Breitling Sold To CVC Capital Partners For Over $870 Million | aBlogtoWatch (2024)

Breitling Sold To CVC Capital Partners For Over $870 Million | aBlogtoWatch (1)

Even in the exceedingly turbulent times that the watch industry has been enduring for nearly two years, it is rare news to seemajor brands exchange hands – and that is why today is a notable day, as ithas just been announced thatBreitling has beensold to CVC Capital Partners for more than 800 million euros – that is about 873 million US dollars or 866 million Swiss francs.

Breitling Sold To CVC Capital Partners For Over $870 Million | aBlogtoWatch (2)

Until this moment, Breitling had been one of only a handful of properlyindependent major brands out there – Chopard and Patek Philippe remain two other family-owned big players in the industry, with every other mammoth brand either owned by one of the big four groups (Swatch Group, LVMH, Richemont, and Kering) or some other major entity, like Rolex and Tudor with the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation. The last big news of this nature was when family-owned Frederique Constant, Alpina, and Atelier de Monacowere purchasedby Citizen Watch Co. last year


Breitling Sold To CVC Capital Partners For Over $870 Million | aBlogtoWatch (3)

Nevertheless, previous majority owner Theodore Schneider will remain with Breitling because, aspart of the CVC Capital Partners deal, he agreed to re-invest for a 20% stake in Breitling. Ironically, it was as recently as May last year that Breitling vice-president Jean-Paul Girardin told Reuters he was confident in Breitling retaining its independence despitespeculation about its future following the 2015 passingof Ernest Schneider who bought the brandin 1979.

Still, soon after that interview, Bloomberg (the breaker of today’s news) had reported in late November last year that Breitling was “on the block” for sale, after having been in the hands of the Schneider family since 1979. Breitling has very much been a family-run company in the sense that Ernest Schneider had been running it from the late ’70s until the early ’90s when his son, Théodore Schneider took over. While Théodore is the (exceedingly rarer) type of the quiet watch CEO who stays out of the limelight, he’s said to be very much taking part in running the business.

Breitling Sold To CVC Capital Partners For Over $870 Million | aBlogtoWatch (4)

Late last year, when the speculation regardingBreitling’s sale sprung, analysts expected the manufacture that employs some 900 people and produces around 150,000 watches annually to fetch between 600 and 900 million Swiss francs (CHF). As of today, we know that Breitling has been acquired for overCHF866 million – with Breitling’s annual sales of about CHF420 million, this might give the company the financial stability it needed to make it through these troubling times and, hopefully, come out stronger once it’s over.

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As for CVC’s official plans with Breitling, Daniel Pindur, Senior Managing Director at CVC says: “Using our network and expertise, CVC will work to make this global, iconic brand even more renowned and help shape the future of one of Switzerland’s last independent watch manufacturers. Specifically, we see significant growth potential for Breitling in both existing and new geographies by driving the digitization of the marketing and distribution channels in the company, helping to enrich the product and customer experience.”

Breitling Sold To CVC Capital Partners For Over $870 Million | aBlogtoWatch (5)

Breitling, who produces some of the quality movements, dials, cases, and bracelets for its watches has tremendous potential and, on a personal note, I am a bit worried to see them become part of a large financial group. Times do change from better to worse and back in the watch industry, there’s nothing new about that, but I do hope that Breitling will stay away from cheapening its brand and its products in chasing higher temporary profits. If you’ve handled a Chronomat or Navitimer lately, you’ll know that Breitling has a long way down the quality food chain, as its movements, cases, bracelets, and dials remain some of the truly solidly built ones at a time when we already see a lot of high-end brands go for cheaper designs and quality of execution.

Breitling Sold To CVC Capital Partners For Over $870 Million | aBlogtoWatch (6)

Challenges ahead of Breitling include fixing the strong discounting and vast grey market as well asgaining more traction in established and new markets through streamlined and more powerful branding and marketing. They produce a huge variety of timepieces from the $2,000 Colt Skyracer with a COSC-certified quartz movement and carbon composite case (hands-on here) through the Bluetooth-connected Bentley Supersports B55 (explained here) and true Breitling classics like the Navitimer 01 (reviewed here), to the bonkers-expensive, $40,000 Superocean Heritage Chronoworks (hands-on here). All this is to say that Breitling stands on a solid foundation of versatile collections, but their awareness and global presence has to be improved – something both parties expect “the network and expertise of CVC” to assist with.

