Platinum and palladium will be among the most popular metal choices for watches in the year ahead, Swatch has said.

Speaking to members of the press as the BaselWorld 2011 event opened, Francois Thiebaud, an executive at the watchmaker, gave his predictions for the year ahead.

According to National Jeweler, he explained that the platinum group metals will feature strongly along with pink gold and white gold as designers seek inspiration from the Art Deco period and the middle of the 20th century.

He also gave an upbeat description of the Swiss watch market, with last year's 22 per cent surge in exports continuing into the New Year.

These sentiments were echoed by Rene Kamm, chief executive officer of MCH Group.

He is reported by BaselWorld Daily News as saying that the "trough in the luxury goods industry is behind us".

Meanwhile, Jacques J Duchene, president of the BaselWorld exhibitors committee, told the official event news provider that "the signs remain excellent" for the luxury watch market.

Source:

Expectations high as BaselWorld opens (24/03/11)

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