Backed by a “high double-digit growth” recorded in Doha last year, Vacheron Constantin is eyeing a stronger market in 2016 with the upcoming opening of a standalone boutique in Qatar.
Vacheron Constantin’s expansion plans in Doha will be highlighted by the opening of a boutique at Villaggio in August this year, Middle East area sales manager Ziad al-Rifai told Gulf Times at the 13th Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) being held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.
“It is a very important and strategic step for the reputation and image of Vacheron Constantin to have a full-sized boutique, which will showcase all the collections, very exclusive pieces and high complication pieces.
“Vacheron Constantin has three corners run by Alfardan Jewellery. Rather than a multi-brand boutique, the one opening this year in Qatar is a standalone boutique, which will also be run by Alfardan Jewellery,” al-Rifai explained.
He said Vacheron Constantin recorded a “high double-digit growth” in Doha in 2015. “Actually, 2015 was a record year for Vacheron Constantin in Doha. It was definitely one of our very strong years. There was demand for quite a few high complication pieces and, of course, our Overseas Collection, which is in great demand in Qatar,” he said.
He further noted, “What’s actually good for Doha is that for 2016, we have launched the new Overseas Collection (third generation), featuring in-house movement and lots of different features like interchangeable straps and a slightly-bigger size (42.5mm).
“For Vacheron Constantin, we like to stick to our DNA…the previous version was 42mm, but the new collection is slightly larger. Since Qataris like bigger watches, I think it will be an advantage for us to launch the new Overseas.”
Asked about Vacheron Constantin’s strong appeal to Qataris, al-Rifai said: “The history of the brand is one of the most important elements that add to the appeal of Vacheron Contantin to Qataris.
“Aside from our reputation in the market since 1755, Qataris understand complications and what they mean, as well as how the brand has established itself as a niche market. When you focus on that niche market, Qataris really understand that and they like to see new complications, which we consider as one of our strengths.”
On the impact of the new boutique in terms of further growth in the Qatari market, he added: “We’re hoping that the image of the brand is further strengthened by the presence of the new boutique. It is quite important and strategic to be in the country with a boutique.”