High-end time pieces led growth while exports of watches priced under 200 Swiss francs declined.

Exports were down for the first time in 18 months, casting further doubt on the health of the luxury sector.

Exports of lower-priced timepieces declined.

He “was a great personality of the watch industry.”

Brisk business in Asia and bimetal timepieces spurred sales growth in the month.

Higher-priced timepieces are leading the Swiss watch industry’s recovery.

Hong Kong accounted for nearly two-thirds of global growth, according to the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry.

Swiss watch exports resumed a strong trajectory of growth after a slower pace in March.

Exports of Swiss timepieces were up 10.1 percent in the first quarter, the highest quarterly growth rate since June 2012.

The growth figures come as watchmakers prepare to meet at the annual Baselworld bonanza this week.

China overtook the U.S. as the industry’s second-largest market.

The Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry forecasts similar growth in 2018.

The monthly performance was driven by a surge in demand from China, where exports grew at their fastest pace in more than two years.

Hong Kong and China led the sharp increase that offset ongoing weakness in the U.S., the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry said.

The monthly figures add to evidence of a sustained recovery despite patchy spots, including continued weakness in the U.S.