Interviews

Exclusive interview with Mr. Guy Chatillon, CEO of Ralph Lauren

Really Legendary Ralph Lauren

There are very few brands – that too in high-end – which need no recognition irrespective of where you are. Their history, craftsmanship and uniqueness speak volume of their individuality and identity. In high-end watches and jewellery category, Ralph Lauren needs no introduction for being a brand which even the global fashion celebrities feel proud to be liaison with. Guy Chatillon, CEO of Ralph Lauren, speaks to Arabian Watches and Jewellery Magazine, spelling out company’s global expansion plan, distribution strategy and the performance of the Middle Eastern markets. Excerpts:

Two years after the launch of Ralph Lauren watches in 2009, where does the brand stand today among the high-end category?

Our products have been well-received in the watch enthusiast community and we have created a strong foundation of three iconic collections. We have also created qualitative distribution network at an international level, having successfully opened points of sale and Watch Salons in major cities in 14 countries.

How did the brand overcome the global crises?

When we launched in 2009 during the economic crisis, Ralph Lauren, and the overall industry, saw a shift in consumer preferences. Consumers were shifting towards watches with intrinsic values, craftsmanship and simplicity – a return to fundamentals. We’ve responded well to this change in consumerism as our products fits the demand that represent authenticity, longevity and functionality. 

How did you evaluate the presence of Ralph Lauren watches in the Middle East markets and what was the consumer feedback?

The Middle East consumers responded well to our offerings. Our participation in the Bahrain and Qatar exhibitions helped us a lot to raise awareness and reinforce our brand image. The Middle East consumers have appreciated the craftsmanship and style of our products and Ralph Lauren’s signature sensibilities of luxury, glamour and timelessness have been welcomed by Middle East consumers as they are around the world.

You have recently opened the first RL watches Boutique in Paris. Are there any plans to add more sales points - particularly in the Middle East?

The Watch Salon format is an integral part of our selective distribution strategy. In 2009, we opened the first of these in London and last year opened Salons in Macau, Paris and New York. We plan to continue steadily rolling out this format internationally, according to the appropriate opportunities in terms of space availability and location. It is important to note though, that there are two pillars to our selective distribution strategy: Ralph Lauren stores and the best independent retailers — so we will continue to ensure a harmonious balance between the two formats.

Are there any plans to expand into other Middle Eastern market, such as Kuwait & Levant?

For the moment we will focus on the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar as well as Saudi Arabia. In these markets we have partnered with the top independent retailers – including Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons in Dubai, Bahrain Jewellery Centre in Manama and Ali Bin Ali in Doha and Riyadh. The Middle East, especially the Gulf, is a key area for the luxury and fine timepiece industries and we will continue to assess the situation in other markets such as Kuwait and the Levant, expanding our distribution according to the appropriate opportunities.

Does Ralph Lauren’s new sporting watch mean the beginning of involvement in sports world?

Ralph Lauren has a long history in the world of sports – sponsoring prestigious events such as Wimbledon and the U.S. Olympics Team. The elegance of sports and the beauty of speed are very much part of the sporting collection inspiration. With the new watch inspired by Mr. Lauren’s Bugatti Atlantic, we’re connecting to his passion for fine automobiles. He is an avid car collector, and his cars have often served as inspiration for his products. We plan to continue developing more products in this direction in the future.

Tell us more about the new SIHH novelties? What are your expectations?

This year, it’s about expanding our three existing collections by introducing several new materials – such as matte black ceramic and elm burl wood, new finishes and shapes to our collections. While widening our offering, we are continuing to focus on watches that are timeless and unique, with an emphasis on quality, design and craftsmanship.

With these novelties, our objective is to offer a comprehensive product mix that covers a wider range – from lower price points to more innovative watches. This allows us to continue building a strong foundation for the business and attract a new audience.

Market News

LVMH records double-digit revenue growth in 2010

LVMH annual watches and jewelry sales recorded the biggest growth in profits, with a 103 percent increase in 2010 compared with the year before. Watch and jewellery profits more than doubled from Euro 63 million ($84 million) in 2009 to Euro128 million ($171 million) in 2010. Total revenue in this category rocketed 29 per cent from 2009 to Euro 985 million ($1.32 billion) in 2010. This was the best performance increase of any LVMH division.

