watchmaker

Watch exports spiked in July before the higher tariffs entered into force but then fell by 23.9 percent in August and 55.6 percent in September, according to the country's watchmakers' association.

The Swiss jeweler and watchmaker said Friday that sales for its fiscal second quarter ended Sept. 30 climbed 14% from the same period a year earlier at constant exchange rates.

Several well-known collectors, dealers and watchmakers were in the room to witness the sale at the Hotel President in Geneva.

That question sparked a years-long conversation during which the watchmaker grappled with how to indicate the 12 hours of the dial using just five fingers.

Overall, goods exports from Switzerland to the U.S. increased 43% last month, according to Swiss government data also released Tuesday, suggesting the downturn for watchmakers hinged on issues specific to the industry.