Chanel invests in Kross Manufacture and strengthens its presence in watchmaking
Chanel signs a new strategic move in haute horlogerie. Chanel is taking part in the development of Kross Studio, a Swiss manufacture renowned for its exceptional timepieces and mechanical objets d’art. In this way, Chanel and Kross are aligning creation, know-how and industrial ambitions.
Why this investment is a game-changer
Chanel’s acquisition of a stake in Kross Studio sends a clear signal to the market. The brand is supporting an agile player, focused on singular complications and creative collaborations. What’s more, the deal strengthens a network of partners capable of delivering very limited series. In short, the logic is as much artistic as industrial.
This participation is part of a trend already visible at the House. Chanel relies on targeted alliances to secure rare know-how and cutting-edge production capacities. In this way, the independent manufacture retains its identity, while gaining in stability. The expected result is an increase in quality and output for demanding projects.
For collectors, this anchorage brings visibility and guarantees. For the independent sector, it means strong support, without sacrificing creativity. As a result, the
“Well-thought-out equity investment can protect independence while accelerating excellence.”
Kross Studio, a workshop of ideas and mechanics
Kross Studio has made a name for itself with its sculptural complications and narrative timepieces. The technical coherence remains strong, from design to finishing, with advanced integration. The Manufacture also takes a project-by-project approach, with great formal freedom. Chanel has found a partner capable of turning ambitious concepts into reality, quickly and cleanly.
Kross Studio – KS 05 Titanium Agate Mousse. Mousse agate dial, 45 mm grade 5 titanium case and retail price of CHF 98,000.
- Combining independent creativity with the solidity of a strategic investor
- Maintaining the company’s identity and product governance
- Increased access to resources for greater reliability and service
- Uncompromising ability to produce limited series and one-off pieces
- Expected positive impact on the long-term value of collections
Implications for the watch market
The capital gesture validates the relevance of highly specialized independent houses. In this way, the ecosystem gains in diversity, with differentiated development paths. Chanel shows that a major brand can support agile formats, without standardizing expression. What’s more, this dynamic is pulling the métiers d’art and micro-mechanics chain upwards.
Kross Studio – KS 06 Chronopassion. Turquoise stone dial, finely engraved silver bezel and 42 mm grade 5 titanium case.
For retailers, the collaboration reinforces the importance of presenting pieces with character. As a result, customer experiences can gain in technical content and storytelling. As a result, selective retailing is finding a new lease of life in projects with high usage value. Chanel sees this as fertile ground for building loyalty and educating the passionate public.
Product innovation, the link
Kross Studio – Tourbillon Central Flottant Drogon. Calibre KS 7’005, 45 mm grade 5 titanium case engraved and treated with black DLC, unique piece.
The logic of innovation serves not only differentiation, but also technical sustainability. Thus, in-house developments benefit future series, with robust validations. Chanel can encourage this virtuous cycle by structuring the key stages of the project. In short, the tandem values measurable excellence over rhetoric.
What this means for collectors
Kross Studio – Tourbillon Central Flottant Meraxes. Part of the KS 05 collection, limited series of 1, with an advertised price of CHF 108,000.
Fans expect strong creations, delivered on time and well served. Also, Chanel’s backing can provide reassurance on parts, maintenance and lead times. As a result, the secondary market may revalue certain references, depending on traction. Chanel is taking a clear position in terms of quality of execution and follow-up.
Kross Studio – Batmobile Tim Burton table clock. Luxury clock with 30-day movement, 512 components, price around CHF 30,000.
Chanel’s signal goes beyond finance, as it affects product culture. The independent atelier retains control of the details, while the structure is consolidated. What’s more, the creative sector benefits from a showcase that speaks to the general public. Chanel is thus anchoring a partnership designed to last, in the service of a living watchmaking industry.
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