Breitling Sold To CVC Capital Partners For Over $870 Million | aBlogtoWatch (7)

More recent news from Breitling included their producing of chronograph movements for the Tudor Heritage Black Bay Chrono (hands-on here) and them sourcinga base three-hand movement from Tudor in return. This, though not confirmed, implied unused manufacturing capacities at Breitling and a break from industry-wide principle in that they chose not to invest in developing their own base manufacture caliber but rather source one with similar credentials.

The transaction between Breitling and CVC Capital Partners is expected to complete by around June 2017, subject to approval by competition authorities. How longand in what role Théodore Schneider will stay around at Breitling, we are yet to learn. breitling.comSource: Bloomberg, via WatchesBySJX.

Breitling Sold To CVC Capital Partners For Over $870 Million | aBlogtoWatch (2024)

FAQs

How much did CVC pay for Breitling? ›

(Bloomberg) -- Partners Group Holding AG plans to increase its stake in Breitling AG to a majority in a deal that would value the storied Swiss watch maker at more than 4.2 billion Swiss francs ($4.5 billion), according to people familiar with the matter.

Does Breitling hold value? ›

Breitling watches are a luxury item & as such, they come with hefty price tags. However, Breitling watches hold their value well & can be expected to increase over time. They also last for years & years (some models have been around for decades).

When did CVC buy Breitling? ›

Known for its Navitimer chronographs, Breitling was valued at about 800 million francs when CVC purchased a majority stake in 2017 and about 3 billion francs when Partners first invested in 2021.

Who is the new owner of Breitling? ›

On 23rd December 2022, Partners Group, a Swiss investment and private equity firm, took over the majority of the Breitling shares from CVC. Co-founder of Partners Group, Alfred Gantner, is taking over the presidency of Breitling's directorial board.

Is Amazon an authorized Breitling dealer? ›

Of course since Amazon is not a Breitling authorized dealer, I knew I would not receive a Breitling warranty certificate. (This also is why the watch can be purchased for $2800 less than dealer's price.) I was skeptical about buying a Breitling on Amazon, but I am glad I did.

Is Brad Pitt a Breitling ambassador? ›

He is well-known for marrying the well-known actresses Jennifer Aniston and Angelina Jolie. Brad Pitt is an ambassador for Breitling, along with Charlize Theron and Adam Driver.

What kind of person wears a Breitling? ›

Breitling watches traditionally appeal to confident, bold men with a healthy dose of testosterone coursing through their veins. Breitling wearers are successful movers-and-shakers, fighter pilots, and world-class athletes – sometimes all three simultaneously.

Do Breitling watches hold their value like Rolex? ›

If you want a Rolex that truly holds its value, consider a Daytona, Submariner, or GMT-Master. Generally, Breitling timepieces will hold their value over time, but will gradually lose value.

Are Breitling watches considered luxury? ›

Yes, many people consider Breitling watches to be luxury. Breitling is associated with quality workmanship and luxe materials all over the world, and the price of its timepieces at retail reflect that reputation.

What makes Breitling so special? ›

As one of the world's leading manufacturers of luxury watches, Breitling is known for timepieces of exceptional quality and precision. The "Made by Breitling" label implies uncompromising testing, the finest materials and strict quality control. It stands for more than a century of expertise and timeless designs.

What is the most common Breitling? ›

Let's find out as we reveal the 12 most popular Breitling watches for men.
  • Breitling Top Time Deus Chronograph.
  • Breitling Avenger B01 Chronograph 45.
  • Breitling Avenger Automatic 45 Seawolf.
  • Breitling Premier Bo1 Norton.
  • Breitling Superocean Automatic 46.
  • Breitling Endurance Pro.
  • Breitling Chronomat B01 42.
Mar 2, 2023

What is the market cap of Breitling? ›

Market Cap: $945.57 million

Like Franck Muller, Breitling SA is also a Swiss luxury watchmaker. The company is based in Grenchen and was founded in 1884 by Léon Breitling in Saint-Imier, Switzerland in the year 1884.

