Year: 2026

The Watches of Switzerland Foundation has made significant strides in structured charitable giving, donating over £8.5 million to support youth and educational initiatives aimed at addressing disadvantages. CEO Brian Duffy, recently honoured with the King’s Trust Individual Impact Award, highlighted the Foundation’s commitment to long-term partnerships and measurable social impact. Engaging employees in philanthropic efforts has further bolstered participation, with future plans focusing on skills development and community programs. Duffy’s vision underscores the role of business in fostering real change for those in need, transforming corporate responsibility into a powerful societal force.

Rado has reaffirmed its commitment to innovative design amidst a challenging market landscape with the launch of the new DiaStar watch, crafted in collaboration with designer Tej Chauhan. This reimagining of a classic model blends heritage with contemporary aesthetics, featuring a striking gold-coloured case aimed at attracting a younger, design-conscious clientele. As rising material costs reshape the industry, Rado underscores the necessity of a distinctive design identity to thrive, reflecting a broader trend of balancing tradition with modern consumer demands. The new timepiece, retailing at £2,100, encapsulates a story of craftsmanship and emotional resonance, positioning Rado as a leader in the evolving watch market.

Hugh Rice, the family-run jeweller, reached remarkable heights with revenue peaking at £24 million in 2017, buoyed by its partnership with Pandora. Even as Pandora moved to consolidate its retail presence in the UK, Hugh Rice managed to boost turnover to £38 million by mid-2019. However, recent figures reveal a downturn, with FY24 sales dropping to £12.8 million, marking a 2.5% decline. The company is refocusing its strategy, transitioning from fine jewellery to a greater emphasis on luxury watches, amidst ongoing operational challenges in the post-pandemic retail landscape.

The traditional watch industry is facing an existential crisis as smartwatches leave luxury brands like Rolex in their wake. As John Doe, a third-generation watchmaker, reveals, these timepieces are evolving beyond mere timekeepers to become vessels for personal stories. In response to this shifting landscape, Doe launched Split Watches, a brand focused on mental health, promising therapy donations with each sale. Advocating for a return to authentic watch experiences, he urges consumers to “reclaim the wrist for real watches” amidst a society increasingly distracted by technology.

Casio has launched a limited edition BABY-G watch in collaboration with Los Angeles brand MadHappy. The BG169MH-7, an updated version of the classic BG-169, melds a nostalgic look with contemporary designs, emphasizing themes of positivity and mental health awareness. Priced at $120, the watch is shock and water resistant up to 100 meters, featuring a glittery pink dial and co-branded presentation packaging. It is available for purchase on gshock.com and madhappy.com.

Studex marks a significant milestone as it celebrates 50 years in the ear-piercing industry, renowned for its innovative System 75 technology that prioritises safety and hygiene. As it looks towards the future, the company plans to expand its product range with exclusive jewellery collections set to launch in 2026, while continuing to empower industry professionals through robust training programs. With a commitment to evolving industry standards, Studex aims to shape the future of ear piercing.

A new documentary series, “Man of the Hour,” exploring the artistry of independent watchmakers, will stream in the U.S. from January 9. Having debuted in Asia and the Middle East last November, the series features eight episodes hosted by Wei Koh, showcasing the craft and innovation behind notable watch brands. Viewers can also look forward to the companion podcast “After Hours,” launching concurrently. A second season focusing on prestigious Swiss watch manufacturers is already in development.

The world of high horology is set to find its voice on television with the upcoming series “Man of the Hour,” hosted by Wei Koh, which will premiere globally in 2026. This eight-episode venture will spotlight the journeys and craftsmanship of independent watchmakers, offering insights into a niche art form often overshadowed by major luxury brands. As the series delves into personal narratives and the intricate craft behind each timepiece, it aims to resonate with a broader audience, transforming perceptions of an industry traditionally wary of public scrutiny. Future seasons may even bring the spotlight to iconic Swiss luxury brands, promising an exciting evolution in horological storytelling.

At Dubai Watch Week, TAG Heuer’s CEO Antoine Pin unveiled the brand’s forward-thinking approach to watchmaking, with an emphasis on its research and development hub, TH-LAB. The spotlight was on innovative technologies like 3D printing and advanced materials, highlighting a significant shift within the Swiss watch industry towards blending tradition and modernity. With upcoming plans to integrate AI into their R&D processes, TAG Heuer aims to redefine luxury timepieces, as evidenced by the exclusive Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph Air 1, a limited edition watch priced at CHF 150,000. Pin’s vision underscores a commitment to not only craftsmanship but also to the groundbreaking advancements that can shape the future of horology.

In a striking blend of luxury and design, Yohji Yamamoto has teamed up with Hublot to unveil the Classic Fusion Yohji Yamamoto All Black Camo watch. Limited to only 300 pieces worldwide, this exquisite timepiece features a unique black-on-black camouflage dial, embodying a stealthy sophistication. Powered by the robust HUB1110 self-winding movement, it offers a 48-hour power reserve and is presented in a remarkable box adorned with Yamamoto’s signature. This collaboration marks a significant evolution in their partnership, enhancing Hublot’s sporty elegance with Yamamoto’s unmistakable avant-garde touch.