Cyrille Vigneron

The sector is facing double-digit sales declines and a crisis of relevance. ‘A watch has become a cultural object of sophistication… but culture has to constantly reinvent, otherwise it can disappear,’ said former Cartier boss Cyrille Vigneron.

‘Paris will probably be slow,’ said Cartier CEO Cyril Vigneron.

For years, luxury’s biggest jewellers have dismissed synthetic diamonds as inauthentic. But an investment by LVMH’s venture fund in lab-grown diamond company Lusix suggests this calculus may be changing alongside consumer interest in ethical and sustainable products.

International brands, domestic giants and unbranded jewellers are vying for a slice of China’s jewellery market, which is poised for double-digit growth.

Cartier transcends generations, geographies and genders, says the brand’s chief executive Cyrille Vigneron, but staying relevant in the choppy waters of the post-pandemic jewellery market demands iconic, classic designs.

Cartier chief executive Cyrille Vigneron discusses his vision for the world-famous jeweller, starting with the re-opening of its historic New York mansion.

Richemont's co-chief executive officer Bernard Fornas will retire as the jewellery maker is in the midst of a job-cut plan at its top watchmaking brands, including Cartier, Vacheron Constantin and Piaget.

BoF compiles the most important professional moves of the week.