Interviews

Exclusive interview with Mr. Juan Carlos Torres, CEO of Manufacture Vacheron Constantin

You have been appointed “Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres”, what will this honor add to your commitments and future with Vacheron Constantin?

This distinction came to honor Vacheron Constantin and its 257 years of history at the top of Haute Horlogerie. I consider this distinction rewarding and confirming the recognition of the commitment and support that carries our brand to Art and Culture. Vacheron Constantin is indeed always been an active partner in international institutions whose mission is to support the arts and skills, such as the Paris Opera, the National Institute of Crafts, the Barbier -Mueller and others."

Vacheron Constantin Celebrated this year the 100 anniversary of Malte Collection with limited edition pieces and new models, what are the characteristics that makes this model special?

The Malte collection was introduced in the year 2000, and quickly turned into a success story. Very recognizable with its typical Tonneau shape, the Malte collection has been consolidated with various additions, mostly complicated, in-house mechanical movements bearing the famous Geneva Hallmark. As we were going to celebrate the 100 years anniversary of the Tonneau shape at Vacheron Constantin, we then thought about giving a new direction to the Malte collection. Consequently, the new Malte design is – one may say – more faithful to the original designs of the early years ot the 20^th century… and so deeply rooted in the history and heritage of Vacheron Constantin. To commemorate this 100-years anniversary, we decided, in addition, to offer a limited edition model made of platinum, featuring a dial with painted roman numerals respecting the original design of the 1912 model… this particular model is limited to only 100 examples.  

What challenges await the brand over the coming decade?

Vacheron Constantin’s - talking about product design – main challenge is probably not only to maintain, but to improve the overall level of what makes us a unique brand in Haute Horlogerie: a combination of classic design, mastered watchmaking technique, and exceptional finishings – both inside and outside. Our brand is famous for its pure, balanced and refined aesthetics, and we will constantly raise the bar, seeking for ultimate watchmaking excellence.

How would you explain the demure positioning of the new models introduced in 2012?

Malte is one of the core collections of Vacheron Constantin, and therefore it embodies the characteristics of our watchmaking style: classic and sophisticated. The Tonneau shape of Malte has been designed in a very subtle way, with beautiful proportions that can be adapted from a model to another without losing its aesthetics. The perfect design balance of the Malte models can be perceived in all the new models, from the simplest to the highly complicated Malte Tourbillon.

Which of your models are the most popular in the Middle East?

A wide range of our models are successful in the ME, it goes from the Patrimony Contemporaine classic and simple to the more sporty watches such as Overseas to high complications tourbillon and minute repeaters. We have to talk as well about the Quai de l’Ile personalized timepieces as it became quite popular in some countries in the region. Given the generous case size of the new Malte collection we are confident that it will appeal to our clients in the region as well.

How is Vacheron Constantin faring in the Middle East?

We try to keep a very well balanced pricing structure all over the world, thus our fares in the Middle-East are very competitive compared to Europe, USA and Asia.

How important is the Middle East consumer market for Vacheron Constantin and how do you rate its current potential?

There is no doubt that the interest for the high watchmaking is growing year after year in the Middle East. Moreover, the region’s clients are becoming more and more educated when it comes to watchmaking, they are also very demanding and know what they want. We believe that there is still a high potential in the ME and are confident about the future.

Could you please describe the Vacheron Constantin customer profile? Is it different for the Middle East region?

Our customers are usually low profile, refined persons looking for the finest things in life, they are sensitive to craftsmanship, attentive to details and generally very passionate people. The Middle East client is very keen on acquiring limited editions, rare and exclusive pieces.

Are your Haute Joaillerie watches any more popular than others in the region?

It is true that Haute Joaillerie watches are hugely popular in the ME. Vacheron Constantin has in its offer some very refined Haute Joaillerie pieces, such as the Lady Kalla, Kalla Flame which is set with flame cut diamond, a Vacheron Constantin exclusivity in the watchmaking world. 

What is your greater vision for the brand in the region, in terms of new boutiques and special editions dedicated to the region?

We will continue to develop the brand in the ME as an important region of the world, with flagship boutiques and strong after sales service. We have made few limited editions dedicated to the ME in the past, we like to limit such editions however, we are always open to study new projects as long as they are in line with our DNA and strategy.

What is your expansion strategy for the Middle East? Do you plan to open additional new exclusive boutiques in the region?

We have currently two boutiques in the ME, one in Dubai and one in Riyadh, however, we are looking at expending the network to at least 6 boutiques in the short to medium term. Boutiques are very important in order to offer the right experience to our customers and to strengthen the bonds with them.

Company News

Piaget opens its boutique in Avenue at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi

Piaget has recently opened its doors to its latest, exquisite boutique in the GCC.  This new boutique is located at Avenue at Etihad Towers, in the heart of the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi, and it becomes the seventh boutique for Piaget across the GCC. Spanning 156 square metres, Piaget’s new architectural identity has been created by Christine Querlioz from Paris’ renowned “Atelier Sasha,” who is credited with covering the design and implementation of concepts for numerous prestigious clients in addition to Piaget.

