In Response to US Tariffs, Lesser-known Watch Brands Seize the Moment to Hike Prices

In an unexpected move, smaller watch brands are capitalizing on recently established U.S. tariffs by strategically increasing their prices. This bold step is not only affecting the direct consumer market but also shaping a significant change within the watch industry’s economic paradigms.

Historically, watch companies, like most businesses, have traditionally reacted to tariffs by either absorbing the additional costs or passing them onto the customers. Smaller brands usually chose the former option due to their relatively lower scales of operation. However, the current tariffs have triggered a novel approach as these brands embrace the latter option instead.

This move raises several questions about the potential impacts on the luxury watch market – a niche that highly values craftsmanship, longevity, and, of course, uniqueness. How will consumers adjust to these price hikes? Will this ultimately lead to higher standards or simply higher price tags?