The Diamond Dispatch

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.

The Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ) has appointed Jason Allum as its new chairman, succeeding Michael Aldridge after a nine-year tenure. Allum, a director at a founding member business, aims to guide the CMJ towards sustainability and enhanced growth for its members. He stressed the importance of the CMJ network amidst significant changes in the jewellery sector, pledging to collaborate closely with fellow directors to strengthen independent businesses across the UK and Ireland.

Tiffany and Co has unveiled its latest Bird on a Rock collection, featuring stunning jewellery that artfully combines sculptural birds and abstract wing designs. This collection revives a longstanding brand motif while incorporating feather-inspired creations, blending heritage with modern artistry. The meticulously crafted pieces reflect Tiffany’s commitment to luxury, inviting individuals to embrace artistry in their personal style. A spokesperson emphasized the collection’s aim to capture the beauty of nature through elegant design, reaffirming the brand’s status in the fine jewellery market.

On September 28, Phillips will auction a rare collection of gem-set Rolex Daytonas, with all proceeds benefiting Roger Federer’s Federer Foundation and the environmental charity Re:wild. The initiative is expected to attract considerable attention, with over 1,000 bidders eyeing a potential CHF 4 million haul. Following this, a unique F.P. Journe chronograph, crafted in 18ct gold and platinum, will also be auctioned to support the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, highlighting the soaring demand for F.P. Journe timepieces amidst a record-breaking year for the brand.

In a striking demonstration of divergent pricing strategies within the Swiss watch industry, Omega has launched its new 38mm Speedmaster collection at £5,600, while Zenith’s Chronomaster models command nearly £9,700 each. Amid a backdrop of an 8% rise in luxury watch exports, Omega remains committed to competitive pricing to boost sales, in stark contrast to Zenith’s strategy of significantly increasing average retail prices despite dwindling production. As the debate over the balance between luxury status and market viability intensifies, Omega appears to navigate the challenges more adeptly than its pricier rival.

In a striking episode of WatchGuys’ My Collection series, Angela White, popularly known as Blac Chyna, unveiled her luxurious watch aspirations. Featuring iconic brands such as Rolex, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe, White’s selections showcased a blend of classic elegance and bold statement pieces. Among her favorites was the exclusive Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Frosted Gold, valued at approximately $150,000. As she navigated the challenge of curating her ideal collection, she ultimately decided to retain the frosted gold piece, gift a Day-Date model, and sell a Yacht-Master, offering a glimpse into her sophisticated taste in horology.

Kering has appointed Charlotte Fournet and Krizia Cucurachi as CEOs of Pomellato and DoDo, effective 15 September 2026. Both executives will operate from Milan, focusing on growth in the contemporary fine jewellery sector. Fournet, with a robust background at Gucci and Bottega Veneta, is set to enhance Pomellato’s brand stature and distribution channels. Meanwhile, Cucurachi’s extensive experience in brand building positions her well to lead DoDo into its next growth phase. Kering’s leadership emphasizes the importance of jewellery as a crucial growth area for the company.