Watches and Wonders: Interviews with the Experts in Geneva

We spoke with the faces behind leading luxury watch brands at Watches and Wonders Geneva 2023. We learnt about the latest innovations, inventions, and novelties in the world of horology. Read on to discover exactly what the experts had to say at the most anticipated event in the world of watches.

14 APRIL 2023 - ELLEN MADDEN | JEWELLERY WRITER

Watches and Wonders Geneva 2023, the biggest event in the horological calendar, is officially over. It was a week of unveiling inventions, trying on timepieces, and discovering luxury brand novelties in the capital of Swiss watchmaking.

We spoke with the faces behind the brands at TUDOR, IWC Schaffhausen, ZENITH, and Bell & Ross, all about the inspiration and ingenuity behind their collections and timepieces. They told us about the emerging trends in prestige and luxury watches, technological advances they’ve designed and built in their watches, and exciting new horological innovations. We also spoke about the brand novelties for 2023, and what makes each timepiece tick.

TUDOR novelties with Mr Christophe Chevalier:

TUDOR’s timepieces for 2023 are here. With exciting new additions to its iconic Black Bay and Royal collections, TUDOR's born to dare attitude takes inspiration from its past to lay the foundations for its future.

We caught up with Mr Christophe Chevalier, from the Communications Team at TUDOR Geneva, at Watches and Wonders last week. He told us the story behind the Swiss watchmakers, the novelties for 2023 and the exciting “headline” timepiece.

So, what is it? And what makes it so special?

It’s the novelty Black Bay timepiece with a burgundy bezel. It’s built with advanced technologies, a master chronometer certification, and an evolution of TUDOR’s known and loved aesthetic. Mr Chevalier predicts it’s bound to be a “fan favourite”, thanks to the perfect proportions, and a versatility which allows it to be dressed up or dressed down, and sure to make any outfit.

The expansion of the Black Bay collection also includes various novelty timepieces in new styles, colourways, and dial sizes (with a mechanical movement that is second-to-none).

The iconic Royal also returns with new additions to its collection. Introducing: the warm chocolate brown and the brushed salmon dials. With case sizes from 28mm to 41mm and available in Ladies’ and Men’s – there are many options to delight over. As its namesake suggests, these timepieces are the epitome of sophistication, while promising a first-class technological performance.

As Mr Chevalier, states, TUDOR is known for its, “quality, robustness, and accessibility”, and the novelties for 2023 are no exception.

Watch the full interview with Mr Christophe Chevalier, from the Communications Team at TUDOR here.

TUDOR timepieces are available online and at selected Ernest Jones stores including our TUDOR Shop in Shop at Ernest Jones Derby which will open 15th of April, 2023.

ZENITH novelties with Mr Julien Tornare:

ZENITH went all in on its Pilot and Defy Skyline collections at Watches and Wonders. From the sleek titanium Defy Revival Shadow to the latest iterations of the Pilot, the brand knows exactly what we're looking for in a watch. It’s safe to say the collections took flight. ZENITH introduced a new generation of timepieces with a flyback function and high-frequency movement, name the Pilot.

We spoke with CEO, Julien Tornare about the collection and he didn’t waste any time telling us his favourite piece. The Pilot Big Date Flyback in black ceramic (which he has been wearing for the past 10 days). It’s “one of the most comfortable and aerodynamic watches [he’s] ever worn.”

“We already know that this is going to be a bestseller,” Mr Tornare said.

The best bit? Every ZENITH watch has its own ZENITH movement.

“We are one of the last few brands that can say we only use our own movement.”

“That’s what people are looking for today,” he said.

ZENITH’s pursuit of the sky dates to 1888 when ZENITH’s founder protected the name ‘Pilote’ in French and later ‘Pilot’ in English in 1904. A bold move that put him ahead of his time.

Today, ZENITH is the only brand allowed to feature the coveted word ‘Pilot’ across the dial. Mr Tornare reflects on this historic move and the importance of earning them a reputation as a “very contemporary, very dynamic” brand.

It continues to build on its legacy of innovation. With unmatched horological movements, a focus on creativity, and an aesthetic that allows anyone to ‘reach for the stars’ – ZENITH welcomes a new generation of timepieces that go above and beyond.

Watch the full interview with ZENITH's CEO, Julien Tornare here.

IWC Schaffhausen novelties with Mr Walter Volpers:

IWC Schaffhausen revealed its legendary Ingenieur collection at Watches and Wonders in Geneva.

Originally designed in the ‘50s, The Ingenieur was redesigned in the ‘70s by revered Swiss watch designer, Gérald Genta. Genta introduced a new product of sports watches with an integrated H-link bracelet, a screw-on bezel with five recesses, and a dial with a special structure.

Today, IWC Schaffhausen revisits this iconic design introducing the Ingenieur Automatic 40 that builds on Genta’s legacy. A sleek aesthetic, advanced technology, and second-to-none ergonomics.

We spoke with Mr Walter Volpers, Director of Manufacturing at IWC Schaffhausen about the collection.

“We’re bringing it back from the past to the future.”

“I believe the Ingenieur is one of the most beautiful pieces we’ve bought to the market,” Mr Volpers said.

The bold new Ingenieur has four iterations. Three are crafted from stainless steel and one in titanium. Mr Volpers talks about IWC initially introducing, “titanium to the watch industry in the ‘80s.”

“I’m in love with titanium. I love the material. I love how light it is. I love the colour,” he said.

Watch the full interview with IWC Schaffhausen’s Director of Manufacturing, Mr Walter Volpers here.

IWC Schaffhausen is available at our Chichester store. To see the timepieces in person, or to chat with our experts, book a virtual appointment online.