ON INDIAN TIME

As Switzerland remains the undisputed leader in haute horlogerie, India quietly emerges with a unique blend of tradition, modernity and compelling narratives. We look at how Indian watch companies are quietly carving their place in the global watchmaking scene, drawing global attention to a new centre of craftsmanship.

- ANANDHI GOPINATH

Haute horlogerie has long been dominated by Swiss and German maisons, renowned for their precision engineering and timeless craftsmanship. British watchmakers, too, contribute a rich heritage with centuries of horological history. However, in recent years, the watchmaking landscape has expanded remarkably, with other nations emerging as formidable players. For example, Japan has earned a reputation for innovation and reliability, while the Germans are known for the meticulousness in their processes.

While India is some way from establishing a timekeeping industry on the scale of its fellow Asian nations, there is growing interest in its development. At present, a rising affluent class expected to reach 100 million people by 2027 - is driving demand for watches, both Swiss-made and locally produced. India's domestic market for timekeepers has historically been focused inward, but a younger generation of entrepreneurs now sees a future beyond collecting brands with foreign names on the dials.

In terms of the local luxury industry, the stage is set homegrown brands across various sectors are gaining international recognition for their unique blend of tradition and innovation. In skincare, brands like Forest Essentials and Kama Ayurveda have merged ancient Ayurvedic practices with modern luxury, earning acclaim for their authenticity and quality. In fashion, designers such as Sabyasachi Mukherjee and Manish Malhotra have brought Indian craftsmanship to global runways, showcasing traditional textiles and embroidery in contemporary designs. Similarly, brands like Fabindia and Amrapali have promoted Indian heritage through textiles and jewellery. Unexpectedly, India has also seen success in spirits: the Rampur Asava Indian Single Malt Whisky was awarded Best World Whisky at the 2023 John Barleycorn Awards, while Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin won Double Gold at this year's Bartender's Spirit Awards.