CSQ What areas of mechanical watchmaking offer the most room for innovation?
Edouard Meylan We are living a complete mutation of the watchmaking industry with digitalization. I would say that business models are being totally revised, so this is the field that offers the most room for innovation, even if the other areas also represent opportunities.
CSQ How much of your time is spent with the engineering team discussing new timepiece concepts and ideas?
EM If we consider the whole process of R&D, design, product development, with a balance between the present and the products that are coming out now, with the challenges that it entails, and the planning for the next five years, it represents between 20% and 25% of my time.
CSQ A recent article in WSJ Magazine stated that the most expensive item ever sold on the Chinese e-Commerce giant JD.com was an H. Moser watch. Was this significant for your brand?
EM Of course, this is significant and we are very proud. But it is only the first step. This must become recurrent. It is easier to sell entry-level products online but we see that things are evolving and we hope to be able to sell more and more high-value watches this way. This requires time, because we need to educate customers and such a purchase demands confidence and trust.
CSQ Where is the most growth potential for H. Moser?
EM The U.S. will be a very strong focus for us moving forward as we have just started to really develop this market. China as well because it is the biggest market in the world and we are starting to be well represented there since our arrival in 2018. This year we aim to open two boutiques in China.
CSQ What does H. Moser’s slogan “Very Rare” mean to you?
EM Exclusivity, quality, and a bicentennial knowledge.
