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 Tell
us about your new collections. what is the inspiration?
We launched four new collections with particular emphasis on
Nabucco, the newest gents’ mechanical watch collection. This
is the first time in Raymond Weil history that we have such powerful,
massive and virile models. Nabucco is masculine, large-sized (from
44 to 46 mm), technically brilliant (mechanical movement with automatic
winding and water resistant up to 200 metres), striking and luxurious
with ultra-modern design and fusion of material (steel case and
bracelet mixed with composite carbon-fibre). We have also launched
a new gents and ladies mechanical collection called the Freelancer,
which is a tribute to my two sons, Elie (Marketing Director) and
Pierre (Area Sales Director and RW Club Director) and their grandfather
for the independent spirit that he cultivated and transmitted to
the brand’s generations yet to come. Two new steps have been
achieved — a visible pendulum was introduced and a new feminine
collection that is entirely mechanical.
 How
would you define Raymond Weil’s position in the luxury watch
segment?
Founded over 30 years ago, we have managed to stay different
and retain our independence and family character. Our Geneva-based
brand belongs to the limited circle of Swiss watchmakers still in
family hands. We are proud to say that today we are one of the last
remaining ‘pearls’ of the Swiss watch industry to have
three generations of family involved in the business.
what is the creative process involved in designing
watches?
The perfect balance between branding and product design is
crucial in the creative process. We also have one of the most efficient
research and development departments in the Swiss watch industry,
launched under my supervision in 1999. This department enables the
brand to control the entire creative and design process. It has
positioned the brand at the cutting-edge of technology. This is
evident in the host of innovations — ranging from the GMT function
complication on the celebrated Don Giovanni Cosi Grande Two Time
Zones to the patented system of easily interchangeable bracelets
for the Shine ladies’ collection.
How do you view India as a luxury market?
We have noticed during the last couple of years that there
has been an evolution in terms of the kind of features Indians look
for in a luxury watch. They have become increasingly fond of watches
featuring complications and of course high quality.
What are the essential drawbacks of the Indian
luxury market?
The potential of India in terms of economy, development, etc
is huge and everybody is aware of the strong growth potential and
evolution of this market both at the present time and in the future.
So, I don’t see any particular drawbacks in the Indian luxury
market.
What are the main achievements of your company?
Firstly, I am very proud of the international development of
Raymond Weil and its successful repositioning while maintaining
a family identity. Also, the launch of a research and development
department in 1999 gave the company a fresh impetus.
How do you plan to handle competition?
We intend to handle competition by developing innovative strategic
initiatives in terms of products and communication. We also strive
to develop the right product at the right time with the ideal communication
strategy, which is in coherence and in continuity with our core
values.
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