can say that there are no “great” manufacturers. It comes down to the way you manage the process.
Hi Fredrik
I’m looking for Electroforming companies in China to manufacture a few thousand small mechanical components, can you recommend any, or know where I can find a list of such companies. Thanks in advance. Alan
Hi Fredrik,
We are starting up a watch brand, we are more of an electronics company, so we have been creating all the internals already. Now we need to get some help for manufacturing some prototypes of the actual watch itself and going into production. The main thing that worries me is finding the right supplier and managing quality control. Do you have any recommendations on suppliers? Please email me as well so we can discuss.
Thanks
Alex
Hi Fredrik,
I just emailed you. Please have a look.
Many thanks
Titi
Hi,
I am interested in starting a watch brand in Asia. I am interested in someone who can help design, customize, manufacture and then ship the products.
Thank You
Abey
Hi Abey,
I suggest you watch our webinar to learn more about how we can help. It’s free, and you can sign up here: http://www.chinaimportal.com/webinars
hi Frederick,
I want to start an Start-up with watches. I’m searching for a good quality watch factory in china. I had already found one http://www.embalmwatch.com.
What do you think about this factory?
Thank you
mfg
Felix Kaufmann
Hi Felix,
We have never worked with them so I cannot comment on this supplier
Hi,
I would need your help on how to customize a specific watch design I have in mind. Its polycarbon in material and its been difficult to source a manufacturer that can do that. But I’ve heard there’s many in Shenzhen.
Kindly communicate to with me via email. Hopefully we can collaborate.
Thank you.
Hey,
can you please contact me at my email address or mobile number. we are interested to import watches in bulk. we need a quotation and catalog if you have any.
Regards,
Waqas
Hello Muhammad,
We provide supplier lists as part of our Starter Package: https://www.chinaimportal.com/watches/
Dear….I m from India. I would like to start a new watch marketing company. Heard that most of the first copy replica watches of famous brands are manufacturing in China. Can we take any of those successful design and alter little bit accordingly to our choices and market it here in our brand name. Hope you can give me some advice. Thanking You…..
Rajesh M
hello my name is jose. please contact me. i have questions about reliable manufactures
Hi Jose,
We offer supplier lists as part of our Starter Package for Apparel: https://www.chinaimportal.com/watches/
Good day
I am Sofia Sedenu from Nigeria…. I want to produce my line of branded watches…… Can You Recommend a good chinese factory……Thank You….
Hi Fredrik
I’ve been doing some research into watches.
Would you please do me a favor and share some infos on the best quality watches from Chinese manufacturers. Ideally looking for manufacturers that can work with designs and work towards them together. I want to produce watches for kids – in my brand.
Will be great if you could help me anyway.
Kind Regards,
Bartek
Hi Bartek,
We do offer supplier lists as part of the Starter Package: https://www.chinaimportal.com/watches/
Hello,
Awesome guide, I love it.
One thing I want to ask, is it possible that a factory can steal your design?
We have this awesome and totally new design, 3d renders and other files are ready. We are a bit scared that a factory can steal your design or the idea from it, maybe copy it.
Does this happen?
Hi Berth,
Yes, that is possible. You can apply for a design patent in the EU or US, to protect your design.
I would like not only to design but help distribute the new startup company watches.
Hi Frederick,
I have a successful online shop where I am selling a single watch, my customers love it, but I would like to move further and design by myself the new series of watches after seeing the success in my store, and reading the feedback of my clients.
For that I would need to present some designs that I have in mind to manufacturers in China.
Can you please get in touch with me: info@photographers-watch.com
Dear Frederick,
Thank you very much for this informative post.
I’m currently establishing a Start-up in the watch industry and am looking for a reliable manufacturer. If you would be so kind to contact me via mail, I can give more specifications (material, movement etc.) to give you a more refined insight so you can give the best recommandation.
Thank you very much for your help and time,
klaus
Hi Klaus,
We will contact you by email
Dear Fredrick,
Our company is working in the watches & jewels industry over 40 years.
I think it can great if I we can get in touch, I am sure this will be helpful for both of us :)
Waiting for your mail
Salomon
Hi Salomon,
We’ve contacted by you email!
Hey,
we are interested in the produce of watches. Do you have some suggestions on good Chinese or asian in generall OEM watch manufacturers?
Best regards,
JSD watches
Hello Jani,
We’ve contacted you by email!
Hi,
Im an avid watch enthusiast and am looking for a watch manufacturer in China.
