We have talked with Jean-Christophe Babin about luxury world, watches and Geneva Watch Days.
As the CEO of one of the biggest jewelry brands of the sector, what do you see on today’s luxury world?
In today’s luxury world, I see a dynamic landscape where timeless craftsmanship and innovation intersect. The demand for exclusivity and personalization is driving brands to create unique, meaningful experiences for clients. Sustainability and ethical practices are gaining prominence, shaping consumer preferences. Rapid digitalization has transformed how we engage with clients and tell our brand stories. Overall, the luxury sector is defined by a delicate balance between heritage and creativity relevance.
No doubt that Bulgari is one of the first brands when it comes to jewelry watches. How do you evaluate the female side of high watchmaking?
Bulgari undeniably stands out as a premier brand in the realm of jewelry watches. When assessing the feminine aspect of high watchmaking, Bulgari’s expertise shines through its visionnary designs, exquisite craftsmanship, and audacious colors combinations. The brand seamlessly combines horological excellence with artistic intricacy, like our Picolissimo movement, the world’s smallest mechanical movement, which can be subtly and discreetly lodged in the head of our Serpenti creations, enchanting the discerning tastes of women who appreciate both exquisite timekeeping and unique aesthetic Italian brilliance.
Furthermore, there are changes in the industry depending on demographics. It is obvious that Gen Z and Millennials have different habits like sustainability, secondhand watches etc. What is your opinion about the effect of young generation on luxury and high watchmaking industry?
The evolving preferences of Generation Z and Millennials are undeniably influencing the luxury and high watchmaking industry. Their emphasis on interest in heritage and authentic storytelling allow brands to respect and highlight their heritage while being very creative at the same time. It’s always a very subtle balance that a brand needs to master. For Bulgari, with its 140 years of history and audacious creativity, this balance has always been part of our DNA. This undoubtedly explains the brand’s great success with the younger generation.
What to expect Bulgari from 2024?
Based on its history of innovation and creativity, Bulgari will continue globally expending our Italian Art of Living around the world, pushing boundaries in both jewelry and watchmaking – and in particular with our iconic Serpenti collection, symbol of the forever metamorphosis analogy. Celebrating 140 years of history magnificently opens the doors to explore the next 140 years in front of us. We never cease to nurture a spirit of sharing a part of our success to do good around us, and it’s in this sense that we are very committed to child protection, notably with Save The Children. Without children, there is no future. We want to play a significant role in making a difference.
