India is rapidly emerging as a pivotal growth engine for the global luxury watch industry. While established markets in Europe and North America contend with stagnant or declining sales, watchmakers worldwide are increasingly turning their attention to the subcontinent, recognizing its burgeoning consumer base and robust economic outlook.
India's Growing Appeal to Global Watchmakers
The shift in focus is evident through strategic product launches and expanded retail presence. Luxury brands are not just entering the market; they are actively tailoring offerings to resonate with Indian culture and consumer preferences. This strategic approach highlights India's significance as a bright spot for an industry often dependent on heritage and exclusivity.
Jacob & Co. Unveils India-Exclusive Timepiece
A prime example of this intensified interest is the Jacob & Co. Epic X Mahadev Edition, an exclusive limited-edition timepiece launched in September 2026. This mechanical watch, priced at an impressive Rs. 35.88 lakh, was created specifically for the Indian market.
“I don’t wear a watch to tell the time. I wear it as an object.”
— Andy Warhol, American Artist
The Epic X Mahadev Edition draws profound inspiration from Lord Shiva, incorporating intricate imagery such as the trishul, damru, and the sacred Om symbol into its sophisticated skeletonised dial. Housed in a 44-mm titanium case, the watch is exclusively available through luxury watch retailer Ethos, underscoring the bespoke nature of these high-end offerings for Indian clientele.
A Market Driven by Desire, Not Just Time
As Andy Warhol famously observed, a watch transcends its function as a time-telling device; it becomes an object of desire, a statement. In India, this sentiment is fueling a robust demand for luxury timepieces, driven by rising disposable incomes, a growing appreciation for craftsmanship, and the aspirational value associated with global luxury brands. The sustained interest from prestigious watchmakers like Jacob & Co. reaffirms India's position as a dynamic and increasingly indispensable market for the future of luxury watches.