I want to have options/input when creating the piece, whether it design or movement. Can you please recommend any manufacturers?
I look forward to your reply
Thanks
Paul
Hello,
We will contact you by email
Hi
I am looking to outsource the existing designs and create a new line of watch, can you help me to get in touch with some reliable ODM/OEM from China
Hi,
Did you get our email?
Hi,
I am in the stages of sourcing manufacturers for my new Private Watch Label. Really interested in hearing more from you on how you can help with manufacturers.
Thanks,
A
hi,
im looking to start up my own small watch company and im currently at the stage of producing a prototype ill be using mostly factory pieces with an exception to the actual movement of the watch.. i am also looking for a trusted and efficient manufacturer.
regards,
peter
Hi Peter,
We will contact you by email
Hi there
Amazingly informative article. Thank you so much.
Please kindly email recommended manufacturers that I would be able to work with to develop early stage oem wristwatch label.
K
Hi Kas,
We will contact you by email
Hi! Me and my friend are currently setting up a small watch company. Any chance you can help? We have some ideas how we want it! Can you send me an email?
Best regards
Martin
Hi
I am looking for one particular model of what which i need to import from china or either produce . I need ilthat very urgenty can you please help me with that .
Rutika
Hi,
I am currently setting up a company for watch supplies. I already have suppliers in the EU and I’m looking to expand with suppliers from Asia.
Any chance you can help? The main request is high standard finishing for the high-end watchmarket.
Many thanks.
Hello,
We will contact you by email
Hellow Fredrick,
I am looking forward to starting a small retail business in wrist watches particularly for health matters. I am looking for a genuine supplier from china. I don’t need cons and that’s why i am doing this research before I make any payment. Could you please list for me a few genuine suppliers you know.
N/B its a start up business and so i do not need to do a lot of importation at the beginning but as time goes by, i am hopping to increase the volume.please reply im new to this you are the help i have which i can trust .
Hi,
I would like to establish my own watch company. Can you help me with launching new brand?
I am going to buy your Wrist watches guide, because I want to know, how to do everything.
Can you send me an email?
Thank you
Hello Robert,
We have contacted you by email. Did you get it?
Hi Fredrick,
Thanks for such informative article, it helps a lot. I am now planning to launch my watch brand, in order to cross selling with my core business’s product. Currently looking for a genuine and quality manufacturer from China.
Questions:
1) Are they helpful in completing the design?
2) How to protect the design from selling it to other?
3) Is there MOQ required? I will start from small quantity and introduce it to market first.
Hope you can email me some reliable watch manufacturers in China. (Of course i know that there is no free lunch in this world)
Thanks and regards,
Isaac
Hello Isaac,
1. They make a rendering based on the spec sheet you provide them. Don’t expect any creative input, as they don’t do design work.
2. For watches you can basically only trademark your brand name
3. Yes. At least 400 pcs per watch case design, and 200 pcs per plating.
As for supplier details: We don’t share that for free, as it goes a lot of work into verifying manufacturers. However, we do include supplier details as part of the Buyer’s Guide: https://www.chinaimportal.com/watches/
Hi Fredrik,
I am a student looking to start my own fashion watch business and am in the process of designing. I have a CAD model but also require help to complete the design as the CAD model is more outer aesthetics than designed for water resistance etc. Are the manufacturers helpful in completing the design?
Also what can I do to minimize the risk of the manufacturer taking my design and selling it on as a white label watch to another company in the future?
Thank You!
Hi Fredrik,
I seek your kind assistance in providing more information in regards of outsourcing reliable manufacturers and guides on working with them. Appreciate if you could email me at the soonest.
Regards
Yuz
Hi Fredrik,
I have chanced upon your website and is interested to find out more on the manufacturer list pertaining to the manufacture of smart watches with specific functions and requirements. I am looking at an initial small quantity. Appreciate your response.
Regards,
Alvin
Hi Alvin,
What is the estimated volume and the target market?
Hi Fridrik,
I am in the process of launching a watch line, and have setup everything business related except the actual sourcing. As such, I need to filter out reliable suppliers from non-reliable ones. Perhaps more guidance would be welcome.
Thanks,
Jack
Hi,
We will contact you by email
Hi.
I’m looking to begin a relative low cost, bespoke watch brand, could you please give me more information regarding this, I am interested in purchasing the information packages, I would just like some more guidance on this before I proceed.
Kind regards
Hi,
We sent you an email a few days ago. You should have received it by now.