Middle East consumers gets more quality conscious in buying Diamond

Consumers are now getting more demanding and quality conscious in purchasing diamond. Buyers are increasingly demanding authentication certificates for their diamond purchases. According to the International Gemological Institute (IGI), certificates are becoming more and more in demand. IGI has seen a 25 percent year-on-year increase in the region. On the back of rising demand, IGI launched its new diamond laboratory for the certification of diamonds in Almas Tower, Jumeirah Lake Towers.

Company News

Cartier International Dubai Polo Challenge 2011

Under the patronage of Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, wife of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Desert Palm Polo Club and Cartier hosted the Cartier International Dubai Polo Challenge 2011. This event, running for its 6th edition, has grown to become a renowned competition attracting leading players from around the world. The home team, Desert Palm won the Cartier International Dubai Polo Challenge 2011 and received Cartier Calibre watches.

Hublot celebrates amfAR’s 25th Anniversary

Hublot celebrated the 25^th anniversary of the amfaR’s contribution to AIDS research at New York Gala on February 9, 2011. The event honored President Bill Clinton, Diane von Furstenberg, and amfAR Founding International Chairman Dame Elizabeth Taylor for their leadership in the global struggle against HIV/AIDS. Hublot has created a special limited edition collection of timepieces for men featuring the foundation’s colors and logo.

Lesley Manville shines in Chopard at BAFTAS Film Awards

Lesley Manville chose to wear a white gold watch fully set with diamonds and a pair of long three-row platinum earrings set with heart shaped diamonds as well as a magnificent  ring set with 2 pear shaped diamonds and several white fancy cut diamonds at the BAFTAS Film Awards 2011.

RITMO MUNDO opens first boutique in Tokyo, Japan

RITMO MUNDO has opened their free standing boutique in Tokyo, Japan. The boutique is adjacent to the Minato district, a major market shopping avenue where many international fashion brands have stores. This boutique, one of the three scheduled to be open throughout Japan in the upcoming months, features the full line of both RITMO Classic and Fun Collections including diamond and limited edition versions.

Richard Mille as main sponsor of the Violes de Saint Barth

In 2010, the first Voiles de Saint Barth Regatta, a prestigious nautical rendez-vous in the Caribbean was sponsored by Richard Mille. The success of this first edition brings Richard Mille to naturally follow suit with a second edition, scheduled from April 4 to 9, 2011. Richard Mille has been present in the nautical world for several years, especially through the diver’s watches RM 025 tourbillon, RM 028 automatic and RM 028 Voiles de Saint Barth, a limited edition, especially created for the regatta.

Product Launch

Tiffany & Co 5th Avenue Watch

Inspired by the prestigious address and architectural features of Tiffany’s flagship boutique in New York, Tiffany Watch Co. Ltd has presented the new model of 5^th Avenue watch in a satin strap. Like the case, the buckle is crafted in 18-carat white gold and fully set with 20 diamonds for the 36mm and 20 blue sapphires for the 46mm. The 5^th Avenue timepiece is powered by a Swiss quartz movement.

Alpina to introduce the new Startimer Pilot Collection

Alpina is excited to launch its new Startimer Pilot Collection; a highly attractive range of contemporary timepieces, inspired by original Alpina designs from the 1920s and 30s. The collection offers four exciting variations. It kicks off with a basic three-hand date automatic (cal. AL-525). The timepiece with automatic caliber AL-710. In-house caliber AL-950 powers the iconic Startimer Pilot Regulator. Lastly, a well-balanced and powerfully designed automatic chronograph version (cal. AL-860).

RAYMOND WEIL presents Maestro Moon Phase

A member of the maestro collection created in 2010, Maestro Moon Phase model is the Brand’s first moon phase complication with a mechanical movement. This timepiece is equipped with a round 39.5mm case, a date counter harmoniously positioned at 6 o’clock and a moon phase indicator at 10.30 as if glancing at its future owner.

F.P. Journe launches OCTA UTC

F.P. Journe has innovated the presentation of the Octa UTC ®, a patented system that take us back to the modern standards of determining time zones in full hours. Mechanically it indicates the different time periods linked with the earth’s geographical positions, indicating summer and winter hour. On the dial, the main hours are indicated by the blue hands, and linked to the calendar indicating the main geographical time. The rose gold hand indicates the time zones on 24 hours, represented by the earth’s 24 time zones.

