antique clocks

Seventy percent of global clock supply is produced in China, where 1,000 small-to-large suppliers make a full range of antique clocks and digital clocks. Production (including antique clocks) is based almost entirely in Guangdong province, and consists mainly of low-end premiums models. Basic quartz analog wall and table clocks (including antique clocks) currently lead output with a 37 percent share, with multifunction digital models second at 21 percent. Next year, expect multifunction digital clocks and novelty decorative quartz analog clocks to grow to prominence as makers consider these two categories have the best export growth potential. The market is already saturated with low-cost quartz analog clocks, which go for as little as 20 cents in Fujian province. In addition, the cost of producing an analog clock has increased to levels where clock manufacturers either have to cut profit margins or raise product prices. China exported US$450.3 million worth of clocks (including antique clocks) in 2003. The United States is the single biggest importer, with shipments averaging at US$11.2 million a month, representing a one third share of China's total exports. The European Union is a close second with 28 percent.