Complete Watches: Custom & OEM Watch Manufacturing from Design to Assembly
FTM is a custom and OEM watch manufacturer based in Hong Kong, with production in mainland China. We take your watch from the first sketch to a finished, tested product: design and prototyping, component manufacturing, assembly in Switzerland, Hong Kong or China, and quality control. We’ve made watches for 538 brands and export to 56 countries. Read more about who we are or our history since 1974.
Idea Generation
Your ideas are the foundation, and our role is to help refine and shape them into a clear, workable concept. We encourage customers to lead the creative process, while our team provides guidance, technical expertise, and practical advice to ensure the final design is both feasible and aligned with your brand identity.
For clients less familiar with design tools or materials, we can step in to create a 2D concept and suggest solutions. However, we prefer a collaborative approach—working side by side so that every detail originates from you, with our technical verification and support. This method not only saves time but ensures the product reflects your vision without unnecessary revisions. Together, we transform your ideas into designs that are distinctive, practical, and ready for production.
Product Design
Stage 1: Concept Sketches and Design Direction
This stage focuses on shaping your watch idea into a clear visual plan. We work closely with you to turn early concepts into detailed design sketches. Key details are defined early, including case size, dial structure, color choices, surface finishes, materials, and movement options.
At the end of this phase, you receive a complete design outline that clearly represents your vision and provides a strong base for development.
Stage 2: Two-Dimensional Technical Drawings
After the concept is approved, the design is converted into precise two-dimensional computer drawings. These visuals show accurate measurements, proportions, and technical details. This step helps ensure every element is reviewed carefully before moving into advanced design work.
Stage 3: Three-Dimensional Visual Models
If requested, we create three-dimensional visuals based on the approved 2-D drawings. These views allow you to see the watch from multiple angles and gain a clear sense of its structure, depth, and overall appearance.
Stage 4: Hand-Made Prototype
Before full production begins, a hand-made prototype is produced. This physical sample lets you review the size, feel, and overall look of the watch. Any final adjustments can be made at this stage to ensure the product meets your expectations.
Manufacturing
FTM works with a network of selected component suppliers in Switzerland and China. Our component range covers watch cases, dials, hands, crowns and pushers, crystals and gaskets, bands and buckles and movement customisation, with surface treatment options and diamond setting for special editions.
Coordination is the key to successful manufacturing, so we closely monitor component quality and delivery schedules. All components are checked and tested individually before leaving for assembly.
Assembly Services
We have assembly plants in Switzerland, Hong Kong, and China. You can choose from any of these plants. The majority of our price-conscious customers enjoy our prompt and reliable assembly service in Hong Kong and China.
Our own workshop in our Hong Kong office assembles mechanical and high-end quartz watches.
For Swiss assembly, we offer a Certificate of Origin issued by the Swiss Chamber of Commerce and the “Swiss Made” logo stamped on each timepiece.
Water-resistant grades are available from shower-proof to 100 ATM (professional diver grade).
Quality Control
All watches are fully checked by our Quality Control Department for functional and cosmetic quality. Every order is tested before it ships, against the international and Swiss standards you specify.
Quality Testing Facility in Our Hong Kong Office
Watch and Clock Industry Common International Testing Standards – 1
Watch and Clock Industry Common International Testing Standards – 2
Questions buyers ask
What is your minimum order quantity?
Generally 300 pieces, depending on the project.
How long does a custom watch project take?
Our standard lead times for a typical custom project are:
- Technical drawings: 20–30 days
- Technical samples: 90 days
- Mass production: 120 days
Can you make Swiss Made watches?
Yes. Watches assembled in our Swiss partner plant receive a Certificate of Origin from the Swiss Chamber of Commerce and can carry the “Swiss Made” mark. See the Swiss Made requirements.
How water-resistant can the watches be?
From shower-proof up to 100 ATM, professional diver grade.
Will my design stay confidential?
Yes. We fully respect our customers’ privacy, confidentiality and intellectual property, and we sign NDAs on request.
I’m starting a new watch brand. Can you help?
Yes. Our project incubation service supports new brands, including crowdfunding launches.
Ready to start your watch project?
Send us your brief through our technical questionnaire, or contact our team directly.
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