Estimated reading time: 12 minutes
Are you considering importing watches or sourcing smartwatches from China? If so, you are to fasten your sit belts and get ready for an incredible ride through the universe of watches! Do not confuse it with an easy one though.
You must assess in advance the cities in China where You can purchase the specific watch that You have in mind, as well as learn about the possibilities in order not to be deceived when interacting with watch suppliers.
If you are new to this line of business or looking for experts to help assist you in this journey, then this simple guide will help you through the whole process from the selection of the correct manufacturer to the shipping of your products.
Before that, let’s take a look at the service manager in Owlsourcing, David’s opinion.
“As the Service Manager at Owlsourcing,
Sourcing watches from China, whether classy or smart watches, is ideal for the company. China is especially famous in watch production and you can get all models of good quality watches at affordable prices there.
This allows us to keep our prices accessible which in turn improves brand perception and the overall customer experience.
However, it is necessary to mention that potential risks should be managed in the high-quality products and vendor selection.“
Top 10 Watch Manufacturers & Suppliers in China (2025)
| Manufacturer | Location | Specialization | Key Features | MOQ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seagull Watch | Tianjin | Mechanical watch manufacturing | Leading Chinese mechanical watch brand, with global recognition | High demand, varies |
| Montrichard | Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Switzerland | Luxury & Swiss-made watches | Swiss certification, ideal for established brands | 500 pcs |
| Watchessy | China | OEM & ODM watch manufacturing | Works with Swiss Sellita, Miyota, and Seiko movements; fully customizable | 300 pcs |
| Istarmax | Shenzhen | Smartwatches | Strong R&D investment, patented technology | Varies by model |
| Skmei | Guangdong | Affordable & diverse watches | 4000+ SKU, supports dropshipping & low MOQ | Flexible MOQ |
| 3Wells Watch | Hong Kong & Shenzhen | Stainless steel watches | Swiss-made expertise, ISO9001 & Q-Mark certified | Customizable |
| Meigeer Watch | Shenzhen | High-volume watch production | Competitive pricing, OEM & ODM services | 300-500 pcs |
| Zh Watch | Shenzhen | Custom watch design & production | Strong IP protection, custom designs based on budget | Customization options |
| MPI | Hong Kong & Shenzhen | Watch accessories & finished watches | 50+ years of expertise, strict quality control | Customizable |
| Yonghongzb | Guangzhou | Watch design & mass production | High production capacity, rapid turnaround | Large-scale |
How to Choose the Best Watches Manufacturer in China?
So next question: There are many watch manufacturers in China, how do you find the best watch supplier in China?
Please pay attention to this step as some Chinese suppliers may ignore your message. Even deceive you with some lies!
It was a very scary experience. So I hope you can avoid these risks. For this reason, I provide you with the following steps to help you find the best watch manufacturer.
Step 1: Establish your Requirements
Before you begin your search for a watch manufacturer in China, it is important to know what you want in terms of product specifications, watch movements, design customization options, straps, and product packaging.
Analyse tooling costs as well as unit prices which will guide you on how to link the budget with the perfect watch manufacturer.
Step 2: Research and Shortlisting
Conduct detailed online research using industry directories or trade platforms to find Chinese watch manufacturers that fit your criteria.
Look at their reputation, experience, production capacity, and certifications in the watch industry.
Step 3: Confirm the Watch Manufacturer Step by Step
At least when shortlisted among potential Chinese manufacturers of wristwatches, they must be examined carefully.
Verify if their watches are good by requesting samples of their watches from them.
Additionally; find out about their abilities of making these watches as well as producing process and quality control measures applied by each company while ensuring that those watches are made according to the standards observed in this business such as RoHS, CA Prop 65, CPSIA, and REACH.
This depends on where you decide to sell the final watches.
Step 4: Communication and Trust
Make sure that you establish open lines of communication with your selected group of watch manufacturers.
Effective communication is the key to ensuring that your desires are appreciated and satisfied. Thus, it is important to build a trusting relationship between the buyer and seller for smooth collaboration all along the process of smartwatch importation.
Step 5: Visit the China Watch Factory on-site
In case you have an opportunity, plan a trip to China where the manufacturer’s facility of that type exists.
This visit will allow you to look at their infrastructure which they use in making watches, meet those who make them for you, and get confidence in their ability to meet your needs.
Owlsourcing team can support you in doing the on-site factory visit and evaluation.
Source Quality Watches from China with the Help of a Reliable China Sourcing Company
Sourcing watches through a China sourcing agent simplifies buying, secures quality control, and puts a partner in place for price negotiations with manufacturers.
