Editor’s Note
This strategic acquisition highlights the growing importance of vertical integration and securing specialized craftsmanship in high-end manufacturing. As expertise becomes a scarce commodity, such investments are crucial for preserving legacy and ensuring future innovation.
At a time when mastery of the production ecosystem is becoming a competitive advantage in the luxury industry, particularly in watchmaking and jewelry, Audemars Piguet is determined to secure its position. By making a majority investment in Inhotec, a company founded in 2011 and specialized in micro-mechanics and precision machining, the manufacturer from Le Brassus aims to secure access to rare skills in an industry where the transmission of expertise is a major challenge.
This transaction, the amount of which has not been disclosed, is also strategic to anticipate market developments.
emphasizes Lucas Raggi, Chief Industrial Officer of the Maison, which reportedly accounted for just over 5% of the Swiss watch market in 2024 according to a Morgan Stanley report released earlier this year.
While the manufacture will provide “strategic and financial” support to Inhotec, the latter—which has just over 200 employees—will continue to enjoy operational autonomy in terms of management, industrial activities, and commercial relations, Audemars Piguet specifies.