Is Breitling the same level with Omega? ›

The two companies are among the top 50 Swiss watchmaking companies in the world. However, when it comes to rankings, Omega ranks higher than Breitling. Omega is the seventh most recognized Swiss company in the world and the second most recognizable Swiss watch brand. Omega has 70% global brand recognition.

Is Breitling a respected brand? ›

Since 1884 Breitling has been a watchmaker trusted by explorers and watch connoisseurs alike. Breitling's rich history alongside their incredible craftsmanship has led them to be a part of the upper echelon of fine Swiss watches and synonymous to brands like Rolex, Omega, and IWC.

Is Breitling owned by Bentley? ›

In 2002, Breitling and Bentley Motors began the longest partnership between a watch and automobile manufacturer, crafting the prestigious Breitling for Bentley collection.

Is it better to buy a watch from an authorized dealer? ›

Better warranty coverage. While most watches come with a basic warranty (usually 1-3 years), authorized watch dealers will commonly provide an extended warranty that can prolong your coverage for up to 5 years, allowing for a replacement or repair should the watch have a defect.

How many watches does Breitling make a year? ›

Last year Breitling produced 150,000 watches, all of which were COSC-certified. Only 2 per cent of all Swiss watches manufactured receive the stringent COSC certification that attests to the accuracy of the timepiece. The only other brand which has 100 per cent of its production COSC-certified is Rolex.

Does James Bond wear Breitling? ›

James Bond himself, aka Sean Connery, wore a Breitling Top Time in the 1965 Bond flick Thunderball. This Breitling was in fact the only watch that Connery wore besides his signature Rolex Submariner.

What Breitling does Jerry Seinfeld wear? ›

While Seinfeld's go-to watch choice is a classic 1990s Breitling Navitimer with 6, 9, 12 layout and Valjoux 7750 movement, his decision to go with a Breitling Chronomat B01 42 is something unexpectedly expected.

Who is the female ambassador of Breitling? ›

Misty Copeland

She overcame strict stereotypes of ballet to earn her credentials and today, she is an ambassador to NGO MindLeaps, an organization that uses dance to develop social-emotional learning for at-risk youth, to ensure success at school and to leap forward in life.

Why do pilots like Breitling watches? ›

The brand has won pilots' favor over the decades due to the functionality and rugged build of the watches themselves, which have evolved over time as much as the planes the pilots are flying. Breitling began to supply “onboard chronographs” for aircraft in the late 1930s.

Is Breitling better than tag? ›

Most well-versed watch collectors would say that Breitling is a more respected and prestigious watchmaker and hold Breitling as a brand, to a higher standard than TAG Heuer. There are always those collectors that would swear by Breitling but still own a TAG Monaco or a Carrera Heuer 01 in his or her collection.

Is Breitling a pilots watch? ›

Breitling pilot watches have distinguished themselves for decades. It's little wonder they have long been considered by pilots, airlines, and aircraft manufacturers to be the best aviation watches in the world.

Is Tudor better than Breitling? ›

It really comes down to personal preference. If you're looking for a watch with an elegant and understated design, Tudor might be the brand for you. If you want something bold and daring, Breitling might be more up your alley. Both brands offer exceptional quality and craftsmanship, so you can't go wrong either way.

What is the most robust Breitling? ›

Breitling Avenger

Known as 'power in action', this collection features extreme robustness and shock resistance for a trusty tool watch on your every exploration. Whether it's by the sea or up the mountains, it's ready when you are!

Can you wear a Breitling everyday? ›

The quality of any Breitling is extremely high and can be worn 24 hours a day 365 days of the year. It will not wear out and of course, it is very expensive. Forget about wear and tear as Breitling is a quality make and you need not worry at all about wear and tear as your great-grandchildren will also love it.

What are the benefits of Breitling watches? ›

BENEFITS OF MY BREITLING NFT
  • PREMIUM SERVICES. Claim your Breitling NFT to access unique services, like our online estimation tool and the Breitling Trade platform(*). ...
  • TRADABILITY. Transfer your watch's ownership with a simple and secure blockchain transaction.
  • TRACEABILITY.

