Swiss watchmaker Swatch (UHR.S) has released a special collector's edition watch with... the numbers 3 and 9 reversed on the dial. A watch as a satirical comment on the 39% tariffs. That is, tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump on imports from Switzerland in August.
Shock in Switzerland
The tariffs are among the highest imposed by the Trump administration worldwide. They came as a shock to the country, a leading producer of both expensive watches and luxury goods.
The new model, called «WHAT IF...TARIFFS?», costs 139 Swiss francs, or about 175 dollars. It was put into circulation but only in Switzerland. According to a company spokesman, the watch was created with a «humorous spirit». But also as a message to the Swiss government, which has not yet succeeded in achieving a reduction in tariffs.
An «ephemeral» product
Swatch stresses that the watch is intended to have a short commercial life. «As soon as the US changes its policy on tariffs in Switzerland, we will immediately stop production.» Said the company spokesman.
However, although he did not reveal how many pieces have been sold, he described the model as a «huge success».
Increased demand
The official Swatch website warns of possible 1-2 week delays in delivery due to «very high demand». The watch is also available at around 12 Swatch stores, including those at Zurich and Geneva airports.
The negotiations with the USA
The Swiss government continues to negotiate with Washington to reduce tariffs. US Commerce Secretary Howard Latnik appeared optimistic, telling CNBC, «We will probably reach an agreement with Switzerland.».
Source: tovima.gr
