Month: April 2026

The Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ) has unveiled its shortlist for the inaugural CMJ Awards, set to take place at the Autumn Trade Event in August. Designed to celebrate the achievements of retailers and suppliers in the jewellery sector, the awards feature categories such as Community Champion, Craftsmanship & Heritage, and Customer Experience Excellence. Notable finalists include independent jewellers and innovative suppliers, with winners to be decided by a panel of judges. Patrick Turner, CMJ’s managing director, praised the exceptional quality of entries, highlighting the significant impact of independent jewellers on the industry. A Lifetime Contribution award will also be presented at the event.

Point-of-sale financing in the UK experienced a modest 4% growth in Q1 2026, signaling a significant shift in consumer habits from luxury goods to essential purchases. The home and healthcare sectors were key drivers of this growth, while discretionary luxury items saw a decline amid rising living costs and economic uncertainty. V12 Retail Finance’s managing director, Andrew Phillips, emphasized that consumers are increasingly prioritizing necessary expenditures, reflecting a more cautious approach to spending in today’s challenging landscape. The diverse demographic seeking point-of-sale finance illustrates its growing acceptance as a mainstream purchasing tool.

Gucci has taken a bold step in the watch industry by emphasizing femininity and playfulness with its latest G-Timeless collection, unveiled at Geneva Watch Week. Ditching male-centric designs, the collection features elegant timepieces adorned with the brand’s iconic horsebit and bamboo motifs, all crafted for everyday style. From polished steel to soft leather straps, the watches are priced between £1,310 and £1,660. Additionally, the Métiers d’Art line showcases exquisite artisan craftsmanship with intricate designs that celebrate nature, featuring pieces that draw on traditional techniques and luxurious materials. With this innovative approach, Gucci aims to redefine women’s luxury watches, challenging the status quo in a traditionally male-dominated market.

On May 4th, fans of the Star Wars franchise can look forward to not one, but two exclusive collectible watches from Fossil. The Everett Mandalorian watch, priced at £329, captures the spirit of bounty hunter Din Djarin with its intricate design, while the Neutra Grogu watch, retailing at £299, features the beloved character levitating his favourite snacks against a vibrant green dial. Both timepieces come in specially designed packaging that includes original artwork and even an audio feature, making them a must-have for enthusiasts. Pre-orders are currently available, with full sales launching on the iconic date celebrated by Star Wars supporters worldwide.

Patek Philippe’s president, Thierry Stern, has firmly denied rumors of the luxury watchmaker pivoting toward retail, amid its recent acquisition of Swiss jeweller Beyer. Speaking at the Watches and Wonders event, Stern reassured dealers that the brand’s core focus remains on watchmaking craftsmanship, even as the new Beyer Salon prepares to showcase Patek’s exclusive offerings. With impressive £83 million sales reported from its London location this financial year, the company is navigating global uncertainties while emphasizing the importance of maintaining quality over quantity in production. As Patek Philippe eyes continued growth in a competitive landscape, its commitment to artistry and pricing remains unwavering.

Wrexham AFC’s remarkable journey from a struggling non-league team to a serious contender for Championship promotion is a testament to the power of celebrity influence and engaging storytelling. With Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney at the helm, the club’s resurgence has captured global attention, particularly through the Disney+ documentary “Welcome to Wrexham.” This transformation raises intriguing questions about the potential for other underdogs in various sectors, such as the independent watch brand Urban Jürgensen, to harness celebrity support and media platforms for revival and growth. As the narrative-driven market expands, the dynamics of fame and industry could shift profoundly.

Nominations have been launched for the 2026 Power List by WatchPro, celebrating the transformative figures and businesses in the US watch industry. With categories such as Brand Champions, Retail Titans, and Inspiring Independents, the list aims to spotlight innovation and influence across the sector. The final recognitions will be unveiled at an exclusive event during the JCK tradeshow, set to be a pivotal networking occasion for industry leaders. Nominations are open until April 29.

Timothée Chalamet has made an intriguing foray into the world of luxury watchmaking by acquiring a minority stake in the esteemed Swiss brand Urban Jürgensen, which boasts a storied history dating back to 1773. The actor will take on the role of creative advisor, where he aims to intertwine the artistry of filmmaking with the precision of watchmaking. Chalamet’s partnership underscores a growing trend of cross-industry collaborations, as he and Urban Jürgensen’s CEO, Alex Rosenfield, seek to elevate the appreciation of handcrafted timepieces. Chalamet’s passion for the craft reflects a deeper understanding of its artistic parallels to cinema, promising a fresh perspective for the venerable brand.

A striking yellow gold Rolex GMT-Master II, valued at nearly $100,000, has gained notable attention for its diamond embellishments and cultural significance, having been worn by Drake on the cover of his acclaimed album *Take Care*. Featuring a unique engraving of an owl linked to the artist’s brand, this highly collectible timepiece exemplifies the evolution of luxury in watchmaking. Now available at Wind Vintage for $500,000, its unpolished condition and full set further enhance its allure for discerning collectors.

John Mayer took the stage at Dubai Watch Week to introduce Ilaria Resta, celebrating Audemars Piguet’s 150th anniversary with the unveiling of the RD#5 Royal Oak Extra-Thin Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph. The event featured a documentary by Terminal 9 Studios, highlighting the brand’s rich history and development of the new timepiece. With a production cost nearing £1 million, the film aims to set a new standard for promotional storytelling, drawing attention to the intricacies of haute horology and the craftsmanship behind luxury watchmaking.