Cover Catherine Rénier (Photo: Courtesy of Jaeger-LeCoultre)
Catherine Rénier (Photo: Courtesy of Jaeger-LeCoultre)
1 / 1
Taking us back to where her own fascination with watchmaking began, Catherine Rénier offers a glimpse of where Jaeger-LeCoultre is headed while honouring its roots
Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Precision Atelier, a multi-sensory presentation done in partnership with chef Himanshu Saini of Dubai's one Michelin-starred restaurant Trèsind Studio, was quite the hit at Watches and Wonders 2024. This powerful homage to talent, craft and passion, as is true for the brand’s entire ‘Made of Makers’ series of exclusive artistic collaborations and breadth of immersive experiences, speaks of the exciting developments spearheaded by outgoing CEO Catherine Rénier.
Rénier, who joined Jaeger-LeCoultre in 2018 from the high jewellery world, says that her interest in timepieces began with a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and heritage. Her first mechanical watch, a birthday gift, solidified this connection to watchmaking, highlighting for her the emotional bond that one creates with each exquisite make. In this conversation with Tatler, she recalls what captivated her about the brand, what they’re doing in Southeast Asia, and what her personal thoughts are on collecting luxury timepieces.
What made you interested in the watchmaking industry?
Starting my career in high jewellery, I developed a respect for artisans and their meticulous work. Jaeger-LeCoultre captivated me because it embodies these values perfectly, with every component crafted in a fully-integrated manufacture, over 190 years of heritage, and with 180 crafts brought together under one roof.
At Jaeger-LeCoultre, we strive to make our watches integral to our clients’ lives, marking important moments and creating lasting memories. This blend of emotion, craftsmanship, and heritage continues to inspire me every day.
Jaeger-LeCoultre recently tapped Roy Wang, an acclaimed light-painter, for a new campaign that highlights precision, technology, and the craftsmanship behind watchmaking. Can you tell us more about this campaign?
At Jaeger-LeCoultre, we view the relationship between light-painting and traditional watchmaking as a natural alignment of precision, innovation, and artistic expression. Roy Wang’s light-painting art, with its dynamic canvas that allows for real-time experimentation and improvisation, vividly showcases how we, at Jaeger-LeCoultre, push the boundaries of our crafts. His use of light, both as medium and message, mirrors the precise and meticulous nature of watchmaking, where every minute detail contributes to the overall masterpiece.
We chose to collaborate with Roy Wang because his unique approach and relentless pursuit of artistic innovation perfectly align with the pioneering spirit of our Maison. His contemporary style and innovative use of technology bridge traditional craftsmanship with modern artistry, resonating with new generations and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of our creations.
What do you want your clients to take out of these stop-motion videos and photographs?
Through the stop-motion video and photographs created by light-painting artist Roy Wang, we want our clients and the general public to appreciate the fusion of art and craftsmanship that defines Jaeger-LeCoultre. These works and the intricate process of how they were made highlight our commitment to innovation and tradition, showcasing meticulous precision and creative excellence. We hope they inspire a deeper connection to our Maison’s heritage and our continuous pursuit of artistry and technical mastery.
Let’s talk about Watches & Wonders, where you commissioned stellar personalities like Chef Himanshu Saini. How was the Precision Atelier received by the event visitors, and are there any highlights from the partnership that you would like to share?
[It] was very well received by visitors. This unique gastronomic experience beautifully showcased the synergy between watchmaking and culinary arts. Visitors were captivated by Chef Himanshu Saini’s modernist approach, which mirrors the precision and creativity inherent in our timepieces.
The main highlight was his menu of four experiential bites, which creatively combined flavours from his Indian roots with ingredients from the Vallée de Joux. This collaboration not only emphasised the shared values of precision and artistry but also provided an immersive and memorable experience that deepened the appreciation for Jaeger-LeCoultre’s craftsmanship.
See also: Watches and Wonders 2024: The editors pick their favourite watches
The new Duometre models celebrate Jaeger-LeCoultre’s passion for mechanical watchmaking. What’s fascinating about it?
The Duometre mechanism, introduced in 2007, ensures exceptional accuracy by separating the power supply from the escapement. The 2024 Duometre models feature a new case design inspired by 19th-century savonette pocket watches, with rounded contours that are both tactile and visually appealing. This design evolution is guided by our historical creations and artisan feedback.
