Breakfast at Tiffany's & Swatch |
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| Monday, 10 December 2007 | |
Tiffany & Co and Swatch Group Ltd. announced a strategic alliance to further the development, production and worldwide distribution of Tiffany & Co brand watches. Michael J. Kowalski, chairman and chief executive officer of Tiffany & Co saw the opportunity when discussing a
potential collaboration with Nick Hayek Jr. of Swatch Group about a year ago. According to Kowalski: “Swatch Group is the best conceivable strategic partner for Tiffany’s long-planned re-entry into watch distribution. It is the leader in the high-end watch business with unparalleled distribution capabilities and experience in the luxury segment of the watch business.”
The distribution of Tiffany & Co will go through the Swatch’s distribution network and Tiffany Stores. In addiction, Swatch affiliates will have the right to establish and operate in markets outside the US. Image: Business Week |

Tiffany & Co and Swatch Group Ltd. announced a strategic alliance to further the development, production and worldwide distribution of Tiffany & Co brand watches. Michael J. Kowalski, chairman and chief executive officer of Tiffany & Co saw the opportunity when discussing a
potential collaboration with Nick Hayek Jr. of Swatch Group about a year ago. According to Kowalski: “Swatch Group is the best conceivable strategic partner for Tiffany’s long-planned re-entry into watch distribution. It is the leader in the high-end watch business with unparalleled distribution capabilities and experience in the luxury segment of the watch business.”
The two companies will collaborate on design, engineering, manufacturing, marketing, distribution and service. Under the agreement, with an initial term of arrangement of 20 years, Swatch will incorporate a new watch-making company in Switzerland. The new company will be authorized to use Tiffany’s trademarks and operate under the Tiffany name. 