Gucci launched a new version of its Gucci Dive collection; how has it been going on the various markets?
Some people may know that Gucci has a long history in this sphere, having launched in 1960 an entire nautical collection that included bags, shoes and accessories for boats and yachts. Since the launch of the first Gucci Dive watch in 2015, the collection has become a pillar line for Gucci. This year, we revamped it, elevating the design's adventurous spirit to even greater heights. With contemporary updates, new details, enriched craftsmanship and enhanced diving performance, including water resistance to 300 meters, all the timepieces have proven highly successful in the market. Inspired by the designs of those original Gucci nautical accessories from the 1960s, the new wind rose motif on the caseback also adds a uniquely sophisticated touch that customers really appreciate.
Gucci has made quite a significant shift in its strategy on the watch market, focusing on high-end, why?
With over half a century of watchmaking expertise, Gucci's shift towards high-end watchmaking was a natural evolution. What started as an under-the-radar development, creating special orders for customers, gained momentum in 2019 with the introduction of a High Jewelry Collection. It was only logical to extend this to a High Watchmaking Collection. This strategic shift allowed Gucci to create unique pieces that highlight the brand's signature creativity and the artistry of the watchmaking. Each high-end timepiece Gucci creates highlights a commitment to innovation and excellence, reflecting a rich heritage and dedication to producing exceptional and luxurious designs.
Your high watchmaking collections don’t look like any other brand; what would you say is the most important motivation when you create them?
Gucci's approach to High Watchmaking is driven by a passion to produce technical masterpieces that symbolize the brand's rich history and heritage. Each meticulously crafted timepiece displays technical prowess as well as the House's creativity and innovation. With each design, Gucci strives to tell an original story with a unique appeal and personality to captivate enthusiasts who look for the unexpected. These timepieces transcend mere functionality; they are conversation pieces and wearable art, embodying the passion instilled into their creation.
You’ve been organizing private exhibitions during Watches and Wonders for four years; has there been any major surprise (with clients’ reactions for instance)?
Gucci is always thrilled by the excitement and enthusiasm clients and the press have shown for the collections over the last four years. Each year, their incredible reactions reaffirm the impact and importance of the work, and it's truly gratifying to witness it firsthand. Gucci always arrives aiming to surprise and delight, raising the bar year after year. One of the most pleasurable aspects is how personalization is increasingly permeating the timepieces. It allows Gucci to connect deeply with collectors, as each watch reflects their individuality and taste alongside the House's creativity. Their imaginative requests and the joy they express upon seeing their vision come to life are constant sources of inspiration, driving a commitment to innovation and excellence in high watchmaking.
How important is this event for you?
This event is incredibly important. Gucci has an extensive 52-year history in watchmaking, and it's crucial to highlight the House’s enduring expertise and craftsmanship. Indeed, many customers are still surprised to learn about the depth of Gucci's watchmaking heritage, and this event provides an ideal platform to highlight this legacy and significantly enhances credibility and legitimacy within the watch market. It offers a unique opportunity to demonstrate the evolution of Gucci's craft, the innovation of the collections, and its dedication to maintaining the highest standards of quality and creativity. Through this event, the House can also connect more deeply with watch enthusiasts and collectors, reinforcing their trust in the brand and fostering a deeper appreciation for the timepieces.
You’ve got 3 watch collections; do you think you’d need additional ones in the future?
This year, Gucci has focused on main pillars such as the G-Timeless, Gucci Dive and GUCCI 25H collections, as well as introducing new lines like Gucci Interlocking and the upcoming G-Flat collection, offering both men's and women's versions. Looking ahead, there is the potential to explore the purely female watch segment further. This is an area that Gucci has historically been very strong in, so there's an aim to build on this legacy. Over the coming months, several new collections tailored to this segment will be created, reinforcing the House's commitment to providing diverse and innovative options for all customers.
Do you think there are synergies with your jewelry collections, for ladies and/or men?
All Gucci collections are designed with a consistent creative vision and thematic thread, allowing for an effortless mix-and-match approach across the House. While specialized teams with the required expertise and focus develop the watches and jewelry separately, Gucci works hard to maintain a harmonious overall brand aesthetic, given the underlying unified creative direction that provides a foundation that can subtly enhance the interplay between collections.
What does it mean for Gucci to have its G-Timeless Planetarium selected at the GPHG ?
For Gucci, having the G-Timeless Planetarium selected at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) is an immense honor and a significant achievement. Its incredible design is a unique tour-de-force, defined by the 12 rotating precious stones that circle the diamond-set central tourbillon when activated by the special start-and-stop function. With an exquisite gemstone setting including opals, garnets, beryls, peridot, tourmaline, topaz, tanzanite, amethysts and rubellites, the watch's design represents a rainbow of color and light that's further enhanced by the textured guilloché base and decorated caseback. The GPHG's recognition is a testament to Gucci's commitment to excellence and innovation in watchmaking and the design's exceptional complexity, inimitable allure and steadfast individuality.
