Design protection

The design of a product is often decisive for its commercial success. A beautiful shape or motif can multiply the maximum price a product can command.

Depositing a design helps prevent infringement. A protection can be granted to two-dimensional creations (fabrics, packaging, watch faces, etc.) as well as to three-dimensional objects (furniture, watches, cases, etc.).
A new Swiss Design Law was introduced on July 1, 2002. Under this law, the scope of protection granted has been considerably enlarged. The total period of protection has been extended to 25 years (previously 15 years), divided into 5-year terms, whilst the advantages of the former law, i.e., a fast, simple, and relatively inexpensive procedure, have been retained; registration is usually obtained after only 1-2 months.

Multiple-design applications are possible, and the overall costs for obtaining design protection in our country will depend on the number of designs (i.e., objects) comprised in the application and on the total number of representations to be published. A short description of the design (maximum 100 words) can optionally be filed. Although sealed applications are no longer allowed, it is now possible to request a deferral of publication for up to 30 months.