Swatch Group reports positive growth in 2018, Van Cleef & Arpels School of Jewellery Arts returns to Dubai, Jaquet Droz unveils timepiece exclusively for Dubai Shopping Festival.

   
 
 

Interviews

 

In conversation with Mr. Alexander Schmiedt, brand director, Middle East and India of Vacheron Constantin during SIHH 2019.

Alexander Schmiedt said “Vacheron Constantin had a very successful year at SIHH 2019, with very positive reactions from both customers and press alike”. Middle Eastern watch connoisseurs are passionate about Vacheron Constantin and excited about our brand, added Schmiedt in an interview for Arabian Watches & Jewellery.

1. What can Vacheron Customers in the ME expect from the Maison this year? And how was the SIHH novelties met with the VIP customers and media?

SIHH 2019 was all about “La Belle Haute Horologerie” and this has always been a focus for Vacheron Constantin. Technicality, innovation, authenticity, beauty and craftsmanship are the pillars upon which this brand has been built. This core theme was expressed through the variety of Vacheron Constantin’s SIHH 2019 collections and the highlight of which was the Traditionelle Twin Beat which embodies innovation; perpetuating the perpetual calendar to encompass modernity in a finely handcrafted manner which is emblematic of the Vacheron Constantin brand. It really was the pièce de résistance for our brand this year, but in the same spirit, we showcased some truly exceptional collections, such as the Cabinotiers Méchaniques Sauvages which represents the epitome of high watchmaking, merging the highest level of artisanship with outstanding complications. We also presented some exciting novelties in Overseas, such as the Overseas Tourbillon in stainless steel which is something that our Middle Eastern clients have been asking about for quite some time. And then of course, we also have the FIFTYSIX collection featuring the petrol blue dial as well – all in all, we had a very successful year at SIHH, with very positive reactions from both customers and press alike. 

2. How do you evaluate 2018 for Vacheron in the region? What potentials does it yet hold?

2018 was a very strong year for Vacheron Constantin in the Middle East. We have a long-term view on everything we are doing. We have been making watches for over 260 years and know how to adopt a long-term view on our strategy. About 3 years ago, we really started activating Vacheron Constantin in the Middle East as it is a very important market for us. Our vision is long-term, and in 2018, we really saw the momentum started to take effect for our brand in the region. Overseas has been very popular for the past couple of years, the FIFTYSIX collection had high appeal for our regional customers and we have also seen a big success with the Historique Complete Calendar in stainless steel. We are really seeing an increase in appreciation amongst Middle Eastern watch connoisseurs who are passionate about Vacheron Constantin. And that is really what it is all about: to make our customers, the connoisseurs excited about our brand. 

3. Can you elaborate more on your boutique expansion plan in the region?

In 2018, our strategy was very much aligned with a “less is more” philosophy. On a global level, we focused on honing in on qualitative points of sales, reducing the availability in certain places which were not at par with the level of service we would like to offer. At the same time, we have been developing those which we feel offer the greatest potential, focusing on our boutique network with the goal of offering the exact same level of Vacheron Constantin service to the client no matter where it is located or who is running it. The reaction to this approach has been very positive and we will continue to work this way in 2019. We will also be focusing on the KSA market this year as we feel that this is a market which is still underrepresented in the luxury watch market. We feel that the watch connoisseurs there would greatly appreciate what Vacheron Constantin has to offer and we are opening our boutique in Riyadh in March this year. 

4. Last year VC launched a new line FIFTYSIX how was it received in the ME? 

We launched FIFTYSIX as a new collection last year to complement Vacheron Constantin’s existing offering. If you look at the Vacheron Constantin universe, we, of course, have that that classic, fine Geneva watchmaking DNA which is evident within the Patrimony and Traditionelle collections. These collections are exclusively made using precious metals and represent the brand’s signature refinement and timeless appeal. On the other hand, we also have the sporty elegance line, the Overseas, which is primarily available in stainless steel which balances practicality and with contemporary style. 
With FIFTYSIX, the idea was to create a third pillar of the brand, offering clients the option of a modern vintage territory. This is the first collection in the brand’s history which offers models in both stainless steel and pink gold. The versatility of the FIFTYSIX was very well received in the Middle East because the design and style of the collection complements Vacheron Constantin’s existing collections and offers Middle Eastern men refined, stainless steel references which appeal to their personal taste. FIFTYSIX has worked very well for us in the Middle East because it has expanded the options we offer our customers by introducing a whole new collection blending modernity with tradition. 

