Sure, we can glance at our smartphones to check the time. But most people do not have their devices glued onto them 24/7, and like to see what time it is for any of a myriad of reasons. According to Lauren DeSantis of Victorinox Swiss Army, the average person who wears a watch looks at the watch about 40 times per day. “That’s 40 times they will remember who gave it to them,” she emphasizes.
There are many reasons to compel your clients to consider watches as part of an overall promotional and incentive program to retain employees and reward outstanding vendors, clients, etc.
Adrienne Forrest of Bulova Corp. says, “A customized watch or clock becomes a constant reminder of a job well done or task completed which the recipient accomplished in order to receive the gift.”
Andrew Goranson of Kronex Global explains, “Watches make great sense in a corporate awards or incentive program because they are very functional both as a timepiece and a fashion accessory. Unlike other traditional award and recognition products, watches are wearables which serve as a reminder of the recognition every time they are worn.”
Goranson’s observations can be used in the product pitch. Forrest also points out that in today’s world where many people don’t believe they need a timepiece, watches and clocks can be used in programs as heirloom items to be passed from generation to generation.
Rewards that showcase prestige (and that is affordable for the client) will be not only worn but shown off. Explains DeSantis, “The hardest working employees and the most loyal customers are the ones that feel the most valued. Give them a brand and a design that truly conveys appreciation, and you can be sure they'll never forget it. A watch provides an ability to very easily share the recognition associated with the watch with family and friends – it’s on the recipient’s wrist. It’s a built-in excuse to chat up one’s achievements. And – said recipient is also likely chatting up his fantastic, incredibly generous employer who gave it to him or her.”
Further, she adds, a classic-style watch never goes out of style, and today’s watches, in a similar manner with today’s phones do more than just allow phone conversations, watches also do more than tell time. For example, she offers, Victorinox Swiss Army and Wenger watches feature functions that range from calendars to chronographs. “Additionally, these high-end products offer styles to suit any preference – sporty, classic, fashion-forward, or rugged and reliable,” she comments.
Bulova, says Forrest, has introduced its new CURV collection, which showcases the world’s first curved chronograph movement. “This resonates well with our corporate end-user customers, who value products with high perceived value.”
New clocks from Bulova include Bluetooth in wall and mantle styles, which wirelessly support any type of programming from a smartphone or tablet and transmit up to 30 feet away. They work easily with Android and IOS software, Forrest says. Bulova also has several new styles of home décor clocks, including large 45" diameter styles that are UPS shippable.
And because the holidays are coming up, many of your clients may want to host parties or thank-you events, so Forrest reminds to check out Bulova’s Gift In Time “watch experience.” The company will work with budget, guests and goals; pick a plan for your client, the Bulova product, and the company will provide displays, signage, tablecloths, shopping bags and on-site sizing.
“Selling a watch program is easy. Selling a branded watch program, is easier,” DeSantis declares. “Our feeling,” states DeSantis, “is that companies should only give the types of gifts they themselves would be thrilled to receive.”