This is The collaboration of 2023 - Swatch and Blancpain join forces

This is the collaboration of 2023 - Swatch and Blancpain join forces

 

Photo courtesy - Blancpain x Swatch 

 

In a world where innovation and partnership define success, Swatch's CEO Nick Hayek Jr., the mastermind behind the MoonSwatch phenomenon, recently made a groundbreaking announcement while enjoying a Nicaraguan Gilbert de Montsalvat Gran Toro Classic cigar at Swatch HQ. Alongside Marc Hayek, Blancpain's CEO, he revealed a collaboration that is just jaw-dropping.

 

Conversations between Swatch and Blancpain began in August 2022, six months after the MoonSwatch launch. While Swatch explored various collaboration options, other luxury brands expressed their interest in teaming up to expand their reach to aspirational customers. Swatch's unique approach to luxury watchmaking through MoonSwatch had caught the eye of the industry.

 

Photo courtesy - Blancpain x Swatch 

 

What sets this collaboration apart is Blancpain's huge enthusiasm, driven by Marc Hayek. Unlike Omega, a well-known watch brand with global recognition, Blancpain occupies a distinct niche in the luxury watch market. This collaboration offers an opportunity for Blancpain to introduce itself to a broader audience.

Blancpain CEO Mark Hayek

 

The design of this unique collection has been carefully crafted by Gregory Kissling, Head of Special Projects for the CEO of Swatch Group. While specifics remain undisclosed, it is expected to feature well-considered design elements and subtle nods to Blancpain's heritage.

 

Gregory Kissling, OMEGA vice president product attends the Omega Christmas Dinner 2022 at Cracco Restaurant on December 14, 2022 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Jacopo Raule/Getty Images for Omega) 

 

The collection will comprise five watches, each named after one of the world's oceans. The Indian Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean will be represented by modern Blancpain models. The Arctic Ocean and the Antarctic Ocean will pay homage to historical Blancpain models. While the exact dial colors remain a mystery, it is confirmed that each watch will feature brand-new bioceramic colors inspired by nudibranchs native to their respective oceans, a concept conceived by Marc Hayek, an avid diver.

 

The collaboration has fueled anticipation for an accessible version of the iconic Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, given Blancpain's legacy as a pioneer in dive watches. Coupled with Swatch's previous success in the dive watch segment, this collaboration holds a big appeal for enthusiasts.

 

As for the future, Marc Hayek remains open to possibilities, emphasizing that nothing is predefined. If this collaboration resonates with customers, more exciting ventures may follow.

 

The retail strategy mirrors the MoonSwatch release, with watches available in Swatch stores worldwide and Blancpain boutiques showcasing them as display items. The sale is scheduled to start on September 9.

 

Main banner courtesy - SWATCH/BLANCPAIN/GETTY IMAGES/VLADGANS
Information Source - https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/swatch-blancpain-collab-tease-2023