Day: 16 September 2026

Menē has announced an exciting collaboration with acclaimed British author and historian Nick Foulkes, resulting in an exclusive luxury jewellery collection crafted from 24ct gold and pure platinum. This unique range, which includes pendants, bracelets, cufflinks, and lighter holders, reflects Foulkes’ deep appreciation for menswear and the cherished rituals surrounding everyday objects. Emphasizing the concept of jewellery as a “store of value,” Foulkes believes these pieces epitomize elegance and timeless craftsmanship, urging consumers to embrace the significance of well-crafted items that grow in meaning over time.

De Beers has unveiled SynthDetect 2, an innovative device that enhances diamond screening by distinguishing between lab-grown diamonds and simulants in set jewellery. With a remarkable reduction in scanning time to just five minutes, this upgraded model significantly improves accuracy, particularly for smaller stones. The increased automation not only lowers operational costs for retailers but also ensures a seamless integration into existing workflows. As the industry evolves, SynthDetect 2 is set to bolster transparency and consumer trust in diamond verification.

The WatchPro US Awards illuminated New York City, bringing together the foremost names in the watch industry, from luxury giants like Omega and Cartier to burgeoning pre-owned market players like Chrono24 and eBay. This prestigious event, celebrating excellence in timepieces, showcased the dynamic landscape of American horology. Preparations are already underway for the next awards, set to take place in autumn 2027.

Burglars have stolen three historic timepieces from Ulysse Nardin’s headquarters in Le Locle, including a Genghis Khan tourbillon watch. The luxury watchmaker is collaborating with local police to recover the stolen items and is urging the watch community to remain vigilant. Ulysse Nardin’s managing director, Matthieu Haverlan, has expressed relief that no one was harmed in the burglary while lamenting the loss of significant pieces from the company’s legacy. In a show of solidarity, Bulgari’s chairman emphasized the broader implications of such thefts on cultural heritage. Authorities are soliciting public assistance in the investigation.

Rolex has made a bold move into the high-end collectible watch market with the introduction of its annual calendar complication model, set to retail between £50,000 and £60,000. This strategic release comes in the wake of Patek Philippe’s similar offering priced at £54,500, highlighting an intensifying competition within the luxury watch sector. As demand narrows to a select few brands, collectors are increasingly gravitating towards neo-vintage references, putting pressure on Patek Philippe’s traditional offerings. This evolution raises questions about the future dynamics of the luxury watch market, particularly as Rolex positions itself against established titans like Patek Philippe.

UK retail employment has reached a historic low, with recent figures revealing that only 2.75 million are now employed in the sector—down 62,000 from the previous year. The drop is largely attributed to soaring employment costs, exacerbated by increased National Insurance contributions and a rise in the National Living Wage, which has added £6.5 billion in expenses over two years. The sector’s part-time roles have also hit an all-time low, raising concerns for young people entering the workforce. In response, the industry is pushing forward with initiatives aimed at creating 100,000 job opportunities for youths, highlighting a pressing need for supportive government policies to facilitate sustainable job growth.

Swiss watchmaking, long regarded as the epitome of excellence, is facing a new challenge from a wave of innovative Chinese brands. The recent HKTDC Salon de Time in Hong Kong illuminated the emergence of seven distinct watchmakers, including CIGA Design, whose Blue Planet won the GPHG Challenge Prize in 2021—marking a milestone for Chinese horology. Other brands like No Identity and Memorigin are redefining the landscape with artistic and culturally infused timepieces, demonstrating that craftsmanship can thrive beyond traditional borders. As these brands carve their niche, the narrative of watchmaking is being reshaped, blending heritage with modernity and inviting a global audience to reconsider the value of Asian artistry in this storied craft.

Beaverbrooks Group has expanded its director team from five to seven as part of a strategic initiative to strengthen leadership and company culture. The promotions of Ben Reilly, Jo Wilkinson, and Nick Bucknell to directors underscore the Group’s commitment to enhancing its operations, digital strategy, and watch acquisitions. Managing Director Anna Blackburn heralded this restructuring as critical for advancing the company’s long-term goals, especially as the firm prepares to bid farewell to brand director Roger Fairhurst after 35 years. The changes signal a renewed focus on enriching customer experiences while cultivating a positive workplace culture.