"Collectors Are Helping Me Avoid Mistakes" — A Talk With Georges Kern On The House Of Brands
During a discussion at Dubai Watch Week, Georges Kern shared insights on reviving the brands within his House of Brands group, which includes Gallet, Breitling, and Universal Genève. Despite a challenging economic climate marked by inflation and decreased consumer spending, Kern remains focused on innovation and strategic launches. He revealed plans to launch Universal Genève in April and Gallet at the Geneva Watch Days in August 2026, emphasizing the importance of spacing the launches to manage expectations effectively. Kern expressed optimism about the positive reactions from collectors and the unique positioning of these brands in the market. Kern acknowledged the high expectations surrounding the revival of these historic brands, particularly Universal Genève, which boasts a rich legacy. To navigate these challenges, he has established an advisory board of collectors to help prevent past mistakes. Kern is determined to create innovative offerings that set these brands apart in a competitive landscape, aiming to reach CHF 2 billion in turnover across the three brands. He aspires for Universal Genève to occupy a distinctive place in the luxury watch segment, avoiding traditional constraints while surprising the market with fresh and exciting products in 2026.
