The brands like Timex, Titan and Helex which are available from Rs 1,500 awards have not simply pulled branded watch lovers but also those who want to update themselves in fashion with latest style and design to suit with their apparel. [break]
According to Janardan Adhikari, sales and service executive of Him electronics, the sole authorized distributor of Timex watch, sales of the watch has increased in the local market as they are becoming affordable to youngester-who are the major buyers of the branded products.
“Compared to the high end branded watch, people are attracted to the reasonably piced watch resulting in increased sales every year,” said Adhikari. Timex watches are available from Rs 1,500 to Rs 22,000.
According to Him electronics, around 28,000 units of Timex watches were sold in the last fiscal year 2010/11. This year, it has already sold around 21,000 units and hopes to sell around 44,000 units. "Given that major chunk of sales happen during summer season, we are confident we will meet the sales target set for the year," said Adhikari.
In a bid to realize the target, the company is also introducing around 50 models of sporty watches in multiple colors targeting to the youngsters within the next 15 days. Already Timex watches are available in more than 1,000 models in different colors.
Likewise, Nepal Trade Network (NTN) -- the sole authorized distributor of Titan watch for Nepal -- said that its sales have gone up significantly this summer season. The company which has plans to sell around 25,000 units of Titan watches this year, is currently offering around 700 models targeting male and 800 models for female customers.
The prices of female watches from Titan ranges from Rs 2,000 to Rs 40,000, whereas male models are available in range of Rs 1,711 to Rs 35,000.
"Demand of the branded watch has increased in the local market because watch has become more of a fashionable accessory than need as people do not have to depend on watch for knowing the time," said Sunil Kumar Agarwal, managing director of NTN.
Traders around the valley agreed with Agrawal and Adhikari. Branded watches are one of the most loved accessories across the world.
Indian manufacturers are presently introducing 30 to 40 new models in the Nepali market every month to cater to the varying tastes of people for different occasions. They provide 2 years warranty on the watches that can be claimed from any authorized outlets.
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