Month: March 2026

In an exclusive interview in Geneva, CEO Federico Ziviani revealed Gerald Charles’ ambitious plans to revitalize its watchmaking heritage. With a renewed focus on artisanal craftsmanship and improvements to its atelier, the Swiss brand aims to modernize its iconic pieces while maintaining their unique charm. Ziviani shared insights on navigating industry challenges and teased upcoming limited editions for 2025, positioning Gerald Charles for steady growth in the competitive horology market. For a comprehensive look at the conversation, the full interview is available on WatchPro’s YouTube channel.

Rolex’s new headquarters in New York City, nearing completion, is set to transform the Midtown retail landscape, now void of long-term partner Wempe. The ambitious 28-storey development features four floors dedicated to retail and 20 for office space, reflecting a shift towards luxury amidst evolving tax benefits. The stimulating effects of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act have prompted a flurry of upscale retail investments, although future uncertainties in tax policy may temper the expansion ambitions of boutique retailers. As they race against diminishing incentives, the luxury market braces for a potential retraction in opulent new projects.

Piaget has officially unveiled its expanded flagship boutique in Paris’s Place Vendôme, doubling its size and showcasing a new aesthetic inspired by its historic watch dials and the elegance of French art. The lavish renovation features a mix of marble, blue stones, coral, and gold, aiming to enhance the brand’s global presence. Lead designer Rafael de Cárdenas described the space as a cabinet of curiosities, where sophisticated creativity meets intimate design, inviting clients to fully immerse in the Piaget experience. This bold move comes as the luxury maison seeks to reclaim its position in an increasingly competitive market.

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has unveiled a draft guidance document to support jewellers in managing the impact of fluctuating metal prices, particularly for gold, silver, and platinum. As market volatility escalates, members have expressed a growing need for assistance with pricing strategies and communication with customers. This collaborative document draws on experiences from a variety of industry participants and aims to provide practical solutions for maintaining profit margins and fostering strong customer relationships. The NAJ is currently inviting member feedback on the draft, with a final version set to be released later this year.

A new publication highlights the pivotal role of women in today’s watch industry, showcasing twelve influential figures across retail, brands, media, and manufacturing. This power list not only celebrates their contributions but also addresses the persistent challenges faced within the sector. With British Watchmakers’ Day in focus, the article explores the growing strength of the independent watchmaking sector in the UK, where traditional artistry beautifully intertwines with modern engineering, creating distinctive timepieces. The edition, in collaboration with Louis Vuitton, also offers a fascinating glimpse into London’s famed transport system.

Luxury Bazaar has teamed up with Courtyard.io to revolutionize the luxury watch market by introducing a surprise-driven shopping experience alongside a 95% instant buyback guarantee. The partnership will showcase a curated collection that includes iconic brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet, aimed at engaging a new generation of collectors. A live-stream event on March 6 will feature a $90,000 watch giveaway, as well as exclusive discounts for first-time buyers. Roman Sharf of Luxury Bazaar expressed excitement about reaching new enthusiasts while maintaining the brand’s commitment to authenticity.

Fossil is set to unveil a revitalized era of its iconic Big Tic watch in 2026, introducing two new models: the Big Tic Y2K Limited Edition and the Big Tic Machine. This revival marries nostalgic elements with modern design, featuring a dual battery system and water resistance of 50 meters. While the Y2K edition embraces its retro roots with vibrant displays, the Machine version offers an industrial aesthetic with a focus on contemporary wearability, highlighting Fossil’s evolution in blending style and functionality.

Bezel has launched Watch Futures in partnership with Kalshi, a pioneering prediction market for luxury watches, enabling users to speculate on future price movements of iconic brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe. Launched on February 24, this innovative platform utilizes Bezel’s proprietary Beztimate valuation system to provide accurate benchmarks, paving the way for smaller investments in high-end timepieces. This initiative aims to democratize access to the luxury watch market, offering enthusiasts a new avenue for engagement and investment.

Houlden Group has appointed Denise McLaughlin as managing director, marking a significant leadership transition in the luxury jewellery sector. With 17 years at Houlden and a history as chief operations officer, McLaughlin aims to enhance member support and supplier partnerships while driving innovation through data-driven strategies. Her promotion is seen as a move towards stability and strategic clarity, reflecting Houlden’s commitment to supporting independent jewellers amidst a changing retail landscape. McLaughlin’s vision emphasizes collaboration and growth, positioning Houlden for a robust future.

Over 60 leaders from the UK watch industry convened at the art’otel London Battersea Power Station for a landmark event hosted by WatchPro, aimed at championing women’s roles in the sector ahead of International Women’s Day. The inaugural initiative featured panels on women’s leadership and consumer influence, with notable participants from brands including Bremont and Bonhams. In a significant announcement, WatchPro revealed plans to publish an annual Women in Watches list, set to spotlight influential female figures within the industry.