By Adam Keith, Associate Timepiece Editor for ViaLuxe-

By obtaining an overall score of 7.87 out of 10 possible points, Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen has attained the uppermost position in the 2009 Luxury Brand Status Index Survey.  In the three years the survey has been conducted, IWC has twice risen to the top, surpassing such prestigious competitors as Vacheron Constantin, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Rolex.  

Those watch brands included in the survey are evaluated by means of a patented "Proprietary Luxury Brand Status Index" (LBSI) comprising four essential categories: Consistently Superior Quality, Unique and Exclusive, Social Status, and finally, Self Enhancement--an assessment of the way in which the customer rates the exclusivity and special treatment they receive across the purchasing experience.  Also measured against the LBSI are "Outcome Metrics" for the merit of a notable price premium, the degree to which buyers would be willing to recommend the product to individuals close to them, and the likelihood that the brand will be selected for a follow-up purchase.  

"We are incredibly proud of this achievement; it is a true testament to the heritage of the brand," said Benoit de Clerck, President of IWC North America. "It also provides further proof that our fundamentals and emphasis on prestige, history and quality will uphold the brands distinct identity and appeal in the current economy.  IWC has been around for 141 years and we plan to be around for many more."

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