economy
Long lines and public disorder: this was the launch of the new Swatch watch
The scenes of greatest tension were recorded in cities such as Paris, Milan and New York. Photo: EFE
TL;DR
- Swatch's "Royal Pop" collection launch caused public disorder and long lines in about 20 of its 220 global stores.
- Demand vastly surpassed expectations, overwhelming organization at some shopping centers.
- Incidents occurred in Paris, Milan, and New York, with some stores closing early due to crowds.
- In Paris, police used tear gas to disperse a crowd of 300 people outside a store.
- The situation echoed the 2022 MoonSwatch launch's high demand and queues.
- Swatch communicated that the "Royal Pop" collection will be available for several months to ease initial pressure.
- This collaboration marks a partnership with Audemars Piguet, an independent prestigious watchmaker, unlike previous Swatch collaborations with brands within its own group.