Hello Fredrik.
I am Currently looking for manufacturers and already in contact with some. My question is if you can help me find a reliable manufacturer where quality is ensured. I am ready to pay for your services and help.
Thank you
Oskar
Good morning Oskar,
We’ll send you an email later today
hi friedrik
im a young student .im interested in starting my own watch company in future .please can i have your e-mail address ,i have a lot of questions t ask if u don’t mind
Hi,
We will contact you in a few hours by email
Hi Friedrik
Im also interested in manufactor from Chine,
please contact me.
thanks
Hei Fredrik,
We are two entrepreneurs from Norway, and would like to get in touch with you. Can you send me a mail?
Thanks!
Best regards,
Erlend
Hello,
We will contact you by email
Hi Fredrik,
Can you please email me your fees for advising manufacturers in china for high end wrist watches.
Thank you so much
Giorgio
Hello,
We will contact you by email
Hi Fredrik,
We will soon be launching a new watch brand in Europe, and would love to receive some assistance with selecting the right manufacturer. We have selected a number of them, however, we are having a difficulty of evaluating them against each other.
Thanks.
Best,
Kristian
Hey Kristian,
You should have received our email by now. We can help you with this.
Hi Fredrik,
Very informative article, many thanks. I am currently starting the hunt for a manufacturer of a mens/unisex 24hr analogue movement who can also produce a custom face and hands. Standardized cases straps etc. MMQ 500-1000.
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks
tom
Hello,
We will send you an email with more information
Hi Fredrik,
I am in the very early stages of starting a micro brand watch line. In the first models I will be using standard factory cases and was hoping you could email me so I could ask you a few questions.
Hope to hear from you,
Best regards
Linda
Hi Linda,
You should have received our email by now
Hello I’m from the Caribbean. I am interested in starting my own watch company and I would like to know if you can supply watches of custom designs that I come up with. Can you get back to me via email as soon as possible. Thanks in advance.
Regards,
John
Hello Jonathan,
You should have received our email by now.
Hi Fredrik
I have a few questions about paying the manufacturer.
Please contact me at your convenience :)
Hi Johnson,
Did you receive our email?
Hi Fredrik,
I’m currently looking for manufacturers of high end custom watch cases. Design is ready to go.
Please contact me to discuss specific services you provide.
Thanks
Hello Graham,
we will contact you by email!
Hello Fredrick,
Thanks for a very informative article. I am looking forward to starting a business in wrist watches for men and women. I am looking for a genuine supplier from china. I don’t need cons and that’s why i am doing this research before I make any payment or before I contact somebody. Could you please list for me a few genuine suppliers you know.
Hello Sachin,
We will contact you by email!
Hello! i`m reading all your articles thanks for sharing good practices, so in case i can choose a ready case and add logo and small changes on crown, hands. cause i want to create my own brand and bring pieces from China. Then i have a doubt regarding copyrights when the proposal is to use a catalog case/watch from China factory, how can i guarantee to avoid copy issues? or in case of watches that are so similar each model then does not apply this exclusivity? sorry i forgot to mention that i live in Brazil and want to make a contract with a China factory to start a new brand here. Also are there any way to secure quality for production pieces? something like a parts production assurance plan? or can we safe choose some suppliers that is well secured to deliver good parts or receive claim/refund. thank you, regards! Antonio
Hi Antonio,
The truth is that there’s no simple way to be sure that you don’t infringe on design patents.
As for quality, you need a quality assurance procedure. This is a process that begins with drafting a product specification, and is managed throughout the production procedure.
Hi,
I am currently researching my own watch brand which is based on a unique idea requiring an OEM build, I have a CAD and 3D artist and full description, logo, branding etc… but the next step being prototype building and design/manufacturing I am unsure how to find a suitable manufacturer in China. I want to ensure risk is kept low and time is not wasted getting designs and misinterpretations correct.
Would really appreciate an email if screening and suggested manufacturers is something you provide?.
Thanks
Barry
Hi Barry,
We have already contacted you by email. I hope you received it?
Hey was wondering if you could email me some manufactures that I can trust overseas.
Hi Tyler,
We can, but that is a paid service. We invest a lot of resources to screen manufacturers in certain industries – and nobody would give that away for free.
Hi,
I have been doing some research into the wrist watch business. I found this article to be really helpful. Could you send me some of the catalogs of the available components you mentioned. Hope to receive your reply as soon as possible.
Hadique
Hi Hadique,
We have already contacted you by email.