Sir Elton John’s 14th Annual White Tie and Tiara Ball in association with Chopard

For the 14^th consecutive year, Sir Elton John and David Furnish have opened the doors of their splendid Old Windsor home for the legendary White Tie & Tiara Ball, organised in association with Chopard. This exclusive private event welcomed a stunning array of guests, including a number of celebrities sparkling in Chopard creations. The evening raises over 4 Millions pounds to benefit the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

OMEGA presents Planet Ocean film in Rio

Planet Ocean, a movie directed by Yann Arthus-Bertrand and Michael Pitiot in partnership with OMEGA, has just been premiered at Earth Summit 2012 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The 90-minute documentary, which also draws on the talents of some of the world’s leading aerial and underwater cinematographers, oceanographers and biologists, was created to change the way people look at the oceans and to encourage them to imagine conservation and stewardship as responsibilities shared by everyone on Earth.

Girard-Perregaux Young Watchmakers Tours continued in Beijing

After the successful exhibition at the first stop in New York City, the Young Watchmakers Tour of Girard-Perregaux took hold of Beijing on June 20^th. Pictures of the talented crew of young watchmakers were shot at their watchmaking benches at many iconic and historical relics in the city, mixing the traditional Swiss craft and the deep cultural richness of Beijing.

Longines appoints Simon Baker as Ambassador of Elegance

Longines has announced the appointment of Simon Baker as its new Ambassador of Elegance. The Australian actor is well-known for the lead role in the television series The Mentalist as well as his roles in movies such as Margin Call. Simon Baker personifies the core values of Longines and perfectly underlines the slogan "Elegance is an attitude". He was officially introduced as worldwide Longines Ambassador of Elegance at the Prix de Diane Longines in Chantilly (France), where Longines was the title partner and official timekeeper.

Louis Vuitton to open its first store at 23, Place Vendome

On 3 July, the Maison Louis Vuitton will open its first store exclusively dedicated to fine jewellery and watchmaking along with its first fine jewellery workshop at 23, Place Vendome. The location is just a few metres away from 4, rue Neuve des Capucines, the historic address where in 1854 Louis Vuitton established his very first store and the birth of the Maison’s world-renowned savoir-faire.

Breitling DC-3 Passengers Observe Jetman in "Full Flight"

Reminiscent of the famous superman scene, Yves "Jetman" Rossy has flown in close formation, with the Breitling Douglas DC-3, vintage aircraft. Giving the passengers onboard the unique experience to see the world's first jet powered man in full flight.  The flight lasted 7 minutes, before the Jetwing exhausted its fuel supply and Yves pulled his parachutes to land safely back at Buochs airport.

REUGE plays to the sound of the Montreux Jazz Festival

On the occasion of the 46th Montreux Jazz Festival from June 29 to July 14, 2012 in Montreux, in the heart of the Riviera, Reuge joins this exceptional event and offers music lovers unique pieces, specially engraved for the occasion. iReuge, a music station for iPhone 4 and 4S, will be exhibited during the festival.

Product Launch

4N Watches presents the 4N-MVT0/D01

The watch 4N-MVT0/D01 is an exceptional mechanical watch with digital display, in jumping hour and minute. It presents a unique display of its size and its animation every minute.

Montegrappa Celebrates St. Moritz with New Limited Edition

Montegrappahas captured the spirit of St. Moritz in a series of luxurious pens. For 2012, a new quartet of pens has been introduced, in the tradition of the previous series, now highly collectible. The 2012 St. Moritz Limited Edition comprises 300 fountain pens and 300 rollerballs with sterling silver trim and a special limited edition of eight fountain pens and eight roller balls with solid 18K gold trim per design.

Celebrity News

Emma Stone in Tiffany & Co. at Rome Premier of the Amazing Spider-Man

Emma Stone looked gorgeous in Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co. on 22^nd June at the Rome premiere of The Amazing Spider-Man. Emma chose Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co. Green Jade Cabochon Ring in 18k yellow gold and Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co. Diamonds by the Yard Stud Earrings in 18k yellow gold.

Daphne Guinness wears Faberge at Christie’s London

On 26 June 2012, Daphne Guinness chose to wear Faberge pink guilloche diamond and pearl Serpent Egg Pendant from Les Fameux de Faberge High Jewellery collection of couture egg pendants to the Private View of the auction of The Daphne Guinness Collection, Sold to Benefit the Isabella Blow Foundation, at Christie’s, London. Guests included Faberge Creative and Managing Director Katharina Flohr, Gareth Pugh, David Furnish, Mario Testino and Nick Knight among others.

Be constantly updated on the latest Watch & Jewellery Business markets of the Middle East, as well as information on competitors, promotions, product trends, industry analyses, appointments, new product introductions & developments and market research.

Our weekly 'Arabian Watches & Jewellery Business Newsletter Broadcast' is distributed to over 22,000+ industry executives, Watch & Jewellery manufacturers and distributors, retailers, investors and media consultants globally.

Unsubscribe / Submission of News / Open Forum / Obtaining our news distribution / Confidentiality Important Copyright Notice / Disclaimer

Developed by We Do Web