AsianFin -- Swiss watchmaker Swatch has apologized and removed advertisements that drew criticism in China for depicting an Asian model pulling the corners of his eyes in a “slanted eye” pose.

The images, promoting the Swatch Essentials collection, sparked widespread condemnation online, with many viewers saying the visuals echoed racist stereotypes about Asian features.

In a statement posted in both Chinese and English on its official Weibo account Saturday, Swatch said it had “taken note of the recent concerns” and removed all related materials worldwide. “We sincerely apologise for any distress or misunderstanding this may have caused,” the company added. The same apology was shared on Instagram.

Swatch Group, which also owns Omega, Longines, and Tissot, did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for further comment. China remains a key market for the group, accounting for roughly 27% of its sales last year, including Hong Kong and Macau.