The Swiss have always been renowned for their fine craftsmanship and innovative timepieces. Their roots in watchmaking date back to the 16th century when reforms banned the wearing of jewellery forcing craftsman to turn their attention to watchmaking.
It was the Swiss invention of the first quartz watch that revolutionised the watch industry in the 60's however, the Swiss did not capitilise on this opportunity instead focusing their energies on the development of mechanical watches instead. The Swiss recognised their error and began to embrace new technology helping to create the dynamic state of the art industry watchmaking is today.
From Seiko Watches to Pulsar many major watch companies use Swiss mechanisms in their timepieces. At present Switzerland is the largest exporters of watches and their components in the world making them the global leader of the watch industry.