You can also check out our Buyer’s Guide: Wrist Watches – https://www.chinaimportal.com/watches/
Hello.
Im looking for a watch manufacturer in China.
I want to design my own watch and have a good work between the manufacturer and me.
Could you please help me?
Kind Regards, Dennis
Hello Dennis,
I suggest you check out our Buyer’s Guide: Wristwatches
You find it here: https://www.chinaimportal.com/watches/
It explains how the process works when importing Watches from China, from A to Z
Hi,
I have been looking for a manufacturer for some time now and cannot seem to find one that lives up to my standards of professionalism.
Do Chinese manufacturers not work with catalogs of stock parts they produce (dials, hands, cases, bracelets (wristbands), types of glass and crowns, including materials and dimensions)?
Alternatively, do you have some suggestions on good Chinese OEM watch manufacturers?
My best,
Thijs
Hi
I am looking for a watch manufacturer for coin watches .Can you please recommend somebody please
thanks
Mark
Hi Mark,
We will contact you by email!
Thank you very much
Dear Sir,
I am looking for a reliable Chinese manufacturer of watch.
I would like to start with a MOQ (the smallest possible one) for the time we will start.
I need a unique model for men or women, the will have include some specific functions lie :
– GPS inside,
– etc… (more details will be given vi private email).
Could you please help me ?
Regards,
Ary
Hi Ary,
Did you get our email?
Hello Frederick,
Thanks for a very informative article. I am in the process of starting a small unique watch company and could do with advice as to manufactures in China. I’ve contacted many, some have been great in getting back, with emails and Skype chats etc. Others not so great! Would be great if you could get in touch and offer some advice regarding trustworthy manufacturers.
Many Thanks
Waqt
Hi Waqt,
I think our team has already contacted you. I also suggest you check out our Buyer’s Guide: Watches
You can get it right here: https://www.chinaimportal.com/watches/
Can I suggest. Why don’t u create high end copy of watch like “a lange and shone “. I am sure many will love to buy
Hi Frederik,
We are a fashion brand currently operating within the UK, and are looking to expand our lineup to watches. We have some proposed designs already and basically just need somebody to make a watch and customize the face to our design.
Is this possible? How should I contact somebody for a quotation and who should I contact? I have no idea, so any help will be appreciated.
Thanks
Hi Adam,
We will get in touch with you
Hi Frederik,
Me and a partner want to start a small timepiece company branded and owned by us, we are looking for a manufacturer that can help us choose different models (doesn’t have to be a unique design) because we have an idea how it should look like. Could we keep contact through email? Please send me an mail if you are willing to discuss something.
Calvin Le Duc
ducanhkle@gmail.com
Hi,
I am looking at starting a business of selling branded watches which are fully designed by myself and partner. Could you point in the right direction in regards to suppliers on China. I have already found some through AliBaba however many do not pay enough attention to detail and many specs and design elements are incorrect.
If you can help me in anyway it would be appriciated.
Regards
Mark
Hi Fredrik,
I have been designing a range of watches to start my own business, mainly for women at the moment. I just wondered if you could help me and answer a few questions about finding a manufacturer when I can’t get to China as I’m in the UK.Who do you put your trust in? And what do they require off you in order to make your product? Does it need to be on photoshop or CAD??
Your help would be greatly appreciated
Thanks in advance
Sarah
Hi Sarah,
Dealing with overseas manufacturers is not a matter of trust, but risk management.
As for the design: Both 2D and 3D files are good. The suppliers normally make a technical drawing before making the prototype, that in turn is based what has been provided by the buyer. Hence, you don’t need to produce an entirely accurate design drawing yourself.
Hello,
I’m looking to set up my on brand of watches and I would love it if you would help me with finding suppliers and manufacturers ?
Thank you.
Hi Ferederick,
I am an upcoming watch entrepreneur and would like to speak to you about the manufacturers in China. I have dealt with a couple manufactures via emails over the past 4 years, however I am worried about my Intellectual Property. I have designed a one of a kind watch type which most of the companies are able to do, however I am sticking with my most trusted manufacturing company.
I have a lot of questions and I’m looking forward to hearing back from you.
Kind regards,
Amanda
Hi Ferederick,
Me and a partner are looking to set up a time piece brand out of the U.K., and are looking at the possiablities of using the Chinese market to source and supply these.
I am looking for a supplier to help with my ambitions and goals.
Any feed back would be gratefully appreciated.
Kind Regards,
Dom
Hi Frederick!
