Since the early 1980s the watch market has moved form the substantial use of mechanical movement so the predominance of battery-powered quartz crystal watches. Watches with quart movements now account for over 90 per cent of sales volume and 75 per cent of value. Watches with analogue dials account for over 85 cent of sales volume and 90 per cent of value, with the balance being models with LCD digital displays. Almost all UK demand is met by imports. Although net imports tend to be in the range 20-25 mn watches a year, retail sales are estimated at just over 16 mn watches, with a value of f545 mn. The balance is attributed to incentive gifts and promotions. The market is growing at 3-4 per cent a year in volume terms and at 4-5 per cent a year in value.
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