Antony Lindsay, CEO of the historic house of Faberge, on balancing tradition and innovation

Famed for its legendary objets d’art, especially the Imperial Easter Eggs created for the Russian Imperial family, the 183-year-old house of Faberge may not be a name that is historically linked to watchmaking.

Today, however, the brand has a highly curated portfolio of artistic timepieces that are as equally covetable as its jewels and objects. Needless to say, each horological creation is a stunning demonstration of the incredible levels of artistry it has always been renowned for.

Despite Faberge’s illustrious heritage that had won the admiration of industry greats like Louis-Francois Cartier, its CEO Antony Lindsay tells us more about how esteemed brands like his need to convey value in a relevant way for today’s market. And showcasing this modern relevance is its latest watch created for Sincere Fine Watches’ 70th anniversary.

What is your vision for Faberge, which is already one of the most revered names in luxury?

Our vision, or mission, is to continue pushing the boundaries of artistry and craftsmanship, optimising the art of colour with enamel and coloured gemstones, using both time-honoured and innovative techniques. Our creations lead us and always will. 

That dedication is clearly evident with the creation of your latest commemorative watch for Sincere. Tell us more.

Marking a first for the Faberge Compliquee watch collection, this edition introduces a butterfly motif that is inspired by Sincere Fine Watches’ Platinum Jubilee celebration. Encased in an 18k rose gold case adorned with 1.83 carats of sparkling brilliant-cut diamonds, the Faberge Compliquee Butterfly Tropics Sincere Platinum Jubilee Edition is a masterpiece of horological artistry. The vibrant dial features a delicate orchid, meticulously crafted from hand-set yellow and pink sapphires, set against a backdrop of lush tsavorite garnets, which evoke the verdant beauty of an idyllic garden. 

We hear that its watchmaking expression is just as brilliant.

It features the calibre 6901, a unique movement developed by Agenhor Manufacture exclusively for Faberge. Hours are displayed via a numbered mother-of-pearl ring that rotates counter-clockwise around the winding crown at 3 o’clock. Minutes are indicated by the position of the butterfly’s wings, which unfurl each hour and return to zero only when the leading wing reaches 60, creating a dynamic scene as time unfolds on the wearer’s wrist. 

How would you describe Faberge’s approach to watchmaking?

In keeping with the Faberge tradition, we seek to work with the very finest craftsmen and women from around the world, which enables us to create unique items of unsurpassed craftsmanship and design that will stand the test of time (pardon the pun), and can be passed down from generation to generation. 

What are some of the challenges of helming such a storied company?

Being custodians of one of the most celebrated and treasured names in luxury is a tremendous privilege and responsibility. And we approach each day with an enormous sense of pride and, not least, honour. At times, this great honour can weigh heavily, but more often than not, it provides us with a myriad of exciting opportunities and a constant source of inspiration. 

How much does having a strong heritage help to attract today’s younger consumers?

Many of today’s leading luxury brands use their heritage and legacy to convey value, which in-turn, develops authenticity and trust that contribute to heightened consumer loyalty. While brand heritage can be a tremendous asset, it must be conveyed in a relevant way. 

As times change and social movements develop, brands must adapt to survive. Heritage brands must master the delicate balancing act of meeting the demand for innovation while upholding tradition. Heritage offers the opportunity to pass on stories to the next generation and can transport clients from a journey of discovery to a destination of desire. To coin a phrase we love at Faberge, “Our Heritage, Your Legacy”. 

What do you make of the mood of the luxury watch market right now?

I would say it’s been a challenging year for the industry as a whole, due to ongoing global, macro-economic uncertainties. However, I’m pleased to report that we’ve had a positive year at Faberge to date, and our watch sales are up year-on-year. We have also been nominated for no less than two awards at last year’s GPHG. 

This story was originally published on The Peak Malaysia.