Recently, the Microbrand Watches Business Association blog had the opportunity to sit down with Ms. Ann Zhang, President of Gezfeel, a Shenzhen-based OEM watch company. Since its inception in 2017, Gezfeel has evolved into a versatile enterprise, excelling in design, development, production, and sales. During our engaging conversation, Ms. Zhang offered an in-depth look at their operations, the challenges they face, and the distinct advantages they bring to the table. The company collaborates extensively with various microbrand watch companies. We're excited to share her valuable perspectives with you.
MWBA: Ms. Zhang, could you please introduce your company and provide a brief history of its background in the watch manufacturing industry?
Ms. Zhang: Gezfeel was established in 2017 as an integrated watch company specializing in design, development, production, and sales. We have our own stainless steel case factory and assembly plant. Our primary products include automatic mechanical watches, tourbillon watches, and quartz watches, using materials such as 304 and 316 stainless steel, plastic, titanium (grade 2 and 5), carbon fiber, and bronze. Our diversified product line meets all customer needs.
MWBA: Can you describe the typical process of designing a new watch with your company? How long does it usually take from the initial concept to final design approval?
Ms. Zhang: Customers provide us with initial ideas and requirements. Our designers then create a preliminary design within two working days. If the client provides quick feedback, the design can be finalized within a week.
MWBA: Once a design is approved, what is the average time for production and assembly of a watch? Are there any specific factors that could affect this timeline?
Ms. Zhang: For orders up to 1,000 pieces made of stainless steel, the mold development takes about 30 days, followed by 60 days for production and assembly. Plastic watches take 35 days for mold development and 30 days for production and assembly. Watches made of carbon fiber and bronze require 40 days for mold development and 80 days for production and assembly.
MWBA: What capabilities does your company have in providing various components needed for watches (such as straps, bezels, dials)? Do you offer customization for these components?
Ms. Zhang: We manufacture our own cases, while other components are sourced externally. However, all components can be customized to meet specific client requirements.
MWBA: What are the payment terms and conditions when working with your company? Is a deposit required, and are there flexible payment options available?
Ms. Zhang: We require a 30% deposit, with the remaining 70% payable before shipment.
MWBA: How does your company handle logistics and shipping for completed watches? What shipping options are available, and how do you ensure timely delivery?
Ms. Zhang: We typically use DHL, FedEx, and UPS for international shipping. Timely delivery requires coordination among the customer, Gezfeel, and our suppliers. For direct orders, we provide design confirmations and photos or videos of each component to avoid errors and save time.
MWBA: What quality control measures does your company implement during production? How do you address potential quality issues or defects?
Ms. Zhang: Each department in our factory has inspectors, and we send QC personnel to inspect components at suppliers' facilities. Every finished watch undergoes a 100% inspection and water resistance test. We address any quality issues before assembly, ensuring zero tolerance for critical defects such as movement issues or water resistance failures. For minor discrepancies like dial color differences, we send photos or samples to clients for approval.
MWBA: How does your company protect the intellectual property (IP) of your clients, especially concerning watch designs and branding? What measures are taken to prevent IP theft or infringement?
Ms. Zhang: We strictly maintain confidentiality for all designs, whether created by the client or collaboratively. We also have confidentiality agreements with our suppliers to ensure IP protection.
MWBA: What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for initial orders? Do you offer lower MOQs for startups or emerging microbrands?
Ms. Zhang: Our standard MOQ is 500 units, but we can accommodate smaller orders of at least 100 units, although the cost per unit will be higher.
MWBA: How does your company maintain communication with clients during the production process? What support do you provide to ensure client needs and expectations are met?
Ms. Zhang: We communicate with clients via Alibaba, WhatsApp, WeChat, and email. Our sales representatives are available from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM China time, ensuring prompt responses, even on weekends.
MWBA: Can you share some examples of your past collaborations with microbrands or startup watch companies? What were the key factors in these successful partnerships?
Ms. Zhang: Successful collaborations with startup watch companies often hinge on our ability to provide design services and offer valuable recommendations based on the client’s brand vision and budget. Our flexible MOQs and comprehensive support also play a crucial role.
Ms. Zhang's insights highlight Gezfeel's dedication to quality, innovation, and client satisfaction. Their comprehensive approach and commitment to safeguarding client interests position them as an invaluable ally for both microbrand and established watch companies. We are eager to witness their continued impact on the watchmaking industry.
If you're a watch business executive interested in showcasing your brand, please reach out to us.
Visit Gezfeel's Official Website at: www.gezfeel-watch.com
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