Leica Watches & Accessories: Henrik Ekdahl on The Business of Watches Podcast
The episode explores Leica’s deep-rooted connection to watchmaking, tracing its origins back to founder Ernst Leitz’s 19th‑century training in Neuchâtel and the company’s evolution from optical instruments to luxury timepieces. Henrik Ekdal, the newly appointed Managing Director of Leica’s watches and accessories division, discusses how the brand’s heritage of precision engineering informs its current watch collections, which remain limited to under 5,000 pieces per year and are sold exclusively through Leica stores and online channels. The conversation also highlights Leica’s strategic vision to expand its watch portfolio while leveraging its expertise in mechanics, design, and the broader luxury market. Listeners hear anecdotes about Ekdal’s career path—from automotive leadership roles to executive positions at IWC—culminating in his return to Leica after more than two decades. The discussion touches on recent milestones such as the 2022 launch of Leica’s modern watch line, the brand’s ambition to grow production, and collaborations that underscore its commitment to craftsmanship. Throughout, the podcast emphasizes the synergy between Leica’s iconic camera legacy and its emerging presence in the high‑end watch industry, inviting enthusiasts to follow the brand’s ongoing journey.
Buying Time Analysis: This story highlights Leica's strategic expansion from optics into luxury watchmaking, showcasing Henrik Ekdahl’s leadership in reviving the brand’s timepiece division and its significance for the convergence of precision engineering and high‑end fashion.
