The announcement follows a long-term strategy to partner with luxury specialists to preserve and develop expert savoir-faire (Photos: MB&F/Chanel)
Chanel has long been involved in independent watchmaking with minority stakes in Romain Gauthier (2011) as well as FP Journe (2018). The French maison can now add MB&F to its portfolio, after it acquired a 25% stake in the brand, known for its quirky designs inspired by retro futuristic and science fiction themes.
President of Chanel Watches and Fine Jewellery Frédéric Grangié describes this crossover of two creative giants on the edge of innovation “a long-term strategy to continue to preserve, develop and invest in specialist know-how”.
Beyond its exceptional fashions, iconic jewellery collections and unmistakable fragrances, Chanel has also garnered a reputation for producing some stunning pieces across the years including the J12 Couture Workshop Automaton Calibre 6 at Watches & Wonders 2024. While the maison has long been a player in the field of haute horlogerie, beginning with its first watch design studio in 1987 and its acquisition of G&F Châtelain Manufacture in 1993, this move demonstrates a commitment to taking its high-end watchmaking prowess to even greater heights.
In this partnership signed between Chanel SARL, Chanel’s Swiss entity and MB&F, founder Maximilian Büsser retains the majority of the company with 60%, while his business partner, and head of production of the watchmaker, Serge Kriknoff, owns 15%.
“In addition to allowing us to pursue our independent path, free of any pressure on growth, the investment by Chanel will strengthen our operations by providing access when needed to their wider ecosystem and network of specialised suppliers,” comments Büsser. The manufacture is also set to celebrate its 20th anniversary next year.
