Day: 21 September 2026

British watch brand Sekonda has launched its first smart ring, retailing at £79.99, designed to blend health monitoring with a stylish, jewellery-inspired aesthetic. Available from today at various retailers including H Samuel, Argos, and Amazon, the Sekonda Smart Ring aims to democratize wearable technology by providing health insights without the burden of premium pricing or subscriptions. Chief executive Pete Ogley emphasized the growing consumer demand for practical yet elegant wearable devices, marking a significant step in Sekonda’s expansion into the smart device market.

Wongs Jewellers has clinched the Social Storytelling award at the 2026 Liverpool Celebrates Awards, celebrating their creative collaboration with local eatery Derek’s. This partnership produced a unique sandwich honoring Chinese New Year, resonating with the community and reaching a wider audience through an engaging social media campaign. The initiative earned Wongs recognition in three award categories, underscoring the brand’s growing prominence in the industry. Mr. Wong praised the fusion of food and culture as a significant aspect of the project, reflecting the vibrant spirit of Liverpool.

De Beers London has launched its Vibrations High Jewellery collection, inspired by the tranquil inland waters of Botswana, South Africa, and Canada. This exquisite range showcases rare pink and purple diamonds, including a stunning 2.07-carat Fancy Intense Pink diamond, and marks the debut of cabochon-cut diamonds in their offerings. Celebrating unparalleled craftsmanship, the collection emphasizes innovative design, highlighted by pieces such as the Undulation series, which reflects the unique beauty of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Chief executive Emmanuelle Nodale states that Vibrations is a testament to De Beers’ commitment to exceptional artistry and the celebration of rare gemstones.

Abbott Lyon has introduced Abbott Lyon Man, a fresh sub-brand focused on men’s jewellery and accessories. The launch features a range of personalised items, including the Rivet Necklace, Ring, and Bangle, priced between £69 and £89, as well as the Mayfair Brown Leather Watch at £159. With an emphasis on customisation, items can be engraved with personal messages, reflecting the brand’s commitment to modern, meaningful design. A new selection of leather accessories, including wash bags and card holders, is set to debut in October 2023, catering to the rising demand for personalised men’s fashion.

Swiss watch exports to the USA plummeted by 19.4% in August, a decline attributed to previous year’s inflated shipments ahead of tariff changes. Despite this setback, overall exports rose by 1.7%, buoyed by strong performances in the UK and India. Year-to-date figures indicate an 8.3% drop in US sales compared to last year, while August data suggests a potential positive shift, marking a 9.1% growth that may point towards a stronger 2026 for Swiss watchmakers.

Norqain has forged a strategic alliance with the Watches of Switzerland Group to expand its presence in the UK and Ireland, debuting at Goldsmiths stores in Trafford Centre and Lakeside. This marks a significant move for the independent Swiss watch brand, which aims to diversify its distribution while attracting a growing consumer base interested in unique, founder-led timepieces. Notable figures from the industry attended the launch event, celebrating a partnership that promises to enhance Norqain’s visibility and stature in the competitive UK market.

Bucherer has reported a robust 11% rise in sales, reaching £109.2 million, despite losing its luxury watch concessions at Selfridges in January 2025. The Rolex-affiliated retailer has pivoted its strategy, focusing on its Covent Garden location while retaining a Rolex store and pre-owned watch islands nearby. A new lease for a luxury retail property signed for January 2026 signals Bucherer’s commitment to strengthening its presence in central London. While operating profit has seen a significant boost, it still falls short of past record highs, prompting the company to seek improved sales and efficiency in inventory management.

Dublin’s Smock Alley Theatre is set to host Chronography, the city’s inaugural independent watch event, this October. Featuring a diverse array of global microbrands and local artisans, the exhibition aims to illuminate the burgeoning Irish watchmaking industry. Founded by Karl Brown of Chrome Calibre, the initiative reflects a growing interest in unique timepieces, with initial ticket sales surpassing expectations. Attendees can look forward to engaging presentations and discussions, marking a pivotal moment for horology enthusiasts in Ireland.