Glam Rock offers SoBe Collection

SoBe’s interchangeability comes with the click of a finger and goes beyond the ability to simply change the straps of a watch. The faces of So Be Watches also offer removable case covers. The metallic case cover around the dial can be snapped on and off with an easy movement, allowing users to effortlessly change the look of the watch with their mood. Each So Be watch begins with 3 stainless steel covers: IP rose gold, stainless steel and IP yellow gold.

Catamaran Global: The world on your hand

Catamaran has introduced its latest creation; Catamaran Global, a very functional automatic chronograph with world-timer GMT and compass, an essential tool for sport active travelers and people on the move. The timepiece features diameter 47 mm, high resistant stainless steel case, Swiss automatic movement Valjoux 7750, 43 hours power reserve and water resistant to 200 M – 20 ATM (660 feet).

Mikimoto unveils its new Blossom collection

Mikimoto has unveiled its new Blossom Collection which is inspired by the first blooms of Spring featuring the famous pink cherry blossom. The collection is an extremely versatile line with four sets including pendants, earrings and rings. High quality diamonds or pink sapphires designed as the blossom flower float and settle on every piece of this collection which is set in 18k white gold.

Launch of Robert Procop Exceptional Jewels

Roberto Procop has launched his latest venture, where he will lead a team of elite craftsmen and designers to offer bespoke collections which will transform some of the world’s rarest stones into unique jewellery masterpieces. Procop has developed collaborative collections alongside his own designs, working with Hollywood star and international style icon Angelina Jolie for a series of pieces the proceeds from which will benefit her charity, Children of Conflict.

Montegrappa Thrilla in Manila

Montegrappa has presented a companion pen set to the acclaimed “Icons” writing instruments honoring the legendary Muhammad Ali. Commemorating the 35^th Anniversary of one of his greatest fights, “A Thrilla In Manila”, the new set has been authorized by both Muhammad Ali Enterprises and Joe Frazier. Montegrappa also announce that its authenticity will be enhanced by a very special feature: the referee for that historic meeting, Carlos “Sonny” Padilla, Jr., has provided his “up close and personal” account of the event, reproduced in the owner’s manual.

Theo Fennell launches new Fine Jewellery Collections

British designer, Theo Fennell held an elegant cocktail reception to launch his new Fine Jewellery Collections at the One&Only The Palm hotel in Dubai. The brand’s founder and creative director, Mr. Theo Fennell presented his new Bee collection, designed to be uplifting and delicate, wearable and sentimental. Also on display was an array of unique pieces, in addition to Theo Fennell signature pendant keys, skull snake rings from the new Silver Alias Collection and other instantly recognizable pieces. 

Damas to launch its New “Spring Collection”

Damas will be launching a new, limited edition ‘Spring collection’, designed as a tribute to the young and playful spirit of the contemporary woman. With all pieces in the collection blending white, yellow and rose gold, the expertly designed pendants, necklaces and bracelets are presented in three themes:  ‘Nature’, ‘Loops’ and ‘Spring’ – all of which are further highlighted by the sparkle of selected brilliant diamonds. The collection incorporates a blend of three gold types, and feature round brilliant diamonds set in micro setting.

Exhibitions & Events

Art Dubai 2011 – Les Voyages Extraordinaires

In supporting Art Dubai, Van Cleef & Arpels demonstrate once again their talent for combining creativity, culture and artistic craftsmanship. Van Cleef & Arpels is a partner of Art Dubai for the third consecutive year. After having presented their history and watchmaking creations, this year visitors are invited to discover the new High Jewellery Collection "Les Voyages Extraordinaires". The event will be held from March 15 – 19, 2011.

Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition names the Winners

The 12^th Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition has announced the winners at a press conference held at The Watermark, in Hong Kong’s Central Ferry Pier on February 22, 2011. Six pieces were singled out in Open Group and Student Group categories during the competition, held under the theme “The Glory of Spring.” The winning creations will be displayed before an international audience at the HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show, 4-8 March, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The International Jewellery and Watch Show Abu Dhabi 2011

The International Jewellery & Watch Show Abu Dhabi (JWS) will be held from October 17 to 21 in Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC). JWS is a unique exhibition with an extensive showcase of exquisite jewellery and timepieces from all over the world, and is aimed at the region’s most affluent consumers. Exhibitors represented at the event include those from Bahrain, Belgium, China, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Lebanon, Malaysia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and United States.

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