PPR, owner of Gucci and Puma, has just acquired 50.1% of Sowind Group which comprises Girard Perregaux and JeanRichard. PPR previously held a minority stake in Sowind. Since the passing of Gino Macaluso, there has been speculation on the future direction of Sowind so this is not unexpected. With PPR’s minority stake this was long expected. Both his sons will continue in their roles running GP and JR respectively. This acquisition marks the end of the independence of one of the last family owned high end watchmakers. – SJX

More interesting content when I return. – SJX

Eva Leube Ari

The Sydney Tarts, an Australian group of watch and food lovers, just posted an interview with watchmaker Eva Leube. Australia’s first independent watchmaker, Eva’s first creation is the curved Ari, which takes its cues from the Movado Polyplan and Gruen Curvex of the last century.

– SJX