Latest news with #Breitling
Economic Times
a day ago
- Business
- Economic Times
For Breitling, the good times continue in India
ET Online Pradeep Bhanot, managing director of luxury Swiss watch brand Breitling in India New Delhi: This year may not be as bright a year for the luxury market globally as 2024, but India could be an exception, said Pradeep Bhanot, managing director of luxury Swiss watch brand Breitling in India. '2024 was a very promising year for us. We grew at a rate of about 40% plus (in India). This year has started off on a very good note too. In both volume and value, we are at a good, double-digit healthy number,' Bhanot told ET. 'We are growing at a rate which is a little higher than the Swiss watch imports into India, and we are confident that this trend will continue.' Bhanot said a lot of economists had predicted the first half of this year to be slower than the second.'Because of geopolitical developments, luxury consumers seem to be cautious about spends globally. But India is a very resilient country and we are hoping things will pick up further from September with the festive season and the weddings,' he said. 'The Indian community must be the biggest spender on weddings globally, and Indians will continue to spend in the second half of the year as well.' Swiss watch exports to India rose to 128.3 million Swiss francs between January and June this year, up 12.7% over 2024, as per data released by the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry. In contrast, shipments to Japan, China, Hong Kong and Singapore fell 3.2%, 18.7%, 13.3% and 3.7%. To be sure, India's robust growth came on a much smaller base than the other markets. Breitling is among the top three luxury watch brands in the country, in segments priced at Rs 4 lakh and above. The brand is available at five single-brand stores and 26 multi-brand outlets.'In the next three years, we are looking at 40 points of sale, which includes our single-brand boutiques as well as multi-brand stores,' Bhanot the going seems to be good for the brand, high duties and lack of quality infrastructure seem to be limiting the growth of the luxury sector in the country, said Bhanot.'Lack of retail space for luxury brands is a major challenge. We can count the number of luxury malls in the country on our fingers,' he said, adding that the duties are also very high.'The customs duty is 22%. Thankfully, with the new trade and economic partnership agreement between India and Switzerland we should see some reduction of customs duty,' he expects India's young demographics and entrepreneurs to drive growth for the country.'The only common denominator between India and China is the population. In terms of infrastructure development and spending patterns, China is a very different country,' he said.'But brands are realising that India is a young country. Look at the number of young CEOs and entrepreneurs we have. That itself will drive a lot of confidence in the market,' he said.
Time of India
a day ago
- Business
- Time of India
For Breitling, the good times continue in India
Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel New Delhi: This year may not be as bright a year for the luxury market globally as 2024, but India could be an exception, said Pradeep Bhanot, managing director of luxury Swiss watch brand Breitling in India.'2024 was a very promising year for us. We grew at a rate of about 40% plus (in India). This year has started off on a very good note too. In both volume and value, we are at a good, double-digit healthy number,' Bhanot told ET. 'We are growing at a rate which is a little higher than the Swiss watch imports into India, and we are confident that this trend will continue.'Bhanot said a lot of economists had predicted the first half of this year to be slower than the second.'Because of geopolitical developments, luxury consumers seem to be cautious about spends globally. But India is a very resilient country and we are hoping things will pick up further from September with the festive season and the weddings,' he said. 'The Indian community must be the biggest spender on weddings globally, and Indians will continue to spend in the second half of the year as well.'Swiss watch exports to India rose to 128.3 million Swiss francs between January and June this year, up 12.7% over 2024, as per data released by the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry. In contrast, shipments to Japan, China Hong Kong and Singapore fell 3.2%, 18.7%, 13.3% and 3.7%. To be sure, India's robust growth came on a much smaller base than the other is among the top three luxury watch brands in the country, in segments priced at Rs 4 lakh and above. The brand is available at five single-brand stores and 26 multi-brand outlets.'In the next three years, we are looking at 40 points of sale, which includes our single-brand boutiques as well as multi-brand stores ,' Bhanot the going seems to be good for the brand, high duties and lack of quality infrastructure seem to be limiting the growth of the luxury sector in the country, said Bhanot.'Lack of retail space for luxury brands is a major challenge. We can count the number of luxury malls in the country on our fingers,' he said, adding that the duties are also very high.'The customs duty is 22%. Thankfully, with the new trade and economic partnership agreement between India and Switzerland we should see some reduction of customs duty,' he expects India's young demographics and entrepreneurs to drive growth for the country.'The only common denominator between India and China is the population. In terms of infrastructure development and spending patterns, China is a very different country,' he said.'But brands are realising that India is a young country. Look at the number of young CEOs and entrepreneurs we have. That itself will drive a lot of confidence in the market,' he said.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
International Buyers Spent $56 Billion on U.S. Real Estate in the Past Year: Report