Are Breitlings cheaper in Switzerland? ›

Prices are about the same everywhere. Be careful that you don't try to take a tax free watch into another country in Europe - you can be charged the import duty!

Which is the most expensive watch brands in the world? ›

Feature: Top 10 Most Expensive Luxury Watch Brands
  • A. Lange & Söhne. ...
  • Audemars Piguet. ...
  • Blancpain. ...
  • Breguet. ...
  • Grand Seiko. ...
  • Jaeger-LeCoultre. ...
  • Patek Philippe. ...
  • Richard Mille.

Does Breitling use Seiko movements? ›

Many luxury brands use Seiko movements, including Breitling, Armida, and Invicta.

Why do people like Breitling? ›

Chronograph timepieces are among the most well-known and highly coveted within Breitling's catalog. People love them for their unique aesthetic and their functionality as a tool watch. In fact, Breitling timepieces have played a significant role in the world of aviation.

Does Breitling use gold? ›

Discover the gold Breitling watches whose cases and bracelets are crafted either from 18K gold or from an eye-catching combination of gold and stainless steel. Gold has always been admired for its beauty and its lasting value and the Breitling gold watches are as elegantly dressed as you are.

What is the iconic Breitling watch? ›

Probably the most recognizable of all Breitling watches – both past and present – is the Navitimer: the iconic pilot's watch complete with a slide rule bezel designed to be an analog flight computer for mid-flight calculations.

Are Breitling watches mechanical or quartz? ›

While other brands were using quartz for its price, Breitling began using it as the basis for developing the most precise and reliable watches on the market.

Why Breitling watches are so expensive? ›

Breitling watches are some of the most sought-after due to their outstanding designs, high-quality materials, and timeless durability. Aside from this, they are also some of the most expensive watches on the market. Breitling has quite a few models that utilize gold, stainless steel, and titanium.

Who are the Breitling ambassadors? ›

Charlize Theron, Misty Copeland, and Yao Chen – three talented women who are recognized amongst the best in the field of performing arts – are Breitling's Spotlight Squad. Not only do these fierce women put the spotlight on the stage but these self-made philanthropists also use their success to help and empower others.

Which Breitling went to space? ›

On May 24, 1962, Breitling was awarded the title of “first Swiss wristwatch in space” with the Navitimer Cosmonaute. This watch, the progenitor of the new Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute, was on the wrist of astronaut Scott Carpenter, who orbited the Earth three times on the Mercury-Atlas 7 mission.

What is the financial performance of Breitling? ›

Switzerland-based luxury watches manufacturer Breitling Holding S.a.r.l. reported resilient performance amid COVID-19 supporting S&P Global Ratings-adjusted debt to EBITDA of close to 7.0x in fiscal year (FY) 2021 (year ended March 31, 2021). We beli...

Where does Breitling watches rank? ›

Omega ranks at #7 most recognized Swiss company worldwide, and #2 most recognizable Swiss watch brand. Omega has 70% brand recognition globally. Breitling is #41 most recognized Swiss company worldwide and #15 most recognizable Swiss watch brand. Omega also has a much bigger global recognition compared to Breitling.

Is Omega as prestigious as Rolex? ›

It's one area where Rolex has an edge over Omega, and that counts for a lot. Despite Omega's illustrious history, when it comes to the strength of the brand, no luxury watchmaker comes close to Rolex. Rolex is not only the most well-known luxury watch brand, but one of the most reputable brands in any category.

What is the costliest Omega watch? ›

The most expensive Omega watch ever made is the Constellation Baguette, worth $700,000 and featuring 459 Top Wesselton diamonds totaling about 30 carats and a case made from white gold.

Which is more expensive TAG Heuer or Rolex? ›

Rolex is the king of resale value when it comes to luxury watches. Not just because they're more expensive but also the brand name. And TAG Heuer isn't beating that today. But resale value generally depends on the condition of the watch, casing, warranty, or status of the previous owner.

Which is more expensive Patek or Rolex? ›

As a result of these differences, Patek Philippe watches are, in general, more expensive than Rolex models.

Are Breitling watches made in China? ›

Breitling SA (German pronunciation: [ˈbraɪtlɪŋ]) is a Swiss luxury watchmaker founded in 1884 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, by Léon Breitling. The company is known for its precision-made chronometers designed for aviators and is based in Grenchen, Switzerland.

