Author: chrisstoner040575

Omega marks 30 years of association with James Bond by launching a new collection that intriguingly blends the timeless allure of 007 with the sinister charm of Spectre. The six-watch series, featuring distinct emblems on their rotors, includes models dedicated to both Bond and his adversaries, priced at £7,200—positioning them as a more accessible luxury than Rolex. With options reflecting iconic symbols from the franchise, enthusiasts can now choose a timepiece that resonates with their favorite aspects of the Bond narrative, from Blofeld’s cat to the tuxedo-clad spy himself.

The WatchPro UK Awards are set for November 23, with the shortlist now revealed. Enthusiasts can influence the results by voting through the provided link. In this edition, we also feature an exclusive interview with Chronography’s Karl Brown, offering a sneak peek into what attendees can expect at the upcoming show. Additionally, we explore Hong Kong’s dynamic vintage watch market and present a summary of must-see autumn watch launches. Stay informed—read more in our latest issue.

The WatchPro UK Awards have announced their 2023 finalists across 26 categories, spotlighting the best in the watch industry. Winners will be chosen through a combination of public votes and expert jury evaluations, with results unveiled at a gala in London on 23 November. As the awards mark their tenth anniversary, new categories reflect the evolving British watch market, inviting public participation until the voting deadline on 7 October.

Pandora has officially opened a state-of-the-art jewellery facility in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, backed by a $150 million investment. This facility, the company’s first outside Thailand, is set to significantly boost production capabilities, enabling the creation of up to 60 million pieces annually and increasing manufacturing capacity by 50%. The strategic move diversifies Pandora’s manufacturing footprint, reflecting its commitment to growth in the competitive Asian market.

Wolf has launched its Bella Den Jewellery Safe, a sophisticated solution for those with extensive collections of jewellery and valuables. Showcasing a signature pleated design in an elegant ivory finish, the safe features three removable trays, allowing for organized storage of earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. Exclusively part of Wolf’s Bella collection, this new offering underscores the brand’s dedication to blending style with practicality, ensuring collectors can store their treasured items securely.

Antiquorum is poised to make a significant impact in the US auction market with its upcoming sale on October 18 in New York. The Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces auction will feature eight exceptional F.P. Journe watches, including the striking Centigraphe Souverain. Also on offer are rare pieces from iconic brands such as Patek Philippe and Richard Mille, catering to both seasoned collectors and new bidders. The auction underscores Antiquorum’s renewed commitment to the US, with options for in-person, online, and telephone participation.

In a poignant chapter for Seiko U.K., managing director David Edwards finalized the company’s accounts before his death in July. The firm reported a slight revenue decrease to £27 million and an operating loss of £215,000, yet net assets stood at £28 million. Despite pressures on the luxury market, demand for Seiko remains robust, bolstered by consumer preference for quality at a fair price. Globally, the company’s watch sales surged by 16% in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting strong performances across a diverse range of product lines.

The Leaders in Luxury event recently celebrated Houlden’s 50th anniversary, a milestone marked by rich discussions on the evolving landscape of luxury retail. Established in 1975 by Stuart Laing, Houlden continues to champion independent jewellers through collaboration and innovation. Highlights included the prestigious Houlden Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to the community, and the launch of a commemorative book detailing Houlden’s significant history. Managing Director Denise McLaughlin underscored the enduring principles of independence and collaboration that remain central to the organization’s mission as it embarks on the next chapter.

Four exceptional Rolex Daytonas, part of the exclusive Four Seasons collection, have been sold for a staggering £37.3 million at a Phillips auction in London. The proceeds will benefit the Federer Foundation and conservation group Re, co-founded by Leonardo DiCaprio. The Summer Daytona led the sale, fetching £10.3 million, while the entire collection showcases unique designs representative of each season. Rolex’s decision to auction rather than privately sell these one-of-a-kind pieces marks a significant moment in the luxury watch market, reflecting a potential shift in the brand’s approach to exclusivity.

In a recent episode of Talking Shop, Scott Erickson from HappyOrNot sheds light on the evolving landscape of customer satisfaction. By utilizing real-time micro-feedback in retail environments, HappyOrNot challenges traditional measurement methods, as highlighted in their Q2 2026 Retail CX Pulse report. Erickson advocates for a more nuanced approach to customer experience, aiming to enhance retail interactions through immediate insights.