The global spotlight is shining brighter than ever on U.S. real estate, as international buyers return in force with wallets wide open. After several years of pandemic-related uncertainty and shifting economic tides worldwide, buyers from abroad are diving back into the market—and they're spending like never before. In the past year alone, foreign investors snapped up a record $56 billion worth of American homes, marking a 33 percent increase over the previous year and one of the most significant surges in recent history. More from Robb Report Baglietto Just Launched a Beautiful Blue Superyacht Breitling and Soccer Star Erling Haaland Teamed up on a Limited-Edition Watch Collection Jefferson's Just Brought Back One of Its Best Bourbons Global buyers are making bold moves coast to coast, nabbing everything from sprawling beachfront estates in Florida to sleek urban condos in California's most desirable neighborhoods. According to the National Association of Realtors' 2025 International Transactions in U.S. Residential Real Estate report, these investors purchased 78,100 properties between April 2024 and March 2025—a 44 percent jump from the year before. Meanwhile, the median purchase price hit a record $494,400, underscoring the strong demand for upscale homes. RELATED: High-End Real Estate Is on a Hot Streak in Prime U.S. Markets, New Reports Say Florida remains the crown jewel, drawing more than one in five international buyers. The state's sun-soaked lifestyle, favorable tax policies, and an unmatched inventory of luxury properties—from oceanfront mansions to golf-course retreats—make it a perennial favorite. California follows closely behind, along with Texas, New York, and Arizona, which round out the top five destinations for foreign buyers. Notably, nearly half of these international buyers paid cash, compared to just 28 percent of domestic buyers. High prices and elevated mortgage rates have pushed many to come prepared with substantial funds on hand, particularly when eyeing premium properties. So, who's doing all the purchasing? Chinese buyers led the way, spending $13.7 billion on nearly 12,000 homes. They're followed by buyers from Canada, Mexico, India, and the U.K. Just over half of these buyers already live in the U.S.—recent immigrants or visa holders—while the rest are purchasing from abroad. Some are looking to settle down, others are investing in vacation homes or rental properties. RELATED: Luxury Home Sales Are Skyrocketing Thanks to All-Cash Buyers The reasons behind this buying frenzy are clear. For starters, the U.S. is seen as a safe bet. Property rights are strong, the housing market is diverse, and the overall economy remains relatively stable, especially compared to some international markets. And while some buyers are chasing the dream of a sunny second home, others see it as a smart place to store their money. Bottom line: the world's wealthiest are still putting their cash into American real estate, and luxury markets are feeling the boost. For sellers, brokers, and developers, this global demand is shaping the high-end housing landscape in a big way. Best of Robb Report The 10 Priciest Neighborhoods in America (And How They Got to Be That Way) In Pictures: Most Expensive Properties Click here to read the full article.
Hypebeast
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hypebeast
Erling Haaland x Breitling's New Chronomat Watches Feature Dials Cut From Ancient Meteorite
Summary Breitlinghas unveiled a new collaboration with Manchester City strikerErling Haaland, introducing two limited-editionChronomattimepieces that fuse cosmic materials with athletic precision. The collection features two main limited-edition models. The Chronomat Automatic GMT 40 is presented in stainless steel with a platinum bezel, limited to 500 pieces. The Chronomat B01 42, on the other hand, ramps up the luxury appeal with an 18k red gold case and is limited to just 250 examples. Both models feature dials crafted from Muonionalusta meteorite — an ancient astral material formed over 4.5 billion years ago. Each dial is uniquely patterned, making every watch one of a kind. Haaland was deeply involved in the design process, from selecting the Chronomat as the base model to choosing the cosmic dial and case metals. He stated, 'I wanted something one of a kind. The Chronomat just clicked. It's clean, all metal, or with a rubber strap — it lets you go bold with the dial. The meteorite makes each one different. You're never going to see the same watch on someone else's wrist.' Breitling CEO Georges Kern emphasized the perfect synergy between Haaland's playing style and the watch's material, remarking, 'Erling plays like he's from another planet, so when we talked about materials, a meteorite dial was the perfect fit. It's a watch as powerful and singular as he is.' The Chronomat Automatic GMT 40 Erling Haaland features a meteorite dial set in a stainless-steel case with a platinum bezel, accented by a red-gold GMT hand and Haaland's initials on the central seconds hand. The caseback is engraved with 'ONE OF 500' and 'ERLING HAALAND 9' surrounding a silhouette of Haaland in his signature goal-celebration pose. This model offers a choice between a classic steel rouleaux bracelet or a black rouleaux-style rubber strap. The Chronomat B01 42 Erling Haaland elevates the design with an 18k red gold case, meteorite dial and black chronograph subdials. Inside, the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01, offering a 70-hour power reserve, is visible through a sapphire-crystal caseback engraved with 'ONE OF 250' and Haaland's number 9. It also includes Haaland's initials on the central chronograph seconds hand and is offered on either black rubber or 18k red-gold rouleaux. Completing the collection is a third, ultra-rare 'ONE OF 5' edition, exclusively crafted for Haaland and his closest circle, making this a deeply personal project for the athlete. Boasting an 18k red gold case with a meteorite dial, this edition sports a transparent caseback that offers a peek into the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01 movement inside. It features bespoke case-side engraving of his name and jersey number, along with an image of Haaland in his goal-celebration pose on the caseback. All models come in a wooden box, completed with a signed thank-you note from Haaland, underscoring the personal nature of the collaboration. 'There are several details on the watch that I like very much,' Haaland tells Hypebeast, 'aside from the uniqueness of the dial, my eyes sparkled the moment I saw my initials on the seconds hand,' – a detail that only ownsers of the timepiece can truly savor and appreciate. For more information regarding Breitling's new limited-edition collaboration with Erling Haaland, visit the brand's officialwebsite.
