Building Across Borders — The Manufacturing Journey

Every microbrand faces the same question sooner or later: Where should we build? For us, it wasn't just a business decision — it was a test of our values.

The China vs Switzerland Dilemma

Let's face it — China makes incredible products today. The myth of poor quality is long gone. With the right factory, you can achieve fantastic results at a fraction of the cost. But there's a catch: trust and control.

We couldn't afford to fly across continents for every batch or prototype. And many private-label manufacturers were more interested in selling us their own designs than producing ours. Some even refused custom work unless we ordered 300+ pieces. If we used their pre-made cases, there was no MOQ at all. That told us everything.

So we started looking closer to home. Switzerland offered unmatched precision and accountability — but also a much higher price tag. For a young microbrand, that could push us out of the category entirely. We needed a middle path.

The Arima Model: Swiss Quality, Smart Logistics

After talking with fellow microbrand founders, we built a hybrid production model that worked for us:

• Cases, bracelets, and packaging: Made in China
• Dials and hands: Produced by trusted Swiss suppliers
• Assembly and quality control: Done in Switzerland — just an hour's drive from our base — so we could be hands-on with every unit

This combination gave us the best of both worlds: Swiss-level precision without the unattainable price tag.

Why We Don't Chase "Swiss Made"

Could Arima watches technically qualify as Swiss Made? Maybe. But that's not our goal. Labels don't make quality; discipline does.

We wanted control — not excuses. Being able to visit our assembly site, oversee regulation, and personally check each movement mattered more than any stamp. Every watch is tested, regulated, and verified before it leaves Switzerland.

Yes, managing multiple suppliers adds complexity. It means more calls, more emails, and more logistics. But it also means we learn, improve, and stay accountable.