Jewelry & Watches

Breitling Ushers in a New Era: The House of Brands Takes Center Stage at Dubai Watch Week

A bold strategy unites three iconic maisons – Breitling, Universal Genève, and Gallet – under one visionary umbrella ahead of a landmark 2026 relaunch.

In a defining moment for contemporary watchmaking, CEO Georges Kern unveiled the House of Brands at Dubai Watch Week, introducing a strategic new chapter that unites Breitling, Universal Genève, and Gallet. The announcement positions the three Maisons under a curated vision that embraces heritage, innovation, and the full spectrum of luxury – “from accessible to exceptional,” as Kern describes it.

Following global previews earlier this year, the spotlight now turns to the Middle East, Southeast Asia and India – regions Kern identifies as pivotal to the industry’s future. Dubai Watch Week, one of horology’s most influential stages, set the tone for what promised to be a transformative era.

Both Universal Genève and Gallet – historic chronograph specialists that went dormant after the quartz crisis – are preparing for a distinguished comeback in 2026. Gallet, relaunching in autumn 2026 as an entry-luxury brand produced by Breitling, brings two centuries of pioneering credibility, from the Wright brothers’ stopwatch to the iconic Flying Officer.

At the ultra-luxury end, Universal Genève returns as a standalone Maison, reviving its legacy as Le Couturier de la Montre, famed for masterpieces like the Polerouter and Compax.

Anchoring the trio, Breitling bridges modern-retro sensibilities with technical mastery, reinforcing its independence and manufacturing prowess.

To mark the moment, Breitling inaugurated a dedicated two-story pavilion at Dubai Watch Week, offering an exclusive first look at a vision set to reshape the luxury watch landscape.

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