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Richard Mille plans to launch several ‘star’ novelties and a large number of amazing pieces at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) in Geneva. Actually, we will be presenting a large number of amazing pieces. Despite the tough global economic circumstances, Richard Mille has even noted increased sales once more in 2011. Richard Mille’s masterpieces launched at SIHH will be introduced in the Middle East during spring, reveals its President Mr. Richard Mille. Arabian Watches & Jewellery Magazine catches up with the President to ascertain plans for the SIHH. Below are excerpts from the interview:
What are your expectations for SIHH 2012?
I have big expectations having seen the reactions from clients who have previewed the new collection so far. So, we hope 2012 will be, as 2011, another year of growth!
What are the foreseen trends and directions with watches in 2012? Any particular trends that your brand is particular keen on in terms of movement and or designs?
The accent is on several extremely performing and highly technical new models. It is very exciting for me to present them at the SIHH. There are also a number of very high-end and limited editions this year, and of course our first in house designed movement. For the rest I don’t follow trends; I prefer to create them!
What are your ‘star’ novelties for the SIHH?
We will not have one but several star novelties for the SIHH. Actually, we will be presenting a large number of amazing pieces.
When would we expect the SIHH novelties to be available in the Middle East?
I launch many new models each year and I had to face certain delivery problems but that can happen in our business. The development phase then follows its course and producing the movements can be a very long process because the SIHH novelties like the other watches of the collection are very complex and very difficult to realize. Ensuring a reliable product also takes time. But we always get there in the end! I think the first new pieces will be delivered around spring.
Which of your watch models are the most popular in the Middle East? And why?
Basically, all our models are doing well in the Middle East. However there is perhaps more interest for jewellery pieces than elsewhere in the world.
What are the challenges that you are facing as watch makers under the global and regional economic circumstances?
For the moment, we have not had any direct problems with that situation. In fact, we have even noted increased sales once more against expectations. The thirst of clients for something really new, different, technical, innovative … from all the rest is what fuels our markets. I also believe that the price positioning of my watches perhaps frees us from those issues because they are true luxury products in every aspect.