STOP PIRACY explainFake and copied watches destroyed
The STOP PIRACY association destroyed thousands of fake watches at the Berne-Belp airport on the 28th of October 2010. Heavyweight highlight was a steam roller that crushed the timepieces into the sodden earth. Forecasts by international expert organisations say forgeries and piracy will further increase over the next few years. STOP PIRACY fights against this phenomenon using a public awareness programme, as well as strengthening the cooperation and coordination between the private and public sectors.
For decades the watch industry has fought against piracy. "Forgeries endanger economic growth, jobs and innovation", said Yves Bugmann of the association of the Swiss watch industry FH whilst the watches were being destroyed. And association president Anastasia Li-Treyer complemented: "Those who purchase forgeries support the criminals".