Why Partner with a China Sourcing Agent?
✔ Direct Access to Verified Watch Suppliers
Contact verified suppliers specializing in the manufacture of luxury mechanical watches, smartwatches, and lower-priced quartz watches.
✔ Full Customization & OEM/ODM Services
Brand your watches with your own logo, select the movement, choose the best material, and private-label packaging.
✔ Strict Quality Control & Compliance
Guarantee CE, RoHS, and FCC standards, factory audits, and pre-shipment inspections.
✔ Better Pricing & MOQ Management
Leverage industry expertise in negotiating competitive rates, optimizing production costs, and managing MOQs efficiently.
✔ Seamless Logistics & Shipping
From freight forwarding to customs clearance, a sourcing company ensures smooth, on-time deliveries.
Start Sourcing Watches with Confidence
Import top watches in the best possible ways from China into your businesses; Owlsourcing takes full-cycle responsibility in accomplishing selection for you all the way from manufacturers to on-final delivery products. Contact today!
What Are the Watch Markets in China?
A technological marvel and a global economic powerhouse, China boasts vibrant watch markets across its cities.
To succeed in this dynamic landscape, it’s essential to understand the current trends and identify your niche within the market.
The Chinese watch market is experiencing a surge in demand for smartwatches due to their multifunctionality and integration with smartphones and other devices.
Traditional mechanical watches also continue to captivate consumers who appreciate exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance.
Watch Market Trend’s increase in health awareness among consumers across the world has resulted in increased consumer spending on health monitoring gadgets.
This has further led to the increased sales of smartwatches owing to the inclusion of various health monitoring features in such watches.
Data from Mordorintelligence
Where is the Wholesale Watch Market in China?
The primary locations of the Wholesale Watch Market in China are Guangzhou and Yiwu.
A) Guangzhou Watch Market: One of the largest wholesale watch markets is located in Guangzhou, which is also known as the watch capital of China.
The Guangzhou Watch Market encompasses a part of the larger Guangzhou Zhanxi Road Clothing & Accessories Wholesale Market area.
It hosts a variety of local and international watch brands offering products ranging from opulent to economical. This market is situated on Zhan Xi Road and can be easily accessed using public means.
B) Yiwu International Trade City (Futian Market): Yiwu, an area located in Zhejiang Province, has gained recognition due to its small commodity trade and dynamic marketplaces.
The Yiwu International Trade City’s watch & clock section is home to numerous wristwatches such as designer watches, sports watches, branded watches, and children’s varieties.
Its marketplace is known to have diverse product lines available making it an ideal choice for many global customers who want to buy clocks at wholesale prices.
How to Find a Reliable Watch Supplier?
Maybe you are worried about being cheated by Chinese suppliers. Well, this is a situation to consider.
China Watch Wholesale Market has many watch suppliers, but how to find a trustworthy supplier? Here are some methods to help you.
1) By B2B Platforms Filter Features
Do you know? Such platforms including AliExpress, Made in China, and Global Sources are armoured with thorough screening tools.
These tools will assist you in finding a suitable supplier out of a group of overall suppliers.
This way, you can apply the filters to your searches, and you can search according to criteria such as location, certification, minimum order quantity, and response rate.
Certificates such as ISO 9001 show that the supplier is therefore committed to quality Management principles; A high response rate indicates that the supplier is customer-oriented.
Also, you can filter them based on the years in business which can aid in identifying stable suppliers with verifiable track records.
2) Attend Trade Shows About Watches
It is beneficial to attend trade shows to search for Chinese watch suppliers. In such drop-shipping platforms, you can directly connect with watch producers and dealers.
Watch design, technology, and production capabilities are all on display in our store right now.
For instance, the Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair is the largest event of that genre around. The exhibition brings hundreds of Chinese and international dealers.