5. Vacheron Constantin has been offering classic and elegant watches for over 260 years, how would the Overseas compliment the sport watches line with the Maison?  

Overseas is an important territory and pillar within Vacheron Constantin’s collections. When you look into the heritage and history of Vacheron Constantin, yes, our DNA is the classic, sophisticated, fine Geneva watchmaking. But in the end, a Vacheron Constantin watch has always eloquently balanced aesthetics, beauty, innovation and technicality of movements and performance within every reference. Overseas represents this ethos; overseas is a collection which has been a part of the Vacheron Constantin brand since 1977 with the predecessor of the 222 reference which was launched in 1977 to commemorate the 222nd anniversary of the brand. This reference incorporated the spirit of Vacheron Constantin in an elegant yet sporty expression. The Overseas 3 which launched in 2016 is the third iteration of the Overseas. Re-launching a collection is always a challenge as you have to strike the perfect balance between creating something new whilst staying true to the original reference, and I feel that the Overseas 3 beautifully walks that fine line and this is represented by the success that the reference has enjoyed over the past few years. It is an important part of the Vacheron Constantin collections and it is here to stay, representing the essence of the spirit of the Maison.  
 
 
 

Market News

 

Swatch Group reports positive growth in 2018.

Swatch Group overall results are positive with net sales and profitability on the rise, but the end of 2018 proved to be more challenging. The Swatch Group, however, anticipates healthy growth in 2019.

The Swiss Watch powerhouse reported a growth in net sales, up by 6.1% at CHF 8,475 million at current exchange rates (and up 5.7% at constant exchange rates). Overall, 2018 results are positive for the Swatch Group.

However, if the first semester revenues were up 14%, business slowed in the last trimester of 2018, specifically in December. Among the 2018 highlights, Swatch reports that the growth was driven by the prestige and luxury range, mentioning in particular Blancpain, Omega and Longines. Swatch Group anticipates a “healthy growth” for the year to come and reports “solid growth” in January. Further expansion of e-commerce, mainly in the middle and basic range, will open additional possibilities. Swatch Group announces its plan to produce watches with anti-magnetic properties across all brands – using either silicon or Nivachron balance springs.
 
 

Company News

 

Van Cleef & Arpels School of Jewellery Arts returns to Dubai.

After a successful debut in 2017, L’ECOLE Van Cleef & Arpels is returning to Dubai, offering a two weeks program of courses, interesting conversations and exciting exhibitions. L’ECOLE invites the region’s public, regardless of age or experience, to immerse themselves in the art of jewelry guided by leading experts at the second Middle East edition. Taking place from March 28 Th to April 13 Th 2019 at In5 at Hai d3, in Dubai Design District. 
 

Jaquet Droz unveils timepiece exclusively for Dubai Shopping Festival.

Jaquet Droz and Rivoli Group unveiled an exclusive new version of the brand’s iconic Bird Repeater automaton at Jaquet Droz’s branch in The Dubai Mall. The exclusive launch of the one-of-a-kind watch is part of the city’s largest shopping extravaganza, Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), an initiative by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE).
 

Longines inaugurates its first boutique in Kuwait in presence of Aishwarya Rai.

Longines and its partner Behbehani Group officially inaugurated its first boutique in Kuwait located in the renowned “The Avenues” mall. To celebrate this unique event, Longines Ambassador of Elegance Aishwarya Rai Bachchan honored with her presence to cut the ribbon with Mr. Charles Villoz, Longines Vice President, Mr. Patrick Aoun, Longines Brand Manager Middle East and Mr. Ali Morad Behbehani, Behbehani Group President.
 

Mouawad Crafts the World’s Largest Vivid Yellow Round Brilliant Diamond.

Mouawad announced that it had recently completed crafting of a yellow rough that yielded an extraordinary polished 54.21 carat round brilliant cut, fancy vivid yellow, the largest ever graded to date by the Gemological Institute of America. The jeweller said that the stone had been renamed as the Mouawad Dragon as it is reminiscent of the Dragon’s magical powers and fiery eye.
 

