Day: 29 January 2026

Luminox has firmly established its reputation in rugged watchmaking since receiving the endorsement of the US Navy SEALs in 1992. With a focus on durability and innovative materials, the brand’s latest Navy SEAL 3580 Chronograph showcases the advanced CARBONOX and CARBONOX+ for lightweight resilience in extreme environments. Powered by Swiss movements ensuring precision under pressure and featuring Luminox Light Technology for guaranteed visibility, these timepieces are designed for those who demand reliability in the most challenging conditions.

Chaumet has unveiled its Envol collection for 2026, a striking high jewellery line inspired by the brand’s historical connection to avian themes. Comprising nine exquisite pieces, the collection features grand feu enamel and captivating midnight blue sapphires, embodying the elegance of the Belle Époque. The crown jewel is a transformable tiara, crafted over an astounding 850 hours, showcasing a stunning 3.92-carat Madagascar sapphire and offering four versatile styles. This collection, reminiscent of the legacy of founder Marie-Étienne Nitot and Empress Joséphine’s bird sanctuary, continues Chaumet’s tradition of technical mastery and artistic innovation.

Ed Margulies, a newcomer to the independent watch scene, has unveiled Split Watches, a brand dedicated to authenticity and mental health support. Launched in late 2025, each watch sold contributes to therapy sessions at the Anna Freud Centre. The highlight of the collection, “In The Skies,” claims the title of the world’s first full-glow watch, featuring a luminous design and limited to just 250 pieces, each priced at £1,800. Margulies’ vision intertwines craftsmanship with a message of hope, encouraging a thoughtful approach to both watchmaking and mental well-being.

China’s luxury goods market saw a contraction of 3% to 5% in 2025, marking a recovery from the previous year’s decline. Signs of improvement emerged in the second half of the year, with consumer sentiment gradually shifting. While the beauty sector flourished with 4% to 7% growth, fashion lagged, experiencing significant downturns. Notably, the secondhand luxury market thrived, expanding by 15% to 20% year-on-year. Looking ahead, modest growth is anticipated for 2026, albeit amid ongoing market volatility and shifting consumer priorities.

Headline inflation has climbed to 3.4%, even as consumer sentiment experiences a notable boost, reflecting a cautious optimism about personal finances and the economy. Recent data highlighted an improvement in economic perceptions, with confidence rising to its highest level in five months. However, personal and retail spending expectations have taken a hit, plunging from previous highs. As personal savings increase, concerns linger over persistent inflation and the potential rise in business costs, prompting calls for governmental intervention to sustain consumer confidence in an evolving economic landscape.

A rare Richard Mille RM 59-01 Yohan Blake Tourbillon is set to make waves at a unique Government Auction by Wilsons Auctions, marking the first time this coveted watch is available without a reserve price. With only 50 pieces created, this highly collectible timepiece reflects its namesake’s athletic legacy and is renowned for its intricate design and advanced tourbillon movement. The auction, which also features other luxury items like a limited Audemars Piguet, aims to benefit the public through funds generated from seized criminal assets. Currently, bids have reached £12,010, with expectations of a substantial increase as the event progresses.

Hermès has introduced the Slim d’Hermès Squelette Lune, a sophisticated addition to its acclaimed watch collection. This timepiece features a striking skeletonized dial and an innovative double moon phase display, meticulously designed to represent lunar phases for both hemispheres. Available in a 39.5mm case of either titanium or platinum, the watch houses the ultra-thin Manufacture Hermès H1953 movement, offering a power reserve of 48 hours. With its elegant aesthetics and luxurious leather straps, the Slim d’Hermès Squelette Lune exemplifies the brand’s commitment to artistry and craftsmanship in horology.