Swiss Watchmaker Swatch Seeks $170 Million from Samsung in Trademark Dispute

Swiss watchmaker Swatch is seeking $170 million in damages from Samsung in a long-running trademark infringement case, alleging that the South Korean technology giant allowed third-party apps to offer digital replicas of its iconic watch designs on Samsung smartwatches. The claim follows a 2022 ruling by the High Court in London, which found Samsung liable for trademark infringement involving apps that mimicked timepieces from Swatch-owned brands, including Omega and Tissot.

A British judge is now expected to decide the amount of damages, with the ruling also likely to influence a parallel legal claim against a Samsung subsidiary in the United States. The case, which began in 2019 before the United Kingdom formally exited the European Union, also covers alleged trademark infringements within the EU. Swatch has accused Samsung of the “large-scale appropriation” of its valuable trademarks, while Samsung has argued that the compensation sought is excessive and unjustified.

The legal battle comes as traditional Swiss watchmakers face increasing competition from the rapidly expanding smartwatch market dominated by companies such as Samsung, Apple, and Huawei. While Swatch offers connected products like SwatchPAY!, it has yet to introduce a full-fledged smartwatch. Swatch declined to comment on the ongoing proceedings, and Samsung had not responded to requests for comment at the time of reporting.

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