Month: February 2026

Raynald Aeschlimann, CEO of Omega since 2016, faces mounting challenges in his aspiration to eclipse Rolex in the Swiss watch market. Despite a revenue resurgence to CHF 2.6 billion in 2023, Omega’s struggle with sluggish sales in China has contributed to its decline to the fifth-largest Swiss watch brand, projected to fall to CHF 2.2 billion by 2025. In stark contrast, Rolex has nearly tripled its sales since 2017, now surpassing CHF 11 billion. As the industry grapples with changing consumer behaviours, the stakes remain high for Omega’s future trajectory.

Bonhams has been announced as the headline sponsor for the upcoming Valuers’ Conference, organized by The National Association of Jewellers. The two-day event will feature six keynote presentations focusing on current valuation trends, followed by interactive workshops and masterclasses. A gala dinner will highlight the evening, culminating in the announcement of the David Wilkins Award winner. Registration opens next week, with full details on the speaker lineup to follow.

Versace has unveiled its Fall-Winter 2025 Watch Collection, highlighting the Tolomeo model, a sophisticated 40mm stainless steel timepiece. With its geometric case, engraved bracelet links, and a striking blue sunray dial, the Tolomeo embodies the brand’s signature style. Powered by a Swiss-made Ronda movement, this watch features a date function and minimal branding, retailing at £1,028—a testament to the growing trend of quiet luxury in fashion.

Inhorgenta’s watch exhibition in Munich highlights 1,334 brands from 38 countries, showcasing a vibrant array of timepieces. Among the standout releases is the British Fears’ Brunswick 40.5 Jump Hour, a celestial-inspired model celebrating the brand’s 180th anniversary. Doxa presents its updated SUB 750T dive watch, while Junghans pays homage to Bauhaus design with a minimalist classic. G-Shock also makes waves with an advanced full-metal edition of its iconic shock-resistant watches. This year’s event promises to be a feast for horology enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Pandora is set to expand its jewellery range with a new line of platinum-plated items, aiming to diversify its offerings amidst the recent volatility in silver prices. The collection, which features tarnish-resistant and hypoallergenic products, responds to a consumer survey revealing that 78% prefer platinum over silver. Production plans include the use of recycled platinum, aligning with sustainability goals, as Pandora looks to transition a portion of its portfolio by 2028. The debut will begin in select Northern European stores in early 2026, with a wider global rollout anticipated later that year.

Haelixa has introduced a groundbreaking DNA-based Authenticity Service to help combat the staggering $250 billion loss to counterfeiting in the luxury sector. By embedding invisible DNA markers during production, the Swiss firm ensures each product can be authenticated through a simple swab test in just 30 minutes. This innovative solution not only aids retailers and service centres but also integrates effortlessly into existing manufacturing processes, safeguarding the integrity of luxury brands like watches, jewellery, and leather goods.

In a striking shift within the Swiss watch industry, Rolex has bolstered its dominance, increasing market share from 57% to 61% in just two years, despite a downturn in overall production. While Omega falters, facing competition from a resurgent Breitling, independent brands like Cartier and emerging players gain ground, shaking the foundations that long supported established giants. Cartier has nearly doubled its sales since 2019, riding a wave of strong retail loyalty, while other public groups struggle, highlighting the increasingly competitive and fragmented landscape of luxury timepieces.

London Watch Week will return in 2026, taking place from June 2-6, according to organizers Lucy Cheesewright, Tom Exton, and Justin Hast. Following the success of its inaugural event, the week promises an impressive lineup featuring exhibitions, discussions, masterclasses, and product launches. With a mix of prestigious brands and independent makers, last year’s highlights included a live auction at Bonhams and exclusive evening gatherings. Full details on the upcoming festivities are set to be announced soon.

MeisterSinger has launched the new Archao watch series, featuring striking graphics and enhanced luminosity. This model showcases large, luminous hour markers and double-digit numerals crafted from solid white LumiBlocks, ensuring superior visibility day and night. Housed in a robust 43mm stainless steel case with a matte black DLC coating, the Archao is designed for durability and style. Powered by the Swiss Sellita SW200 movement, it offers a power reserve of 38 hours, all at a price of €2,390. For those seeking a blend of minimalist design and bold aesthetics, the Archao promises to be a standout addition to any collection.

Gerald Charles is celebrating a significant achievement after its ambassadors excelled at the ABN AMRO Open in Rotterdam on 15 February. Alex de Minaur secured the singles title, while the men’s doubles crown went to Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori. De Minaur’s consistent performance not only bolstered his standing on the ATP Tour but also showcased the prestigious Gerald Charles watch he wore during the matches. The brand commended the players for their exceptional displays and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting athletes in their pursuits.