Swiss Watch Exports to USA Drop Nearly 50% in February
The Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry reports that the value of Swiss watch exports to the U.S. market declined in February by 47.5% compared with February 2008 levels. For the first two months of 2009, the value of exports to the U.S.A. is down 38% compared with the same period last year. Hardest hit were watches priced at 500 to 3000 Swiss francs (about $445 to $2670 at press time), sales of which were down by more than 40% in terms of both units and value. Exports of watches priced at 200 to 500 francs or $178 to $445 were down about 33%.Watches priced above 3000 francs fared best, registering a decline of 6.6% by value and a bit over 10% in units. Based on materials, as might be expected, steel watches were the hardest hit with exports down about 29% based on units and value. Gold/steel bimetallic watches were off about 37% based on units and value. Exports of platinum watches increased 9.7% by value while falling 13% measured in units. Looking at the bigger picture, Switzerla

Picked up the black calf and ceramic/Ti deployment for the dsotm.
Finally picked up the black leather calf with white stitching and Ceramic/Ti buckle. It fits great and more balanced on the wrist then the nylon band. Also the deployment buckle makes it much easier to take the watch on and off.image.jpg

Alligator?
Does anyone know how much a OEM alligator strap with deployment clasp would cost from an AD for a Speedmaster Pro? I looked at Otto Frei and it looks way over-priced plus they will not ship exotic hides internationally. Any other sources for these?

Nautilus Stainless Steel Bracelet question
Dear friends,I have some questions regarding SS bracelet for nautilus :1. Are the SS bracelet for 5711/5712/3712 interchangeable ?2. The ss bracelet for my 3712 1/A has many scratches: (a) where can I get it cleaned up and polished? (b) Will Patek sell me a new bracelet ? If yes, how much?Thank you friends!

What would you get
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