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Mon, April 14 2025
Breitling's Expansion and Homage to Cycling Legends
Breitling, under the leadership of CEO Georges Kern, is expanding its presence in the luxury market by acquiring historic trademarks like Universal Gen ve and Gallet. The brand has also honored iconic cyclists Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali with limited edition Top Time chronographs, reflecting their legacies through unique designs inspired by their bikes and jerseys; the Top Time B01 Fausto Coppi features a 41mm stainless steel case with a retro aesthetic and a turquoise calfskin strap, powered by the Breitling 01 automatic movement, and the brand opened a new store in Leeds that is performing well.
Rolex unveiled its new Settimo bracelet at Watches and Wonders, designed exclusively for the Rolex 1908 in yellow gold, featuring an elegant design with seven rounded links and a hidden crown clasp, offering exceptional comfort reminiscent of vintage styles and potentially establishing a new benchmark in luxury watch design.
Luxury watchmakers like Rolex, Cartier, and Audemars Piguet have significantly increased prices due to rising gold prices and demand, with gold nearing $3,180 per ounce. The U.S. is imposing steep tariffs of 31% on Swiss watches, which may force luxury brands to increase prices, potentially benefiting high-end brands like Patek Philippe. Authorized dealers for Rolex Certified Pre-Owned watches are increasing their inventory ahead of a proposed tariff on Swiss imports, and Rolex presented a limited collection named Perpetual Victory 80, blending historical symbolism with cutting-edge technology and memorial design, but also faced pressure from markets and Republican senators after Donald Trump unexpectedly suspended tariffs.
Jaeger-LeCoultre's Focus on Innovation and Heritage
J rome Lambert, CEO of Jaeger-LeCoultre, is focusing on watchmaking creativity and revolutionary products, unveiling the Atmos Infinite Halo at the Living on Air exhibition in Milan, showcasing the technological evolution of the Atmos Clock concept and highlighting the Reverso at Watches and Wonders, emphasizing its multifaceted design and technical expertise.
Panerai unveiled the Luminor GMT Power Reserve Ceramica (PAM01574) during Milan Design Week, marrying rugged performance with modern elegance. It features a lightweight ceramic case, an in-house P.9012 caliber automatic movement with multiple functions, and a blue sun-brushed dial. This debut occurred after showcasing at Watches and Wonders in Geneva, where the brand solidified its reputation as an innovative watchmaker and creative design collaborator, particularly noted for their use of ceramic.
