Was Baselworld 2016 positive for Chronoswiss?
Yes, it was a good event. We had quite a lot of visits to our booth, we got some orders, and we were delighted with the feedback we received from our existing and potential clients. With the Regulator we have gone back to our roots. And the demand was there. For a more detailed analysis of the results, we’ll have to wait for our post-Basel report.
What about the beginning of the year?
It’s difficult to say; it’s still too early to extract the figures. But with current events, the crisis in China and particularly with the terrorist attacks of recent months, let’s just say things have been better. I’m not going to lie and tell you everything is wonderful, but we do have some very healthy markets, such as Japan, and tourism in Switzerland and Europe is strong.
What strategy has Chronoswiss implemented to get on top of the current problems, such as a faltering Asian market and a drop in international sales?
We are putting our faith in our products. Having good ideas and good products can only help to bring us through the crisis the watchmaking industry is experiencing at the moment. We can’t change the world, we can’t alter external events; we just have to adapt to the circumstances as best we can. Also, it’s essential that we continue to nurture our relationship with existing clients. We need to forge a strong link between the company and our loyal buyers.
What projects are in the pipeline for the rest of the year?
We are going to promote our Regulator collection, find new sales outlets and control them as best we can. We will also be increasing our involvement with the motor racing world. Expect to see us in Austria for the Kitzbühel Alpine Rally in June.
Can we expect any more new products this year?
Yes. Before the end of the year we will launch a perpetual calendar and a table clock. For next year we’re developing a ladies’ version of the Regulator, with a smaller 34 mm diameter.
Every brand has its own identity, its own message and its own aesthetic. What is yours?
Our message is: detail! Everything is in the details, however small they may be. Our watches must convey emotion, that’s important. And emotion comes from attention to detail. That is the identity of Chronoswiss.
The Regulator returns to its roots
The Regulator collection has been brought up to date for Baselworld with the new Sirius Flying Regulator Jumping Hour. This jumping hours watch from Chronoswiss has a distinctive 3D display: the minutes and hours counters occupy the lower storey of the dial, strikingly decorated with a guilloché motif, while the seconds display appears to float on top. The domed crystal enhances the 3D effect. The sophisticated guillochage, a recurring motif for Chronoswiss, offers an amusing trompe l’oeil effect: depending on the angle, the geometric design looks either like a chequerboard, or a basketweave. Driven by a self-winding mechanical movement, manufacture calibre C.283, the timepiece has a 42-hour power reserve. The model comes in a variety of case materials and colours, with lined leather straps to match.
