Day: 9 September 2026

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has expanded its Endorsed programme with the introduction of two new training courses aimed at enhancing jewellery making and retail skills. The Metal Clay Academy now offers in-person workshops across the UK, focusing on silver and base-metal clays, while Sharman D. Neill provides a comprehensive two-day retail training experience for employees. Both courses have received NAJ endorsement, signifying their adherence to the association’s educational standards. NAJ is encouraging more providers to seek endorsement, emphasizing the importance of high-quality training in the industry.

Abbott Lyon has teamed up with charity Tommy’s, pledging to raise a minimum of £50,000 to enhance research and support for families affected by pregnancy and baby loss. The partnership, which aims to promote diverse narratives surrounding parenthood, will kick off with a dedicated collection during Baby Loss Awareness Week in October. Co-founders Asha Jones and Jezz Skelton, both of whom have experienced pregnancy loss, will share their stories to foster open dialogue and support for those navigating similar challenges. Jones expressed hope that their initiative will help families feel less isolated and more acknowledged during their journeys.

Swiss luxury watchmaker Hublot has announced a groundbreaking partnership with acclaimed artist Jeff Koons, designating him as their new Global Ambassador. This collaboration highlights a shared commitment to innovation and the redefinition of conventional aesthetics. Known for his transformative balloon sculptures, Koons resonates with Hublot’s Art of Fusion philosophy that melds materials and craftsmanship in watchmaking. Both entities share a rich history rooted in the 1980s, making their alliance a celebration of disrupting traditional artistry. Enthusiasts can look forward to exciting upcoming collaborations as Hublot continues to merge art and horology.

The Swiss watch industry is witnessing a notable decline in the use of the short-time working scheme, Réduction de l’horaire de travail (RHT). However, experts from Deloitte caution against interpreting this as a sign of recovery, highlighting that reductions stem from permanent adjustments rather than a rejuvenation of demand. While some firms, like the Swatch Group, have prioritized workforce retention amidst significant operational changes, others have drastically cut costs and scaled back production. This transition reflects a deeper realignment within the industry as businesses adapt to a new, lower demand environment.

Compagnie Financière Richemont has appointed Anton Rupert as co-deputy chairman, a pivotal role in the company’s succession planning. Jointly with Bram Schot, who will oversee corporate governance, Rupert will drive the creative and commercial strategies of Richemont’s luxury brands. This move comes as the company reports a robust 20% sales growth year-on-year, reaching €6.3 billion, spurred mainly by strong performances in jewellery, despite challenges in the watch division. Anton Rupert Jr., with limited experience in direct brand management, is set to navigate the future of the family legacy within the luxury sector.

Girard-Perregaux has unveiled an ambitious strategy that sees the Swiss watchmaker introducing four new movements within just a year, while committing to an exclusive annual production of 5,000 to 6,000 timepieces. By focusing on heritage, quality, and sophisticated storytelling rather than mass market appeal, the brand is forgoing big events like Watches and Wonders in favor of investing in dedicated showrooms in Geneva and Shanghai. This commitment to craftsmanship is further exemplified in their collaboration with Williams Formula One, underlining a shared legacy and values. Managing director Marc Michel-Amadry emphasizes a vision that prioritizes artistry over volume, planning to create meaningful customer engagements through select retail experiences.

Nico Leonard, a prominent social media influencer with a following of 538,000, has revealed he received a death threat after branding Christopher Ward watches as “an embarrassment.” His criticism ignited a fierce backlash from the brand’s devoted fans, who staunchly defended Christopher Ward’s reputation in the watch industry. Managing director Mike France condemned the threats against Leonard, emphasizing that such intimidation is entirely unacceptable. As the community surrounding Christopher Ward continues to grow, the incident highlights the intense emotions surrounding brand loyalty in the competitive watch market.

In the intricate world of pre-owned luxury watches, the latest insights spotlight the stark differences between the experiences of dealers and collectors. While market value can easily be quantified, true collectors often find that the emotional weight of rare pieces surpasses mere financial considerations. Choices made in haste can lead to long-lasting regret, as the scarcity of exceptional timepieces means that once sold, they may never be replicated. Understanding both market dynamics and the intrinsic value of each watch is crucial for anyone navigating this evolving landscape.