Watch History (I need a lesson)

[Israguard]

Hi everyone,
I need a lesson from many of the more knowledgable folks here. As my very limited knowledge expands I am noticing more and more German made brands. I was told by a Friend (and this is where I draw on your knowledge for help) that upto WWII Germany was the leader in watch making & its only during the last 10 years or so that Germany has begun coming back very strong. During their absence it was the Swiss who took over the industry.

Just curious if this is the case and any other info anyone cares to contribute would be very much appreciated.

Tks, Shawn

[Maxfli]

Bumping this because I'd also like to know the answer to his question.

[kilyung]

I guess it depends on what you mean by "leader". Both Germany and Switzerland have storied traditions in horology. However don't forget to include Italy and France in sharing in some horological significance. Having said that, there's always been a greater concentration of horological work in Switzerland than Germany - prior to and post WWII.

[joe100]

Originally Posted by kilyung

I guess it depends on what you mean by "leader". Both Germany and Switzerland have storied traditions in horology. However don't forget to include Italy and France in sharing in some horological significance. Having said that, there's always been a greater concentration of horological work in Switzerland than Germany - prior to and post WWII.

Not to mention the long dead American brands. For a while, the U.S. was a major player too

[Presa canary]

Originally Posted by joe100

Not to mention the long dead American brands. For a while, the U.S. was a major player too

Exactly... Actually America was the frontrunner

[T. Ferguson]

You could throw Japan in the mix too as long as we're at it.

[Israguard]

Thank you all for your input.. I'm learning..

[Malak]

1951 were all manufactories in Glashütte expropriates. These were compulsion united to VEB GUB.

http://watch-wiki.org/index.php?titl...e_%28GUB%29/en