How much did CVC buy F1 for? ›

The latter point can't be stressed enough. Yes, CVC spent big money to get their hands on F1: one billion dollars in funds plus more again in loans for a total of $2.1 billion. But they reaped the rewards, taking $4.5 billion out of the sport, an above-average return on that initial stake.

What happened to Breitling for Bentley? ›

For the past two decades, Bentley and Breitling have collaboratively achieved extraordinary levels of luxury for their customers. Today, they announce that they will be parting ways at the end of 2021, remaining firm friends, having shared many experiences and achievements together.

When did Theodore Schneider take over Breitling? ›

On April 5th, 1979, he signed the contract that gave him the reigns of the Breitling brand. Schneider didn't see quartz as the enemy. In fact, he recognized an opportunity in it. On the one side, quartz provided the kind of precision and reliability that true professionals demanded in their timepieces.

What is the most expensive F1 card ever sold? ›

That was only three months after a Lewis Hamilton one-of-one Superfractor Topps card became the most expensive F1 trading card of all time, selling for a whopping $900,000 (around £745,000) by renowned auctioneers Goldin.

How much did Rolex pay F1? ›

In a sport where milliseconds matter, it would be difficult to find a better partner than Rolex. According to Forbes, Rolex pay an estimated annual fee of $50 million to Formula 1 in order for their logo to be plastered on cars, drivers and advertising boards at race tracks.

Who is the owner of CVC Capital Partners? ›

Steve Koltes, Co-Founder and Co-Chair of CVC, commented: “CVC outgrew a dependence on any single individual or group of individuals long ago. The firm attracts, motivates and energises a collection of talent second to none. For everything I can do well, there are dozens in the firm who can do it better.

Is Breitling coming back? ›

For many, they are discovering the brand for the first time, but for those of us who are watch enthusiasts, it is great to see that Breitling is back.

Is Breitling a true luxury watch? ›

It is still considered a major luxury watch brand, but most people recall the Rolex brand more than Breitling. Breitling was founded in 1884 by Léon Breitling. He helped make chronographs for industrial, military, and scientific applications. Léon Breitling passed away in 1914 and his son Gaston Breitling took over.

Do you get a free Breitling watch when you buy a Bentley? ›

That's why Bentley's long-standing partner, Breitling, manufactured a commemorative Ice Special Edition chronograph that will also be produced in 100 pieces and will be available, free of charge to buyers of the Continental ISR.

How much are old Breitling watches worth? ›

There have been hundreds of Breitling models made over several the decades, and each one holds a unique value, which can range from about $1000 to hundreds of thousands of dollars. If you're unsure which model you own, first check the paperwork that came with your watch. If it's unavailable, you'll have to look deeper.

How many Breitlings are made a year? ›

Last year Breitling produced 150,000 watches, all of which were COSC-certified. Only 2 per cent of all Swiss watches manufactured receive the stringent COSC certification that attests to the accuracy of the timepiece. The only other brand which has 100 per cent of its production COSC-certified is Rolex.

What celebrity wears Breitling? ›

Mel Gibson, Actor, Aviastar. Miles Davis, Jazz Musician, Navitimer. Ming Tsai, Celebrity Chef, Chrono Avenger. Nick Lachey, Singer, Chronomat + Others.

What watch did Tom Selleck wear? ›

On later seasons of the show, Selleck famously wore a Rolex GMT-Master, but for the first few years of the series the actor swore by a Chronosport Sea Quartz 30, a sturdy, unassuming dive watch that perfectly complemented his signature mix of sportswear, workwear, and military pieces.

What watch did Charlie Chaplin wear? ›

Over the course of his somewhat unconventional career, Chaplin owned two unconventional watches—a rare, left-handed Rolex and a pink gold IWC. The Rolex Oyster was one of a few left-handed models produced by the brand at the time.

What watch does Newman wear Seinfeld? ›

Breitling Navitimer Watches

From his days on “Seinfeld” (the watch not only appears on plenty of episodes but also on promotional images) to more recent appearances on “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee,” this steel and black leather Breitling Navitimer is apparently a favorite of Jerry Seinfeld.

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