Did you know a place where we can make our own watches (with our designs) but without order more than 50pcs? Thanks!!
Hi Iggy,
Unfortunately I am not aware of any supplier with such a low MOQ
Hi ferederick,
Thanks a lot for give us information a bout importing,
I’v read all of your articles about import watches.I,d like to know more about the best cities & bazar of China for buying wholesale watches…could u please send me some qualification?..
Best regards
Masoud daliri
Hi Frederick,
Mayby can I get your e-mail address ? I have to you few question about manufacturing watches in China and importing them to Europe.
Or if you could e-mail my would be great.
Thanks! MAT
Hi Frederick!
We are two young guys from switzerland, who would like to start up a watch brand and need your help for finding good and reliable manufacturers.
Looking forward to hear from you
Thanks
Stelio and Sandro
Hello fredrick!
I will start some small watch brand. so maybe you could send me an mail to check some possible cooperation ways.
best regards
Simon, weinevents@live.at
Hellow Fredrick,
I am looking forward to starting a small retail business in wrist watches particularly for men. I am looking for a genuine supplier from china. I don’t need cons and that’s why i am doing this research before I make any payment. Could you please list for me a few genuine suppliers you know.
N/B its a start up business and so i do not need to do a lot of importation at the beginning but as time goes by, i am hopping to increase the volume. my email is kennymax254@gmail.com
Hellow Fredrick,
I am looking forward to starting a small retail business in wrist watches particularly for men. I am looking for a genuine supplier from china. I don’t need cons and that’s why i am doing this research before I make any payment. Could you please list for me a few genuine suppliers you know.
N/B its a start up business and so i do not need to do a lot of importation at the beginning but as time goes by, i am hopping to increase the volume. my email is kennymax254@gmail.com
Hi Fredrick, I’ve a proposal to get a new watch having geez numbers in it and its color. First I need a sample watch then I will crate the market for to make good business for your company and me. So if its possible, may I wait your respond as fast as possible?
Thank you!
Agedew
From Canada
+15877194160
Hi Fredrick,
Im starting a very innovative watch company and I need some help in finding suppliers…. If you could please help me out by replying my email or calling me at +1 9175294420 I would gladly appreciate.
Richard
Hi
I am Bryan from Singapore and i am intending to create a brand for my watches to be sold online.
Is there anyway we can have a collaboration.
My Name is Frederick I `m interested in distribution & design of new watches. contact me
Hi,
We will contact you by email
Dear chinaImportal
I have been interested in creating a watch brand and I have already made a design but I don’t have enough information on how to go about it. I was able to gain a lot from everything you wrote and I am pleased. I would appreciate if you could please mail me with additional information on how to go about it.
The email address is olagbemifisola@gmail.com.
I look forward to your reply. Thanks and Godbless
Hello Fisola,
I suggest you watch our free webinar: http://www.chinaimportal.com/webinar-a
It explains how to find the right supplier, order samples and, well, the entire process actually.
Hi Fredrik,
I have been scouring the net and reading all your articles. I have learned more in the last few nights about importing watches from reading your work than I have from any other source.
I am in the early stages of starting a micro-brand watch line of diver-style watches. I will be using standard factory cases for the first several models, and was hoping you could email me so I could ask you a few questions.
Hope to hear from you,
Shane
Hello Shane,
Happy to hear that! I’ve already replied you by email
Hi Fredrik
I’ve been doing some research into watches and already have a website started.
Would you please do me the biggest favor and share some info on the best quality watches from Chinese manufacturers. I am happy to pay a bit more because if quality is not there, the brand will suffer. Ideally looking for manufacturers that can work with designs and work towards them together.
Sorry, I see you’ve had many replies already but if i could manage to get a little bit of info from you it would be much appreciated and would hopefully set me on my way.
Kind Regards,
Jake
Hello Jake,
We will contact you by email
Hello Fredrik,
i am thinking some time now to make my own watch Brand.
this article was very helpful but i would love some more insight and guidance from you, if you are up for it feel free to send me an email.
Thanks for your time,
Stefanos.
Hello Stefanos,
first of all, did you watch our free webinar? It focus on watches, so I think you might find it useful: https://chinaimportal.easywebinar.live/webinar-a
Also, it’s very difficult to provide “general guidance”, as we would end up repeating pretty much what we wrote on the article. However, feel free to contact us, if you have any specific questions: https://www.chinaimportal.com/contact-us/
Cheers
Ivan