In this new episode of the Luxury Podcast, I had the pleasure of welcoming Frédéric Bondoux, President Europe of Grand Seiko, a Japanese watchmaking house, established in Europe since 2010. Together, we dive into a Japanese universe of the House, where extreme precision meets the craftsmanship of the Takumi, and where this brand, domestically focused for more than 60 years, opens up to the world with a clear vision: to remain true to its Japanese DNA while speaking the language of European markets.

Frédéric's journey: from Omega to Longines, he is now at the helm of Grand Seiko in Europe

Originally from Burgundy, Frédéric entered the watchmaking industry at Omega in the late 90s, first focusing on Europe and then on Asia, during a time marked by the power of its ambassadors (James Bond, Cindy Crawford) and the boom in retail in China. He then took the lead of Omega France for nearly fifteen years, restructuring the distribution, opening flagship stores and enhancing the brand image. After a stint at the helm of Longines, where he strengthens the positioning and initiates e-commerce, he is captivated by the origins of Grand Seiko and takes on a rare challenge: starting from a "blank slate" to build Grand Seiko in Europe.

Under his leadership, the brand expands from 8 to 25 countries covered in Europe, opens a magnificent store at Place Vendôme designed by Kengo Kuma, and establishes a product and image strategy coherent with European codes while celebrating the Japanese soul.

What you will discover in this episode

• From 50 years of domestic to international opening : how a house born in 1960 and long reserved for Japan structured itself for Europe, with dedicated subsidiaries and selective distribution.

• Culture at the service of strategy : Adapting experience without betraying the DNA. Innovation and excellence with the Spring Drive movement, Japanese craftsmanship of the Takumi…

• The Takumi and the “invisible quality” : handmade angles, dials, case backs — a respect for art and the customer that is visible… even in what is not visible.

• The role of flagships : why the store Place Vendôme is unique, and how it acts as the European keystone.

• Retail, wholesale, franchises : what strategy to adopt for Grand Seiko, and how to remain readable in the long term.

• Frédéric's vision of luxury : rarity as a resource, and transmission as a cardinal value.

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