Year: 2026

The Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ) has unveiled an innovative initiative, Mentorship Monday, aimed at empowering its retailer members through valuable training and support ahead of key trade events. This comprehensive program, which boasts a training value exceeding £3,000 per attendee, will include sessions on sales growth and digital marketing strategies. Participating retailers will also receive a £100 travel credit. With hands-on workshops led by a range of suppliers, CMJ’s initiative is set to enhance skills and foster connections within the industry, allowing retailers to maximise their potential in an ever-evolving market. Managing director Patrick Turner affirmed the initiative’s goal: investing in the future of retail through developing their greatest asset, their people.

The National Association of Jewellers has rebranded its JET Business Network to the NAJ Retail Network, marking a renewed commitment to independent jewellery retailers across the UK. With around 40 members reporting an impressive 15% annual growth, the network aims to bolster collaboration and knowledge sharing among jewellers. Offering resources such as educational meetings, a supportive WhatsApp group, and insights through benchmarking, the network fosters a community where members can navigate the competitive landscape together. Peter Wong, chair of the network, emphasizes the enduring value of peer support in overcoming the unique challenges faced by independent retailers.

In an exploration of the emotional resonance behind luxury timepieces, ten noteworthy collectors from the watch industry reveal their most cherished watches, each steeped in personal history and craftsmanship. Highlights include Ulysse Nardin’s Diver [AIR], celebrated for its innovative design, and the rarity of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust ‘Levi’s’, featuring a unique corporate dial. The Patek Philippe 2438/1R stands out not only for its technical prowess but also its significant provenance. These stories emphasize that the true value of a watch often lies beyond its monetary worth, illustrating deep emotional connections that define the collector’s journey.

In a strategic move, Girard-Perregaux has taken over the sponsorship of Williams Formula 1 after Bremont’s departure earlier this year. The collaboration, grounded in shared values and engineering innovation, aims to enhance both branding and hospitality at race events. With promises of a special edition watch inspired by the iconic racing team, the partnership heralds a new chapter in precision engineering and luxury timekeeping. Both brands are committed to fostering a dialogue that not only elevates their respective crafts but also enriches their audiences.

Investors in the watch industry are witnessing a remarkable shift, with shares of Watches of Switzerland skyrocketing from £100 to £223 and Seiko Group offering a stellar return of £226. Meanwhile, the Citizen Watch Company has surged to £196, while Swiss giant LVMH has struggled, yielding just £96 on a similar investment. This dynamic illustrates increasing competition from Japanese rivals as traditional Swiss manufacturers grapple with lost market share and rising price points. With affluent collectors gravitating towards exclusive timepieces, the future remains uncertain for Swiss watchmakers amidst the changing landscape.

In a dazzling display of horological excellence, celebrities are using their choice of timepieces to make bold statements. Drake recently unveiled a bespoke Rolex Daytona adorned with exquisite gemstones, while Ryan Reynolds opted for a rare Haldimann tourbillon, showcasing masterful craftsmanship. Dwayne Johnson turned heads with his $3.3 million Jacob & Co. watch at an awards event. Additionally, Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr. showcased their luxury watches at a Marvel presentation, and Taylor Dearden lit up the Televerse Festival with her diamond-studded TAG Heuer. This trend underscores how A-list stars are blending fashion with individuality through their remarkable watch selections.

As we approach what would have been Dr. George Daniels CBE’s 100th birthday on 19 August 2026, the horological community reflects on the profound legacy of a master watchmaker. Although he crafted only 26 timepieces, Daniels revolutionised the industry with his innovations, including the self-starting detent and co-axial escapements. His deep understanding of mechanics not only advanced traditional watchmaking but also inspired future generations of craftsmen and enthusiasts. Renowned for his wit as much as his exquisite creations, Daniels’ influence extends far beyond his own remarkable works, igniting a passion for horology that continues to resonate today.

Citizen Watch Company has reported remarkable financial results, with net sales soaring 30% to ¥98.1 billion ($614 million) and operating profit doubling to ¥10 billion ($62.6 million) for the quarter ending June. The impressive performance, which includes a 32.1% increase in finished watch sales, has prompted the company to revise its fiscal year forecasts upward. As part of its celebration of 50 years of Eco-Drive technology, Citizen is launching a major campaign in the US market, underscoring its strong growth both domestically and internationally.

Citizen Watch Co. has reported a remarkable 30.3% surge in net sales for the first quarter, reaching ¥98.1 billion, driven by strong demand in North America and the release of a new Eco-Drive model celebrating the technology’s 50th anniversary. The Watches segment alone saw a 32.1% rise in sales, contributing substantially to an operating profit that more than doubled. As a result, the company has revised its full-year net sales forecast to ¥395.0 billion, underscoring a thriving market presence and strategic growth in both established and emerging sectors.

Time & More UK has reported a staggering 100% increase in sales for 2025 and is forecasting a further 50% rise for the next financial year. Founded by Duncan Harris in 2020, the independent watch distributor has thrived on its focus within the sub-£500 market, tapping into consumer desire for quality and value. With an expanded partnership with The JDM Swiss Group and retail collaborations that include major chains and independent retailers, Time & More is poised for continued growth in a competitive industry.