Month: April 2026

Laurent Lecamp, head of Montblanc’s watch division, has shared his serendipitous path to watchmaking and the brand’s enduring commitment to blending heritage with modern relevance. From his first encounter at age 15, sparked by a gift from his father, to a transformative meeting with an independent watchmaker, Lecamp emphasizes the importance of diverse inspirations in his craft. Montblanc, enriched by its relationship with Minerva, champions a unique manufacturing approach that prioritizes craftsmanship and authenticity—an essential draw for a new generation of collectors. As Lecamp looks ahead, he remains focused on continuous improvement, ensuring the legacy of Montblanc influences future innovations.

A new UK-based technology platform is seeking to redefine how jewellery and watch retailers document,

Czapek’s latest creation, the Time Jumper, signals a transformative moment in independent watchmaking, merging 19th-century aesthetics with a bold, science-fiction flair. In a departure from traditional design processes, multiple designers contributed to this innovative piece, reflecting a collaborative spirit that is increasingly rare in the industry. Despite recent market challenges, the brand has reported strong order backlogs and is optimistic about future growth, particularly following its recent partnership with Harrods. CEO Xavier de Roquemaurel emphasizes a commitment to creativity and transparency, aiming to reshape the narrative of luxury watchmaking. As the Time Jumper sets new standards, Czapek anticipates a significant impact on the evolution of the sector.

Hamilton & Inches, the storied Edinburgh jeweller, has navigated tumultuous waters in 2023, losing its status as an authorised dealer of Patek Philippe amid a global distribution shake-up. Following a peak revenue of £13.1 million in the last fiscal year with Patek, the retailer’s turnover plummeted to £12 million, and further declined to £10.9 million this year. However, a renewed focus on Rolex and fine jewellery has revitalised the company’s fortunes, leading to a return to profitability with an operating profit of £460,000. With a commitment to enhancing its fine craftsmanship, Hamilton & Inches is set to strengthen its position in the luxury market.

A groundbreaking media initiative, The Five, will debut at Watches and Wonders 2026, uniting five influential figures in the horology world to redefine watch coverage. The platform promises diverse storytelling and comprehensive industry insights across Instagram, YouTube, and editorial channels. Audiences can anticipate engaging content derived from over 30 brand briefings and a live interactive panel discussion on April 16. With a focus on enriching perspectives, The Five aims to cater to both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts alike. Limited registration is now open for this exclusive event.

In a notable shift in the luxury retail landscape, Patek Philippe has acquired Beyer Chronometrie, the oldest jeweller in Switzerland, renowned for its rich heritage since 1760. Situated on Zurich’s prestigious Bahnhofstrasse, Beyer’s flagship store will undergo significant changes, with a transition plan set to close multibrand sections while retaining its Patek boutique. This acquisition, reflecting a deep-rooted partnership between the two entities, marks the end of an era as the Beyer name will disappear from the retail scene after nearly 200 years, with plans to relocate the esteemed Beyer Watch & Clock Museum remaining intact. The acquisition underscores Patek Philippe’s strategic focus on securing prime real estate and supporting its longstanding workforce.