Description

In this first episode of The Luxury Society podcast Season 2, hosts Robin Swithinbank and David Sadigh are joined by Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling, to discuss tariffs, transformation and the bold bets shaping the future of Swiss watchmaking.

Kern reflects on his six years at the helm of Breitling, the challenges facing the luxury watch industry, and why agility, partnerships and brand positioning matter more than ever in today’s volatile market.

Tune in for a candid conversation on:

• How Trump’s 39% tariffs are reshaping the Swiss watch industry
• Why Breitling is betting big on the NFL – and what it says about luxury sponsorships
• Geneva Watch Days vs. Watches & Wonders: where should brands really show up?
• The rebirth of Universal Genève and Gallet – and Breitling’s move into new price points
• Gray markets, pre-owned growth, and whether tariffs could trigger a distribution shake-up
• How to thrive when the luxury market faces a “perfect storm”

🎧 Plus: Georges Kern on why in luxury, purchases aren’t cancelled – only postponed.

Brought to you by https://digitalluxurygroup.com/ 

Follow us @digitalluxurygroup & @robin_swithinbank on Instagram

Produced by Juliet Fallowfield, 2025 www.fallowfieldmason.com