Chanel enters MB&F watch capital

Chanel is clearly passionate about the passage of time. We could even say that there is a real watchmaking group at the house on rue Cambon. The legendary French brand founded its own watchmaking atelier in 1987 and acquired G&F Châtelain Manufacture in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, in 1993.A studio under the patronage of Arnaud Chastaingtdeploying its treasures of creativity and technical prowess. Chanel Horlogerie also took a stake in Bell & Ross in 1998 and increased its stake in 2000. It has also invested in high-end watch brands such as Romain Gauthier (2011) and FP Journe (2018), which it subsequently invested in. Kenissi’s factory in Le Locle has created a true ecosystem of experts, composed of watchmakers and high-end component suppliers. All of which remain independently managed, Chanel is obliged.

This time, Chanel announced that it will acquire a 25% stake in the independent high-end watch brand MB&F. A real watchmaking UFO, atypical and dreamy, a watchmaking concept laboratory combined with artistic activities, a creative micro-engineering laboratory dedicated to the design and manufacture of small series of concept watches. MB&F watchmaking experts – artists, watchmakers, designers, manufacturers – are headquartered in Geneva, creating innovative and avant-garde designs in a stunning mansion. “Its acclaimed watches continue to follow the vision of founder Maximilian Büsser, who deconstructed traditional watchmaking techniques to create 3D kinetic art. The two houses explained this in a joint press release. This strategic investment demonstrates Chanel’s desire to continue to develop and invest in the future of high-end watchmaking technology, creation and design. It follows a long-term strategy to work with luxury experts to preserve and develop this “know-how”.

“We are delighted to sign a strategic partnership with MB&F, a company that shares the same values ​​of independence, creativity and excellence.Frédéric Grangié, President of Chanel Watches and Jewellery, explains. This announcement is part of our long-term strategy to continue to preserve, develop and invest in expertise and know-how, reaffirming our position in high-end watchmaking.”

In 2023, MB&F achieved a turnover of €47.86 million with more than 20 movements and 419 exceptional watches produced by Horological Machines and Legacy Machines. In 2021, it also launched a more approachable parallel brand, MADEditions, which currently produces around 3,500 pieces per year. Founder Maximilian Büsser retains the majority of MB&F shares (60%), while his partner Serge Kriknoff holds 15%. Max Büsser will continue to lead the creation and overall management of the brand. “ In the current favorable environment, with the management team in top shape, we have a responsibility to take this significant step to secure our long-term future.e, he believed. This is a natural evolution for a company that will celebrate its 20th anniversary next year. Chanel’s investment will not only allow us to continue to pursue our own path independently and without the pressure of growth, but will also strengthen our operations by providing access to a wider ecosystem and network of specialized suppliers when needed. »