
U.S. - Watches - Market Analysis, Forecast, Size, Trends and Insights
Watch Import in America Slumps 23%, Averaging 10M Units in November 2022
U.S. Watch Imports
In November 2022, supplies from abroad of watches decreased by -23% to 10M units, falling for the third consecutive month after four months of growth. Over the period under review, imports showed a noticeable decline. The pace of growth appeared the most rapid in May 2022 when imports increased by 64% month-to-month. Imports peaked at 21M units in August 2022; however, from September 2022 to November 2022, imports remained at a lower figure.
In value terms, watch imports totaled $547M (IndexBox estimates) in November 2022. The total import value increased at an average monthly rate of +1.9% from January 2022 to November 2022; however, the trend pattern remained consistent, with only minor fluctuations being observed throughout the analyzed period. The most prominent rate of growth was recorded in September 2022 with an increase of 18% against the previous month. Over the period under review, imports reached the peak figure in November 2022.
Imports by Country
Japan (4.3M units), China (3.4M units) and Switzerland (899K units) were the main suppliers of watch imports to the United States, together comprising 83% of total imports. The Philippines, Thailand and Singapore lagged somewhat behind, together accounting for a further 15%.
From January 2022 to November 2022, the most notable rate of growth in terms of purchases, amongst the main suppliers, was attained by the Philippines (with a CAGR of +14.2%), while imports for the other leaders experienced more modest paces of growth.
In value terms, Switzerland ($468M) constituted the largest supplier of watch to the United States, comprising 86% of total imports. The second position in the ranking was held by Japan ($44M), with an 8% share of total imports. It was followed by China, with a 2.4% share.
From January 2022 to November 2022, the average monthly rate of growth in terms of value from Switzerland amounted to +2.7%. The remaining supplying countries recorded the following average monthly rates of imports growth: Japan (-2.3% per month) and China (-5.2% per month).
Imports by Type
In November 2022, plastic or non-precious metal watches (10M units) was the main type of watch supplied to the United States, with a 98% share of total imports. It was followed by wrist-watches, pocket-watches, stop-watches and other watches; with case of precious metal or of metal clad with precious metal (160K units), with a 1.5% share of total imports.
From January 2022 to November 2022, the average monthly rate of growth in terms of the volume of import of plastic or non-precious metal watches totaled -3.5%.
In value terms, plastic or non-precious metal watches ($399M) constituted the largest type of watch supplied to the United States, comprising 73% of total imports. The second position in the ranking was held by wrist-watches, pocket-watches, stop-watches and other watches; with case of precious metal or of metal clad with precious metal ($148M), with a 27% share of total imports.
Import Prices by Country
In November 2022, the watch price amounted to $52.8 per unit (CIF, US), picking up by 31% against the previous month. Overall, the import price recorded a prominent expansion. The pace of growth was the most pronounced in April 2022 an increase of 77% month-to-month. Over the period under review, average import prices hit record highs in November 2022.
There were significant differences in the average prices amongst the major supplying countries. In November 2022, the country with the highest price was Switzerland ($521 per unit), while the price for China ($3.8 per unit) was amongst the lowest.
From January 2022 to November 2022, the most notable rate of growth in terms of prices was attained by Singapore (+5.9%), while the prices for the other major suppliers experienced more modest paces of growth.
Watch Market Overview
There are a number of factors that have contributed to the current state of the watch market in the United States. Firstly, the advent of smartwatches has been a major disruptor, with many consumers opting for these devices over traditional watches. Secondly, the rise in online shopping has made it easier for consumers to purchase watches from overseas, which has led to increased competition and downward pressure on prices. Finally, the overall slowing of the economy has meant that consumers are less likely to splurge on luxury items like watches.
All of these factors have combined to create a challenging environment for watch brands operating in the United States. Many brands have been forced to rethink their strategies in order to adapt and survive. Some have turned to online sales channels, while others have focused on creating more affordable products. Whatever the approach, it is clear that the watch market in the United States is undergoing a period of change and transformation.
This report provides an in-depth analysis of the watch market in the U.S.. Within it, you will discover the latest data on market trends and opportunities by country, consumption, production and price developments, as well as the global trade (imports and exports). The forecast exhibits the market prospects through 2030.
Making Data-Driven Decisions to Grow Your Business
A Quick Overview of Market Performance
Understanding the Current State of The Market and Its Prospects
Finding New Products to Diversify Your Business
Choosing the Best Countries to Establish Your Sustainable Supply Chain
Choosing the Best Countries to Boost Your Exports
The Latest Trends and Insights into The Industry
The Largest Import Supplying Countries
The Largest Destinations for Exports
The Largest Producers on The Market and Their Profiles
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