The wording “Swiss Made” was formally adopted by Swiss watch brands in the 19th century. On some older Swiss Made watches, the word “Swiss” is used alone and placed right on the dial. Other terms like “Suisse” and “Swiss Movement” are also used.

In January of 2017, new regulations in Switzerland were put in place to protect luxury watchmakers and the “Swiss Made” label. New regulations now scrutinize which brands qualify as “Swiss Made”.

Based on the new “Swissness” bill, 60 percent of a watch’s manufacturing must occur in the country. This is a stricter regulation compared to the Swiss Made bill codified in 1971.

Brands want to be labeled as “Swiss Made” because it represents a standard quality and performance not found anywhere else in the world. It is extremely attractive to those who want to buy luxury watches and, for decades, has been a magnet for foreign direct investment.  Unfortunately, this label has become a selling point for lower cost brands. With the new regulations, low-cost brands will likely abandon the label.

It is argued that Swiss Made watches operating under the new law will not only guarantee quality but will also ensure domestic investment from the watchmaking industry.

Take a look at some of the hottest Swiss luxury brands below. 

Hublot

Swiss luxury watchmaker Hublot is known for combining gold and rubber in its watches. Each wristwatch from the brand is durable, stylish, and adaptable. A sought after brand because of its design, Hublot is a fine choice if you are looking for a modern watch.

Apart from the distinctive porthole shape of a Hublot and the rubber rim that complements its dials, the band of every Hublot watch conforms to the wrist of the person wearing it. Every watch made by the brand is comfortable and almost weightless, which explains why it has always been the go-to choice for sportsmen and individuals who always work with their hands. 

Audemars Piguet is synonymous with luxury and prestige. Founded by Edward-Auguste Piguet and Jules-Louis Audemars in 1875, the brand is among the best and most luxurious Swiss Made brands around. A leader when it comes to trends, it is noted for making the first steel sports watch. Audemars Piguet also produced the first oversized watch in 1993.

Unlike other Swiss brands, the company is still owned by the families of its founders. The luxury brand supplies its movements to Bulgari and Cartier. That alone says a lot. 

Founded by Ulysse Nardin in the year 1846, the brand of the same name still makes its watches in the original place where the first Ulysse Nardin watch was made. Operating even during the two World Wars, the Swiss brand still holds its office in Le Locle, the place where it was founded.

A leader in marine chronometers, Ulysse Nardin has produced a range of wristwatches that are distinctive and visually appealing. Known for working with modernized materials, the brand often gives its watches unique leather bands in a range of colors.