On the day of this writing, one U.S. dollar is roughly equally to one Swiss franc.

Swiss watch exports fell 2.8% in December, the second monthly fall in the year, following a decline in September. In December, exports totaled 1.6 billion francs, bringing the final export total in 2018 to 21.2 billion francs, an increase of 6.3% over 2017. Overall, exports are up for the second consecutive year, but still short of the high-water mark set in 2015.

Continuing a trend we reported in December, bimetal (gold-steel) watches recorded another increase in December, growing 3.1% year-over-year. The total number of items (watches) exported fell by 10% for the third consecutive month, as high-priced watches remained the only source of growth and stability in the industry.

Above 500 francs, export turnover was stable, with the 500-3,000 francs and 3,000+ francs categories reporting stable growth, and the 3,000+ francs category even seeing an increase in units sold. The 200-500 francs category was hit the hardest, seeing a 20% decline in sales year-over-year.