It's now a case of size matters in the watch industry, both for manufacturers and for retailers. The UK-based Watches of Switzerland Group is an excellent example, as its share price confirms.

The strong growth and healthy earnings projection from Watches of Switzerland, the world's second-largest retailer, offer a ray of sunshine.

Eight months of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong have put paid to the region's status as the number-one market for Swiss watch exports, overtaken by the United States in January. The coronavirus outbreak is likely to have further impact in the first half-year.

Rolex is one of the most prevalent and powerful brands of the past century. Though its presence spans globally, it is a particularly potent force in the United States. From strategic partnerships to strategic business moves, Rolex has carefully positioned itself at the centre of American culture, resulting in one of its top markets worldwide.

Since summer, A. Lange & Söhne watches can be enjoyed at Bahnhofstrasse 25, Zurich, where the Saxon brand has opened its first own-name store in Switzerland.

Bucherer's newly-opened Gallery in Geneva is entirely focused on pre-owned watches. As well as buying and selling, this lounge space will host events aimed at renewing the purchasing experience for a new generation of watch enthusiasts, through a concept Bucherer plans to roll out to other locations.

Dietlin Swiss Showcases has made its name in the luxury segment thanks to its revolutionary display cases. The 165-year-old company, which employs 15 people, is bringing the staid world of watch distribution into the twenty-first century – at last!