Ecomdigest Watches Newsletter - 09.26.2024

PLUS: Join TikTok, Seraphine and Sweaty Betty for Fospha's BFCM live discussion on October 3

Author

Sophie Bruxner-Randall
September 26, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes

Editor’s Pick 🌟

Peak season is the single best opportunity for D2C brands. 

To help you capture it, Fospha has assembled a panel of industry experts. Join them for a live discussion featuring leaders at Sweaty Betty, Seraphine, and the Head of Measurement at TikTok. 

📅 Date: Thursday, 3 October 2024 

🕒 Time: 11 AM EST / 4 PM BST 

P.S. You'll have the chance to ask the experts questions about peak season strategies in real-time!

Gain exclusive insight into: 

  1. Proven tactics to maximize peak period opportunities, shared live by experts 

  2. Strategies for capturing customers efficiently through a full-funnel approach 

  3. Insights on growing your customer base profitably with effective measurement 

  4. Methods for identifying and capitalizing on growth headroom for efficient scaling across channels 

Specialty Bites 🍪

Just in time for the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, TAG Heuer has unveiled its latest Monaco chronograph, this time in an eye-catching racing green. While last year’s model focused on grey tones, 2024 introduces the Monaco Chronograph Racing Green, powered by the Sellita-derived Calibre 11. This new version features dark green chronograph registers against a sleek silver dial, paying homage to its motorsport heritage.

Now, let’s address the Calibre 11. While it retains the distinctive nine o’clock crown, reminiscent of the vintage Monaco layout, it’s not the in-house Heuer 02 movement. And at CHF9,100, it’s certainly not a bargain, though it does come in lower than its Heuer 02 counterparts. That said, the titanium case and classic motorsport color scheme make it a standout piece.

The design stays true to its origins with a 39 mm wide, 14.35 mm thick sandblasted titanium case. The silver sunray-brushed dial, inspired by 1920s sports car dashboards, features racing green twin registers and a yellow racing stripe at 12 o’clock. The historical Heuer logo adds a nostalgic touch to the overall look.

Limited to just 1000 pieces, this Monaco model will be available at TAG Heuer boutiques and online starting September 2024. For those who appreciate vintage aesthetics and racing heritage, this release is not to be missed.

Swiss watchmakers are urging the Swiss National Bank to curb the franc's strength as exports slump. Despite recent rate cuts, the franc remains high, impacting the industry. With exports down 2.4% in 2024, the sector faces job cuts and reduced work hours, threatening its economic stability

Omega's Seamaster Regatta Americas Cup is a high-end, quartz-digital wristwatch designed for professional sailors. Priced at $7,400, it features a titanium case, analog-digital display, and multiple functions including a regatta countdown. Despite its luxury price, it offers exceptional quality and functionality for yachting enthusiasts.

The black Apple Watch Ultra 2 is essentially the same as the regular Ultra 2, but in black. Despite its aesthetic appeal, upgrading solely for the color is impractical. The allure of the black finish is undeniable, yet it offers no functional improvements.

Watches & Wonders Geneva 2025 will feature Bulgari and six independent brands, including Christiaan van der Klaauw and Kross Studio. This addition shifts the event's dynamics, with a focus on youth and diversity. The fair, now hosting 60 brands, runs from April 1-7, 2025.

Performance Platters 🍽️

Brands like Belgian Boys and Olipop are shifting their focus to reach U.S. shoppers in smaller cities. They are investing in retail media networks and hyper-localized marketing to connect with busy parents and larger households. Platforms like Hummingbirds help brands create targeted campaigns, driving sales in specific regions.

Perplexity, backed by Nvidia and Jeff Bezos, is in talks with brands like Nike and Marriott to revolutionize AI-powered search advertising. They aim to replace Google's auction-based system with sponsored questions featuring AI-generated answers. This shift promises unbiased answers while enhancing user experience and advertising effectiveness.

VTEX's survey reveals that 45% of U.S. consumers have engaged in live shopping, with men leading in participation. Social video commerce is also popular, especially among Gen Z and millennials. Brands should leverage these trends, focusing on consistent, engaging experiences to boost consumer engagement and sales.

Ecomdigest is a Contentive publication in the DTC Ecommerce division