You are entering the world of sport with the Challenger Deep. Nobody expected to see you in this playground ...
This does indeed represent a significant change, since it is is our very first sports watch. While it might be a surprise to those who acquainted with us, since we have so far offered only very classical watches, it comes in response to demand from our retailers in Asia.
Why did you particularly opt to explore the world of diving?
We already had chronographs, of which the most recent goes back to 2013 with a new variation of the Léman case. We therefore wanted to unveil a true innovation in our collections. That required a great deal of work, and the big challenge proved to be in ensuring the water resistance of the case. 300 metres is a lot! The Challenger Deep has all the characteristics of a diver’s watch – a rotating bezel in steel, black ceramic or blue mosaic; a black, blue or grey dial with luminescent markers and hands; and a rubber strap. If this watch is a success, we will offer other variations.
The other big innovation lies in the fact that the ladies’ offer is expanding …
The ladies’ watch, in the true sense of the term, is something completely new for us. Until now, we have made many pairs, with a watch in a smaller diameter that could be a ladies’ model. But we have never developed a model that was exclusively for women. With Fair Lady, which is offered in mechanical or quartz versions with various settings and different dial options, we are completely entering the world of women.
What is the development strategy for your models?
We listen to the markets and we respond to their demands. We have many exchanges with retailers who provide us with the necessary feedback on market requirements. We create prototypes, show them to clients and if they are a success, we go for it. We are very well established in the Chinese market and the real challenge lies in producing classical watches that appeal to the Chinese. To ensure that, funnily enough, the latter need to think that these models also appeal to Europeans!
