Episode 142: De Beers and Signet Updates, Audemars Piguet’s 150th Anniversary

his year marks the 150th anniversary of Audemars Piguet, and Victoria dives into the state of the Swiss watch industry. Rob notes that the industry has seen some challenges, with exports declining in the last few years. “They fell by about 16% in 2020 and maybe 10% in 2021,” Rob says. Part of this decline could be due to the exchange rate and declining tourism.
Victoria points out that luxury is a cyclical business, and the Swiss watch industry has always experienced ups and downs. The industry is heavily dependent on trends, consumer demand, and economic conditions. Audemars Piguet holds a special place within the Swiss watchmaking tradition, known for its innovation, craftsmanship, and timeless designs. Despite the challenges faced by the industry, Audemars Piguet has managed to remain relevant and influential in the luxury watch market.
In conclusion, this week’s episode of The Jewelry District podcast covered a range of topics from the Tucson gem shows to major developments in the diamond industry concerning De Beers and Signet. The discussions shed light on the current state of the jewelry and watch industries, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities facing key players in the market. As the industry continues to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences and global economic conditions, it will be interesting to see how companies like Audemars Piguet, De Beers, and Signet navigate these changes and continue to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of the luxury goods market. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from The Jewelry District podcast as they continue to explore the latest news and trends in the jewelry and watch industries.