Chanel invests in time with 25% stake acquisition in MB&F
Securing the high-end watch brand’s future
Global luxury powerhouse Chanel has acquired a 25% stake in MB&F, ensuring the high-end Swiss watch brand’s stability and long-term growth while maintaining its independence.
The strategic partnership, revealed on August 22, 2024, sees MB&F founder Maximilian Büsser retain the majority share of 60%, with his partner Serge Kriknoff, Head of R&D & Production, holding 15%.
Büsser, Kriknoff, Charris Yadigaroglou, Head of Marketing Communications, and Thibault Verdonckt, Head of Sales, will continue to lead MB&F, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary next year.
Büsser expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating: “It was our responsibility, in today’s very favourable context and with our management team in its prime, to take this significant step to ensure our long-term future.
“Chanel’s investment will allow us to pursue our independent path while gaining access to their extensive network of specialised suppliers,” Büsser added.
$53.26 million turnover in 2023
MB&F, founded in 2005, is known for its innovative approach to horology. It produces a small series of radical concept watches at its iconic manufacture in Geneva, Switzerland. The company reported revenues of $53.26 million in 2023 and crafted 419 watches that year.
Additionally, MB&F launched a more accessible parallel brand, M.A.D.Editions, in 2021, which produces approximately 3,500 pieces annually.
Chanel’s investment stake in MB&F aligns with its long-term strategy of supporting and investing in the future of high-end watchmaking.
Chanel, which ventured into watchmaking in 1987 and acquired the G&F Châtelain Manufacture in Switzerland in 1993, previously invested in renowned watchmakers Romain Gauthier and F.P. Journe to preserve and advance specialised know-how within the high-end watchmaking industry.
Frédéric Grangié, President of Chanel Watches & Fine Jewellery, commented on the partnership: “We are delighted to join forces with MB&F, sharing their values of independence, creativity, and excellence. This partnership is part of our commitment to preserving and developing specialist expertise in high-end watchmaking.”
Chanel, a global leader in luxury goods, continues to invest significantly in R&D and innovation. Founded by Gabrielle Chanel in the early 20th century, the company employs over 36,500 people worldwide and remains committed to exceptional artisanry and creativity across its diverse product range.
The strategic partnership between Chanel and MB&F marks a significant development in the luxury watchmaking sector. As both world-renowned brands move forward, it promises a blend of tradition and innovation.
Featured image: (L-R) MB&F founder Maximilian Büsser and his partner Serge Kriknoff, Head of R&D & Production, now retain 60% and 15% shares of MB&F, respectively, with Chanel holding 25%. Image: MB&F
