Day: 16 January 2026

In a significant shift for TAG Heuer, CEO Antoine Pin has confirmed his departure from the brand just ahead of LVMH Watch Week in Milan. Pin’s exit, described as the beginning of a new chapter, leaves the luxury watchmaker without leadership as it grapples with declining sales and a pressing need for innovation within the sector. Speculation about his departure had circulated earlier this year amid reported strategic disagreements. With no immediate replacement announced, TAG Heuer faces challenges in reinvigorating its market presence. The event will still showcase new releases alongside other esteemed LVMH brands, amidst a backdrop of reduced profits in the luxury watch and jewellery markets.

Ramsdens Holdings has achieved a significant milestone, reporting annual revenues exceeding £100 million for the first time, with a remarkable profit before tax rising by 43% to £16.2 million. Key drivers include a 52% increase in gross profit from precious metals and strong demand for gold coins boosting jewellery sales. The company plans to open 8-12 new stores in FY26, despite facing rising operational costs. Chief Executive Peter Kenyon highlighted the strong performance, announcing a recommended 43% increase in dividends for shareholders.

Tissot has solidified its commitment to professional basketball with a 10-year extension of its partnership with the NBA, WNBA, and G League. Central to this renewed alliance is the introduction of a redesigned shot clock, making its debut in the 2025-26 NBA season, featuring cutting-edge technology and a unique round design. In a further boost to brand visibility, German basketball stars Moritz and Franz Wagner have been named as new ambassadors. To commemorate this collaboration, Tissot is launching a special edition watch, blending sport and style for fans and collectors alike.

As the Lunar New Year approaches in 2026, watchmakers are seizing the opportunity to unveil a range of unique timepieces that celebrate the Year of the Horse. Highlights include TAG Heuer’s limited Carrera Chronograph and Oris’s Artelier series, with each design emphasizing the horse’s symbolism of energy and independence. Meanwhile, Longines introduces a culturally rich edition, showcasing a blend of tradition and artistry. With only a few pieces available, collectors eager to embrace this festive spirit may find the perfect addition to their collections.

CW Sellors has appointed administrators amid serious financial challenges, leading to the redundancy of 36 staff members and the family losing control of the company. The decision to suspend online orders comes as the firm grapples with significant losses and unpaid suppliers. While physical retail locations remain open, communication with creditors has ceased, raising concerns about the future of the business. With a notable property listing aimed at attracting potential buyers, the Sellors family faces a devastating turn of events in the wake of recent economic pressures.

The luxury watch market is witnessing a seismic shift as the allure of limited edition timepieces fades amid declining demand. With the advent of FOMO—fear of missing out—brands have increasingly relied on scarcity to drive sales, creating challenges for authorized dealers left with less desirable stock. As major retailers pivot by opening their own boutiques to compete directly with brands, many are now confronting the consequences of this overexpansion, facing plummeting sales and the harsh reality of store closures. A renewed focus on customer relationships is now essential for survival in this evolving landscape, where retailers must now foster loyalty rather than rely solely on brand prestige.

Oliver Gallaugher has unveiled the limited-edition Deep Space Blue watch, with only 35 pieces available, reflecting a meticulous blend of engineering and artistic influence. This new model showcases a refined design, featuring a captivating dial with a unique ‘shooting stars’ effect, and is powered by the innovative LTM5000-G manual-wind movement. Priced at $12,800, the Deep Space Blue exemplifies a commitment to exceptional craftsmanship in contemporary watchmaking.