Major watch trade shows scheduled in Hong Kong for 2025:
| Event Name | Date | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair 2025 | September 2–6, 2025 | Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre | The world’s premier event for the watch and clock industry, showcasing a comprehensive range of timepieces, components, and industry innovations. |
| Hong Kong Watch Guild Show #108 | March 2–3, 2025 | BP International – Gordon Wu Hall | A gathering for watch enthusiasts and traders, featuring a variety of watches and related accessories. |
| Hong Kong Watch Guild Show #109 | May 14, 2025 | BP International – Gordon Wu Hall | Another instalment of the Hong Kong Watch Guild Show offers opportunities for collectors and dealers to connect. |
| Hong Kong Watch Guild Show #110 | June 18, 2025 | BP International – Gordon Wu Hall | A mid-year event for watch aficionados to explore and trade timepieces. |
| Hong Kong Watch Guild Show #111 | July 16, 2025 | BP International – Gordon Wu Hall | A summer edition of the recurring watch trade event in Hong Kong. |
| Hong Kong Watch Guild Show #112 | September 15–16, 2025 | BP International – Gordon Wu Hall | Coinciding with the major HKTDC fair, this event provides additional opportunities for watch trading. |
| Hong Kong Watch Guild Show #113 | October 15, 2025 | BP International – Gordon Wu Hall | An autumn gathering for watch collectors and industry professionals. |
| Hong Kong Watch Guild Show #114 | November 12, 2025 | BP International – Gordon Wu Hall | A late-year event to explore a diverse range of timepieces. |
| Hong Kong Watch Guild Show #115 | December 10, 2025 | BP International – Gordon Wu Hall | The final watch trade event of the year in Hong Kong, wrapping up the annual series. |
These visitations to trade shows will give you the ability to ask specific questions such as the production processes, quality control measures, and customization available from the watch manufacturers.
Such a personal relationship can serve as a basis for you to assess their moral principles and quality.
3) Check Supplier Profiles and Reviews
The Internet connects the entire world. You can find all the information about the company by searching on Google.
You can see when the company was founded, its main products, and its reputation. By checking a supplier profile and customer reviews, you can get a better idea of whether it’s worth working with them.
4) Request Samples to Check Product Quality
Ordering some samples to test the quality of the products is of utmost importance to find reliable Chinese watch suppliers.
It’s a very good way to check the supplier’s information about their products and one can also determine the uniformity between various batches of the same product.
During ordering, the supplier and you need to have clear correspondence about the product’s features and preferences.
This involves referring to the expenses that are incurred in getting the samples, for some of the suppliers may give them free of charge and others might charge a fee. For further information, read this article: Buying Product Samples from China
Also, having many samples from different suppliers permits comparison and thereby helps to ensure the best quality-price ratio.
The sample ordering and evaluation process can also help determine the supplier’s customer service, response, and ability to satisfy you.
It is a practical check of the supplier’s reputation and the quality of their communication which are critical quality factors for a fruitful long-term cooperation.
Pay attention to the promptness with which they respond to your needs, the level of detail they use when communicating as well as their willingness to adjust to your special requests.
This interaction could not only show a supplier’s knowledge of their field but also their capability to give a helping hand and assistance during the purchasing process.
Through an appropriate examination of samples and the responsiveness of the supplier, you can make an informed choice about whether to order more and the risk of disappointment with end products is much less.
EU Watch Import Compliance & Duties
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| CE Certification & Compliance | The CE marking is required for most products in the EU market, indicating compliance with safety, health, and environmental standards. Importers must obtain a Declaration of Conformity (DoC) to legally sell watches in the EU. |
| Required Import Documents | – Declaration of Conformity – CE Certificate – Packing List – Commercial Invoice |
| Regulatory Standards | Watches must meet EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) and RoHS directives. Smartwatches for children may require additional compliance under the Toys Directive. |
| Manufacturer Verification | Before purchasing, ensure the supplier has all required certifications. Also, check duty rates in ISZTAR or TARIC systems to calculate import costs. |
| Sample EU Duty Rates | – Watch movements (electronic or mechanical) – 4.7% – Automatic watches – 4.5% – Electrically powered watches – 4.5% – Precious metal watch cases – €0.5–4.6 per unit – Watch straps (precious metal) – 2.7% – Watch straps (metal clad with precious metal) – 3.7% – Shields & springs – 2.7–3.7% – Timers & timer recorders – 4.7% |
Importing Watches to the USA
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Customs Fees & Duties | – Import fees can be high, especially for luxury watches over $10,000. – Some exemptions apply but watches priced between $100-$1,600 may be duty-free in certain cases. – The Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) applies to watches over $2,000 at a rate of 0.21%. |
| Duty Calculation Factors | – Duty is based on separate components: movement, case, and bracelet/strap. – Quartz and mechanical watches are taxed differently. – Material (e.g., leather, metal, textile) affects duty rates. |
| Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) Codes & Rates | – HTS Code 9102.21.70 covers common automatic watches: – Movement: Flat fee of $1.53 – Case: 4.2% duty – Bracelet/Band: 9.8% (textile/metal), 2% (other materials) – Example Rolex Import Cost: – If the most value is declared under movement → Lower duty (2.15%) – If value is declared under case & bracelet → Higher duty (4.68%) |
| Import Regulations | – Valuation: Declared value is divided among movement, case, and strap/band. – Lab Testing: Children’s watches require third-party testing by a CPSC-approved lab. – Agency Compliance: Must meet regulations from FDA, CPSC, and APHIS. |
| Duties & Tax Payment | – Import duties range from 0% to 37.5%, depending on materials and classification. – Duties may be paid via mail carrier, courier, or directly to CBP. – Use the U.S. International Trade Commission-Tariff Database to estimate duty rates. |
| Leather Strap Consideration | – Importing watches with leather straps can be more complex due to additional regulations. – Recommended to source leather-band watches within the U.S. to avoid complications. |
5) Note: These methods are indeed effective, but they have a very serious drawback — they cost you time. But if you contact a Chinese sourcing agent you will find that they can easily help you with this.
