Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs About Custom watch, Private label watch, ODM & OEM Watch Production at American Watch

Over 30 years of excellence in American watchmaking—explore our comprehensive FAQs on custom watch manufacturing. If your question isn’t answered here, contact us at info@americanwatch.com for personalized assistance.

What is ODM Watch process (Original Design Manufacturing)?

ODM allows you to select from our existing watch designs with blank areas on the dial for custom logo or artwork printing and blank case backs for engraving. Provide your logo/art in formats like JPEG, PNG, PDF, EPS, PSD, or AI. We’ll follow your instructions on placement, size, and color, then send virtual mockups for approval before proceeding with printing and engraving.

View our American Watch ODM Catalog for available designs.

What is OEM Watch process (Original Equipment Manufacturing)?

OEM enables you to build a unique watch brand from the ground up. develop and Customize every element: case, dial, hands, band/bracelet, and functionality. Set your own pricing.  We’ll sign an NDA to safeguard your intellectual property.

Learn more about ODM vs. OEM Watches.

Key Questions to Help Us Guide Your Project

To provide accurate quotes and tailored advice, share details on these aspects:

• Are you interested in ODM or OEM watches?
• What specifications do you have? (e.g., Materials: is it Stainless Steel, Titanium; Movement: Automatic, Quartz or smart ; Case Size, Glass Type, Dial Design, Band Type)
• Can you provide visual references for your vision?
• Do you want to print logos/art on dials and engrave case backs of existing watches?
• What is the intended use for these watches?
• Are you planning a prototype only, or prototype followed by production?
• Do you have a deadline?
• What is your budget or target price per watch?
• Unsure about ODM vs. OEM?
  • Check our guide: ODM vs. OEM Watches
  • Explore Watch Design Tips
• Tell us about your company.

How to Start a Watch Brand: Defining Your Vision

Before diving into design, define your brand’s identity. Consider:

• Target audience
• Desired price point, at the retail side
• Preferred materials and aesthetics
• Required investment
• Sales channels (e.g., e-commerce, retail, wholesale)

Conduct market research or surveys to align with customer expectations.

Read our full guide: How to Create a Watch Brand/Company.

What is the Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) for OEM Watches?

MOQ starts at 500 pieces per style, which can be divided into up to 3 finishes (e.g., gold, silver, black). This includes design, 3D renderings, working prototypes, and production upon approval.

Per-unit costs depend on final specs and designs complexity.

What Are the Timelines for OEM Watch Production?

• Design Stage: ~ 7-20 days
• Prototype Stage: ~60-90 days
• Production Stage: ~60-120 days

Total process: Approximately 4-7 months.

How Much Does an OEM Prototype Cost?

A standalone OEM prototype (no production) ranges from $10,000-$15,000, based on design and specs. Includes design, 3D renderings, and a working prototype.

At design stage end, we’ll quote production pricing, valid for 30 days.

Typically, 1 prototype per variation/color is included in production orders; discuss extras with our team.

What Are the Delivery Times for OEM Orders?

Projects vary, but average 60-180 days for completion and FOB Los Angeles shipping. Depends on design, quantities, and complexity.

What Are the Payment Terms and Fees for OEM process ?

• Engagement Fee: $3,000 retainer to start design/engineering (credited back at prototype or production final payment; non-refundable if stopped at 3D rendering stage).

OEM Prototype Only:

• 50% after drawing approval, before prototyping
• 50% 10 days before shipment (minus $3,000 engagement)

OEM Prototype + Production:

• 25% after drawing approval, for pre-production/prototyping
• 25% after prototype approval, to start production
• 50% 10 days before shipment (minus $3,000 engagement)

Reorder Payments:

• 50% deposit
• 50% 10 days before shipment

Reorders take similar time as originals, minus design/prototype phases (assuming no changes).

What Are the Delivery Times for ODM Orders?

Projects vary, but average 12-180 days for completion and FOB Los Angeles shipping. Depends on design, quantities, and complexity of the order.

What Are the Payment Terms and Fees for ODM process ?

• Depending on the project quantity can customization…  generally for small project.

ODM Prototype Only:

• 100% after drawing approval, before prototyping.

ODM Prototype + Production:

• 50% after drawing approval, for pre-production/prototyping
• 50% 10 days before shipment (minus $3,000 engagement)

Reorder Payments:

• 50% deposit
• 50% 10 days before shipment

What is the Warranty on American Watch Products?

One-year limited warranty from shipment date, covering defects in materials/workmanship (excludes normal wear/tear or abuse). Extended warranties available, please discuss this option with our sales team.

Do You Ship Internationally?

Yes, American Watch ships worldwide.

Do You Offer NDAs and Confidentiality?

Absolutely. We honor NDAs and provide anonymity. Clients keep manufacturing confidential. 

What Packaging Options Are Available?

We can help provide packaging as needed, From standard ODM styles to fully custom OEM packaging. We work with several packaging partners / vendors world wide.

For custom ideas:

• Share visual references
• Provide target price per unit

Can Watches Be Labeled “Made in USA”?

Per FTC guidelines, products must be “all or virtually all” U.S.-origin with negligible foreign content. Since movements (Swiss/Japanese) aren’t U.S.-made, completed watches can’t claim “Made in USA.”

We design, engineer, build, and assemble in the USA but we don’t manufacture movements.

FTC Resources:

• Made in USA Guidance
• Made in USA Labeling Rule

Ready to Create Your Custom Watches?

The American Watch team is eager to bring your vision to life. Schedule a consultation today!

Contact Us: Phone 213-741-0808.

 Email info@americanwatch.com

Address: 1225 S. Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015