PROFILES

You set the standard in the Haute Horlogerie world with Zegg & Cerlati. How did you become an influential figure in the world of watches?
A bit by chance. I studied management in Lausanne. After an internship at the Hermitage in Monaco, I met my partner, Carlo Cerlati. We wanted to set something up in Monaco. I learnt on the job.

Did you encounter any difficulties as a woman?
For me, it’s never been a problem. The watchmaking world was indeed very masculine at the time, but it’s not anymore. I didn’t encounter any difficulties. On the contrary! It’s a luxury environment, rather pleasant.

How has the market evolved since you started?
The sector has changed a lot, like the Principality. It has developed and modernised. Before, quite a few brands were doing very well. These days, only ten or so do well. I also see younger, trendier brands such as Tudor, Breitling catching on, as well as the more innovative brands.

What are the current trends?
Twenty years ago, it was sports watches. Then there was a trend towards large cases. Today, we are seeing a return to classic watches: slimmer and flatter, retro, vintage-inspired. The 50s and 70s are inspiring—the same goes for fashion and architecture. It’s a fashion statement, of course. But there’s also a practical, easier to wear side. And then, as with all cycles, once you have reached extremes, back you go again.

And what about consumers?
With the Internet, customers are much better informed when they arrive in the store. They’ve done their research. And even if they need advice, they’re much better prepared. In the store, the welcome is still the most important thing. The customer is seeking the sales assistant’s opinion, whether in a mono-brand shop such as our Rolex boutique in Place du Casino or in a multi-brand store where they can compare different models if they have not decided on a brand.

You opened Zegg & Cerlati The One in One Monte-Carlo. How did the season go?
I’m very happy with the results given the circumstances and the fact that we couldn’t do an opening. Our sales were good, even if the international clientele was not present. The locals who stayed put supported us in addition to the European visitors. We took risks, and they paid off. We had good results.

Are you a collector yourself ?
I wasn’t a collector, but I’m becoming one. I like to show my watches. The Breitling I got for my 16th birthday and the Audemars Piguet that marked my 18th birthday. I have a collection of Rolex, Cartier, and a Panerai that I like to wear. Let’s just say that before, I wore watches for business. These days, it’s a passion.

What’s new?
There are new projects in the pipeline for us to grow further. The company is going to see some changes. But I can’t tell you any more about it today...

Zegg & Cerlati
One monte-carlo
Place du Casino
98000 Monaco - Tel +377 99 99 66 21
one@zegg-cerlati.mc - www.zegg-cerlati.com

BREITLING - CARTIER - FRANCK MULLER - GIRARD-PERREGAUX - PANERAI - TUDOR - ULYSSE NARDIN - ZENITH - BIJOUX ZEGG & CERLATI