Owlsourcing is a sourcing agent and global supply chain provider. We provide comprehensive logistics support and product procurement services to ensure smooth delivery of products from suppliers to your hands.
And our emphasis on quality control aims to ensure that the products we source meet the highest standards.
Owlsourcing specializes in helping import goods and provides services such as understanding tariffs on imports from China, the importance of purchase orders and proforma invoices, and providing insights into sourcing products from China.
If you are considering importing watches or other products from China, contact us and we can provide you with unique advice.
Why Choose to Import Watches from China?
If you don’t know yet the reason for importing watches from China. This may make you wonder. But if you do, you’ll get a lot of benefits.
China was the top exporter of wrist watches of any country worldwide in 2022. In that year, China exported 540.5 million watches. This was an increase of over 110 million dollars compared to the previous year.
Data from Statista
China has particularly cemented its role as a production hub for watches. The skills, cost, and capability of production of the country make it appealing to the owners and businessmen who wish to import watches.
To the smartwatch importer, the Amazon brand watch seller, the e-commerce brand watch retailer, and the watch wholesaler, the idea of venturing into the business of imported watches from China can open up new frontiers for growth.
1. Chinese Suppliers Have Unparalleled Expertise and Craftsmanship
Chinese manufacturers have been producing watches for many decades now and they have perfected this art.
As a traditional Chinese craft that follows horology closely, they present well-polished engineering skills comparable to other renowned brands globally.
2. Importing Watches from China Could Bring You More Profit
Businesses prefer importing watches from China because this country provides affordable prices for timepieces rooted in cheap labour and effective production.
This is a benefit that can help entrepreneurs achieve high profit margins while allowing the customers to cope with the high-end products and services.
3. The Chinese Watch Market Has a Wide Range of Product Types
Chinese manufacturers cater to a wide range of preferences by producing various types of watches such as mechanical watches, quartz watches, smartwatches, and more.
This extensive selection ensures that you can find the perfect timepiece to meet your target audience’s demands.
Read More:
Final Thoughts
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve covered everything you need to know to import watches from China successfully.
So, get ready to dive into the world of horology and embark on your exciting business journey!
6 thoughts on “How to Import Watches from China?”
Hello,
I’ve come across your excellent article.
I’m currently in search of a reliable contact who can provide assistance with crucial decisions related to Chinese suppliers. Would you be able to offer guidance on this matter?
Hello, Julio! Thank you for your comment! If you need assistance with crucial decisions related to Chinese suppliers, feel free to contact us anytime. We’re here to help guide you through the process. Looking forward to assisting you!
Hello,
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your article – it was excellent! I’m currently in search of ODM & OEM watch suppliers. I have a specific design in mind, complete with my own logo on the watch face and a genuine leather wristband. There are precise specifications I’d like to discuss as well. As I’m based in Brazil, it’s crucial that the suppliers are capable of shipping to Brazil.
Thanks for your comment, Taylor! When looking for ODM & OEM watch suppliers, feel free to contact us. We can help you find a supplier that matches your design needs and provide shipping services to Brazil. We look forward to working with you to discuss your specification requirements in detail.
It covers everything from finding reliable suppliers to navigating the logistics and regulations involved in the process. As someone interested in importing Watches from China, I found this article extremely helpful and informative.
Thank you very much for your positive feedback and recognition! Knowing that you are interested in importing watches from China, I am happy to provide you with valuable information and guidance.
If you have further questions or need more specific advice, such as how to evaluate the credibility of suppliers, understand tariff policies, or how optimize logistics arrangements, please feel free to leave a message or contact me directly.