Zenith plans to eliminate about 200 jobs as it shifts its focus toward high-end watchmaking. The restructuring follows several years of losses and expectations of challenging market conditions. Chief executive Benoit de Clerk announced the changes, according to Swiss newspaper Le Temps.
Why it matters: This suggests Zenith is pursuing a substantial strategic reset rather than a temporary cost reduction, betting on higher-end watchmaking to address sustained losses.
LVMH-owned Zenith plans to reduce its model range and production as it restructures following years of financial losses. Up to half of employees at its Le Locle manufacture could lose their jobs as the brand shifts toward the high-end market.
Why it matters: The potential scale of the job cuts suggests a fundamental reset of Zenith’s manufacturing footprint and commercial strategy, rather than a routine adjustment.
Zenith introduced the new Chronomaster Solo Sport at Saint Peter in Sydney with chef Josh Niland. The exclusive event paired the watch presentation with a five-course dining experience.
The new Hublot Classic Fusion Tributo watches feature a manufacture movement made by Zenith rather than Hublot itself, distinguishing the calibre’s origin from the brand name on the dial.
Zenith marked Cohiba’s 50th anniversary in 2016 with a limited-edition El Primero, following a collaboration conceived the previous year. Javier Terrés, then a manager at Habanos, recalls how Jean-Claude Biver initiated the partnership between the Swiss watchmaker and the Cuban premium cigar brand.
Zenith once supplied movements to Rolex, despite having less widespread name recognition outside watch enthusiasts. Its watchmaking name can also be confused with Zenith Electronics.