By Silke Koltrowitz and Astrid Wendlandt GENEVA (Reuters) – Big luxury watchmakers at the Geneva fair this week displayed little risk and extravagance in terms of style, focusing on classics and neo-vintage models and leaving it to smaller rivals to stand out with original and bold designs. With demand falling from Chinese, Russians and Middle Eastern customers, pushing the industry into its worst downturn since the 2008-2009 financial crisis, big watch labels sought to reassure customers searching for lasting value for money, executives told Reuters. “Today, people search for authenticity, real values and craftsmanship,” said Christian Selmoni at Richemont’s Vacheron Constantin, a top selling brand among wealthy Chinese, as are Rolex and Patek Philippe.
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Big luxury watchmakers leave boldness to smaller rivals