Bryson DeChambeau wins the 2019 OMEGA Dubai Desert Classic.

Bryson DeChambeau takes home the trophy and a stunning OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M Master Chronometer. DeChambeau played strongly throughout the competition, finished with a 7 stroke lead on the renowned Majlis course at the Emirates Golf Club. 
 
 

Product Launch

 

The Omega De Ville Trésor 125th Anniversary Edition

With the invention of the revolutionary 19-ligne “OMEGA” Calibre in 1894, one of watchmaking's most famous names was born. 125 years later, the company has proudly marked the anniversary with an intimate celebration event at its home in Bienne, Switzerland. The De Ville Trésor 125th Anniversary Edition has been crafted from 18K yellow gold with a burgundy leather strap and a red enamel dial. The caseback includes an anniversary medallion, as well as a decorative engraving known as “damaskeening”. 
 

Glashütte Original presents the Lady Serenade in a Limited Special Edition.

Glashütte Original presents a special edition inspired by Valentine’s Day – The Lady Serenade, a grand total of 52 radiant rubies   one for every week in the year    frame  the  bezel  of  its  36-mm  stainless  steel  case.  They are complemented by a sparkling ruby cabochon set atop the refined structure of the crown. The deep red colour stands in splendid contrast to the natural white mother-of-pearl dial. 
 

NOMOS Glashütte adds 3 new watches to the Campus Collection.

NOMOS Glashütte launched the Campus series two years ago, the watches were made with young graduates in mind. Now the range is being extended with three new automatic models and for the first time, NOMOS is offering a bracelet for its watches. What unifies the 2/2 collection is that they all feature a stainless-steel back, All Campus models are handcrafted in Glashütte and powered by an in-house NOMOS caliber. Their cases are crafted from stainless steel and sapphire crystal, which is second in strength only to diamond.
 

Gucci presents new G-Timeless Automatic watch with pastel shades.

Gucci launches a new 38mm G-Timeless Automatic watch, offered in a variety of pastel shades.  Available  in  18kt  yellow  gold  or  steel,  the  new  timepiece  enriches  both  the masculine and feminine offering of the automatic line. Embellished  with  an  engraved  rehaut,  the  dial  shines  in  transparent  mother  of  pearl, and the strap is crafted from pastels shades of ostrich.
 

Exceptional diamond rings by Mouawad.

Mouawad’s collection of glowing diamonds sparkle with a shimmering elegance. The collection includes exceptional creations from Diamond Classics, all with precious gemstones adorned in 18K white or yellow gold settings. Every ring tells a story of love, romance and magic, capturing a unique charm in natures’ most beautiful creations, from vivid rocks to fancy shapes and colors. 
 

David Yurman exclusive high jewellery at Bloomingdale's

David Yurman hosts an exclusive week-long pop-up at Bloomingdale’s Dubai this February featuring the brand’s latest High Jewelry collections. Iconic pieces from the brand’s three High Jewlery collections – Stax, Petals and Gems – will be available to shop at Bloomingdale’s Dubai.
 
 

Celebrity News

 

Celebrities dazzle in Cartier at the 25th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles.

Amy Adams wears Cartier High Jewelry earrings, platinum, spinels, onyx, diamonds Cartier High Jewelry bracelet, platinum, diamonds Pluie de Cartier ring, 18k white gold, diamonds. 
Rachel Weisz wears Panthère de Cartier earrings, 18k white gold, emeralds, onyx, diamonds Cartier Vintage ring, 1941, platinum, diamonds.
 

Chopard Creations shine at 25th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Actress Melissa McCarthy, wore earrings featuring 5.32-carats of pear-shaped diamonds and 2.89-carats of diamonds set in 18k white Fairmined gold and a ring featuring marquise-cut diamonds set in 18k white Fairmined gold both from the “Green Carpet Collection.”
Actor Joseph Fiennes, wore Chopard’s “L.U.C XPS” timepiece featuring a self-winding mechanical movement and a white dial with a case in stainless steel. 
Actor Harry Shum Jr., wore Chopard’s “L.U.C XPS” timepiece featuring a self-winding mechanical movement and silver guilloche dial with a case in 18k rose gold.
 
 
 
 

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