Türkiye’s watch market is flourishing, currently generating approximately $1.5 billion in annual revenue, with sales of around 8 million units. This data comes from the All Watch Businesspeople Association (TUSAD) and was compiled by the state-operated Anadolu Agency (AA) in connection with World Watchmaking Day, celebrated on October 10. The industry is set to grow further, reaching an estimated $2.35 billion by 2028.
Strength in Imports and Exports
The dynamics of Türkiye’s watch sector indicate a notable increase in imports. In 2025, imports surged by 14.7% to $525.4 million, with expectations to reach approximately $600 million by the year-end. A total of 7.57 million watches were imported, mainly from Switzerland, which accounted for about 71.3% of the total value and 6.8% of unit sales. Meanwhile, exports are also gaining momentum, reaching $41.4 million with a total of 349,608 watches sold abroad.
A Vibrant Market for Timepieces
As TUSAD’s chairman, Ahmet Aydin, points out, Türkiye’s watch market is highly dynamic, characterized by a strong desire for both luxury and functional timepieces. “Men and women alike have a keen interest in acquiring watches, not just as accessories but also as popular gift options,” Aydin explains. The allure of storytelling behind various brands significantly enhances this interest, solidifying Türkiye’s position as a promising market.
However, Aydin notes that local watch manufacturing is minimal, with countries such as Switzerland and Japan dominating the field. The estimated market volume for timepieces in Türkiye stands at roughly $1.5 billion for 2025, with projections indicating a potential growth to $2.35 billion by 2028. The market currently accommodates about 8,000 retailers engaged in the sale and servicing of watches, with particular demand for high-end luxury models found predominantly in major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.
World Watchmaking Day Initiative
The idea for World Watchmaking Day originated in Türkiye, proposed by Cagri Gundogdu, a member of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce’s Opticians and Watchmakers Professional Committee. Officially celebrated for the first time on October 10, 2025, this day highlights the craftsmanship in the watchmaking industry. Gundogdu emphasizes the aesthetic importance of showcasing watches at “10 past 10” to capture public interest, leading to the initiative gaining traction globally.
Notably, the day has garnered attention from around 15 countries including the United States and various European nations, with events coordinated to celebrate the artistry and history of watchmaking. Initiatives to push for UNESCO recognition as a cultural heritage are also underway, emphasizing the significance of watchmaking in Türkiye’s cultural narrative.
Emerging Trends in the Market
Recent consumer trends show a revival of interest in vintage watches alongside the rise of micro-brands that bring innovation to the sector. Gundogdu notes that despite the technological age, the watch industry manages to maintain a unique appeal for old-school craftsmanship, in stark contrast to other sectors where the demand for older technology has declined.
Furthermore, to bolster the industry, efforts have been made to establish educational foundations in watchmaking. A school in Bursa is now training the next generation of watchmakers, including female students who are venturing into this niche domain. The potential to form vocational programs within universities aims to nurture future technicians and artisans for the growing watch sector. Overall, Türkiye’s watch industry is on a compelling upward trajectory, blending tradition with modernity.