The Business of Watches Podcast: Baume & Mercier CEO Michael Guenoun Talks Strategy On The Eve Of The Brand's Sale By Richemont
The podcast features an engaging conversation with Michael Guenoun, the CEO of Baume & Mercier, who discusses the brand's current situation on the eve of its sale by Richemont to Italy's Damiani Group. Guenoun shares insights on the challenges facing the brand, including the impact of a strong Swiss franc and rising costs, while emphasizing Baume & Mercier's commitment to remaining within the approachable price segment of the watch market. The discussion also touches on the brand's rich history and its strategies for retail and distribution. Additionally, the episode includes a special guest segment with Adrian Barker from Bark & Jack, who shares his experiences in launching a new dive watch collaboration with Christopher Ward. The conversation delves into the collaboration process, the design philosophy behind the watch, and the broader implications of pricing strategies in the luxury watch market, particularly in light of recent changes by Patek Philippe. The podcast promises a thorough exploration of the current watch industry landscape, inviting listeners to engage with the ongoing business discussions.