The Star
14-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Breitling pays tribute to Hawaiian surf culture with updated Superocean Heritage
The Superocean Heritage is no ordinary sea watch. It never was. When Breitling first launched it in 1957, it took a different tack from other dive watches of the era. The Ref. 1004 (a sleek time-only piece) and Ref. 807 (the world's first dedicated dive chronograph) weren't just about exploring the underwater world – they were about looking good doing it. The spear-and-arrow hands, ceramic rotating bezel and naturally sleek proportions made it a favourite of stylish adventurers who lived for the sea and the scene. Today, that philosophy is still at the core of the Superocean Heritage. It has the soul of the 1950s, but designed for today. Breitling CEO Georges Kern sums it up: 'The Superocean Heritage is our most elegant sea watch, and this update is all about refinement. Breitling Superocean Heritage Automatic 36. 'Every detail has been perfected, but the spirit stays the same. It's about style at sea.' This refresh takes everything that has made the Superocean Heritage distinctive and makes it even sharper. The collection includes a 42mm chronograph, powered by the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01, the brand's industry-leading timekeeping movement. The automatic models, in 44mm, 42mm and 40mm, introduce the B31 movement, Breitling's first exclusive three-hand manufacture calibre launched in March. A further 36mm houses the Calibre 10 automatic movement. The collection's colour palette has been streamlined to a core of black, blue and green, paired with a matching ceramic-inlaid bezel for next-level scratch resistance that will keep the watch looking new long into the future. Thinner, more integrated mesh-metal and mesh-rubber bracelets ensure a watertight fit against the case, complete with folding clasps for a seamless finish. Other refinements enhance symmetry and proportion. Tone-on-tone subdials and a subtle date aperture at six o'clock create a balanced composition, while distinct hands – an arrow for hours, a spear for minutes – and pointed indexes maintain the at-a-glance readability that made the mid-century original essential for divers. Select models introduce responsibly-sourced 18k red-gold to the outer bezels, adding lustre while preserving the collection's sleek aesthetic. Breitling Superocean Heritage B31 Automatic 44. The versatile lineup also includes new 36mm and 40mm sizes, designed for those who prefer a trimmer diameter suited to a wide variety of wrists. The launch campaign brings the spirit of the new Superocean Heritage to life in full colour – drawing on the sights, sounds and surf culture of Hawaii. With its modern-retro flair, it channels the lush foliage, saturated tones and sunlit energy that define the 'Aloha State'. Kelly Slater limited edition For professional surfer Kelly Slater, Hawaii used to be the dream. Now it's home. With 11 world titles, 56 event wins and three decades spent redefining the sport, Slater has gone beyond being a champion. He's a force of nature. As he steps away from professional competition, Breitling is celebrating his extraordinary career with the Superocean Heritage B31 Automatic 40 Kelly Slater, a limited-edition watch infused with the Hawaiian surf culture that shaped him. Back view of the Breitling Superocean Heritage B01 Chronograph 42. 'From as early as I can remember, I dreamt of travelling to and living in Hawaii,' says Slater. 'It was this far-off land of amazing waves, perfect weather and the ultimate surfing lifestyle. 'After living here, I realised it's much bigger than that. 'The people, the community, the nature, all so intertwined. 'The respect Hawaiians have for their land, people and culture runs deep. 'It makes Hawaii even more special than what I dreamt of when I was a kid. And now I call it home,' Slater adds. The dial features a foliage pattern, inspired by the light and shadows of a tropical canopy. Close up of the Breitling Superocean Heritage B01 Chronograph 42. The caseback is open, revealing the B31 movement, while its outer ring is engraved with 'One of 500' and 'Kelly Slater Limited Edition'. Available on a blue rubber mesh strap or stainless-steel mesh bracelet, the watch comes in a special presentation box featuring the same Hawaiian floral motif and includes a personal note from Slater himself. 'Breitling has been with me for years,' says Slater. 'This watch reflects everything I love – the ocean, nature and the easy-going style I've always connected with,' he says. Breitling is also rolling out a sunglasses collaboration with Cutler and Gross.