The Duometre Chronograph Moon offers precise timekeeping to 1/6th of a second and a moon phase display. The Duometre Heliotourbillon Perpetual highlights a three-axis tourbillon, a perpetual calendar with a grande date and yet another new patent on the leap year indication. The Duometre Quantieme Lunaire features a striking blue dial, a steel case and a moon phase complication. Our fully integrated manufacture, with 180 crafts under one roof, allows seamless collaboration, ensuring each timepiece benefits from collective expertise. These models truly exemplify our dedication to craftsmanship and innovation.
What are your observations on the luxury watch market in the post-pandemic period?
The watchmaking industry is undergoing a dynamic shift driven by evolving consumer preferences and a renewed focus on craftsmanship and heritage. Today, we find ourselves in an era where craftsmanship and technology seamlessly coexist. The watch, as an object, holds significance in its technical intricacies, artisanal excellence, and rich heritage. I am confident that in the foreseeable future, these aspects will continue to captivate our customers. Our commitment is evident in the creation of exceptional timepieces like the Reverso—an iconic piece that transcends eras, embodying our dedication to both legacy and modern advancements.
What is the key focus for Jaeger-LeCoultre in the coming years?
As we progress, we maintain our commitment to preserving our craftsmanship, fostering innovation and cultivating the next generation of watchmakers, which is central to our Maison’s ethos and future growth.
The future of watchmaking lies in the hands of the next generation of watchmakers and artisans. We aim to nurture this talent through comprehensive apprenticeship programmes, partnerships and internal training initiatives. By sharing our knowledge and passion, we ensure that the art of fine watchmaking is carried forward with the same dedication and excellence.
I also believe that our Maison’s identity extends beyond the creation of exquisite timepieces. It is also about crafting unique experiences that resonate deeply with our clientele, embodying the values of heritage, innovation and artistry that Jaeger-LeCoultre stands for. We plan to continue to innovate in creating immersive experiences through our Atelier d’Antoine Discovery Workshops in certain boutiques, travelling watchmaking exhibitions and ‘Made of Makers’ programme. We aim to share a narrative that resonates emotionally with our customers, the general public and new audiences, reflecting the soul and spirit of Jaeger-LeCoultre.
What do you think the Southeast Asian sector looks for in a luxury watch nowadays?
Jaeger-LeCoultre is on an exciting journey in the Southeast Asian region, where the public increasingly seeks luxury watches that combine technical excellence with unique design and heritage. We cater to these needs by offering timepieces and watchmaking exhibitions or experiences that embody our commitment to precision, creativity and tradition. Last year, we hosted two experiences in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. We are always seeking to enhance in-store experiences, and so, in 2023, we also had the pleasure of renovating and re-opening our boutiques at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, and in Siam Paragon, Bangkok, offering a concept that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the world of fine watchmaking. The Southeast Asian market holds a special place in our journey; as we continue to explore and innovate, we are committed to sharing more captivating moments with its dynamic community.
Read more: 7 must-visit travel destinations for luxury watch enthusiasts, from Hong Kong to Geneva
Above Catherine Rénier at Watches & Wonders 2024 (Photo: Courtesy of Jaeger-LeCoultre)
Catherine Rénier at Watches & Wonders 2024 (Photo: Courtesy of Jaeger-LeCoultre)
1 / 1
Do you buy watches for style or investment? What are your personal thoughts about watch collecting?
I believe that the ownership and enjoyment of luxury watches go far beyond style or investment. Exquisite timepieces crafted by Jaeger-LeCoultre offer more than material value; they represent a long-lasting memory or feeling, a connection to heritage and craftsmanship and an appreciation for the finer aspects of life. I view watch collecting as a deeply personal journey. Beyond their functionality, luxury watches become symbols of personal achievement, milestones or cherished heirlooms. They carry the power to create lasting memories, encapsulating the essence of life. Each timepiece is a testament to the artistry and precision that define Jaeger-LeCoultre, making them not just investments, but treasures that resonate with emotional significance and timeless beauty.
Which Jaeger-LeCoultre would you call your favourite?
My absolute go-to is, without a doubt, the Reverso Tribute Burgundy. I have worn it daily since 2018, the year I joined Jaeger-LeCoultre as CEO, and it holds significant personal meaning for me. This was among the first models I introduced to the public, marking a pivotal chapter in my life. The watch's elegance, its unique burgundy colour and the iconic Reverso design align perfectly with my personal style and interests. Recently, I added a more personal touch by engraving my initials using the Alex Trochut Art Deco exclusive alphabet, which has made it even more symbolic and cherished.
NOW READ
7 new chronographs for an active lifestyle
Topics
