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While the economy in the luxury sector is slowly recovering, Japanese watchmaker Grand Seiko has been based in Place Vendôme since 5 June this year. On the occasion of this opening, the watchmaker is presenting two limited editions of ten pieces inspired by the famous square where it is located.
A symbolic opening since the square is recognised as the stronghold of French jewellers and Swiss watchmakers. This “flagship” reinforces the presence of the Japanese brand in France and Europe.
“We are making these investments because we firmly believe in Grand Seiko’s long-term prospects. Opening a Grand Seiko boutique at Place Vendôme is a strong symbol of our ambition to make Grand Seiko one of the leading brands in the international luxury watch market, as is already the case in Japan,” says Shinji Hattori, CEO of Seiko Watch Corporation and great-grandson of the founder of the house, Kintaro Hattori.
He added that the group, which has 61 stores in France and abroad, is in talks with banks and the finance ministry about a possible state-guaranteed loan of 300 million euros.
Established within a historical monument, Grand Seiko – ex Fred store – lifts the veil on a boutique of more than 190 m² on two floors. The design was entirely thought out by the Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. Between traditional and contemporary, the interior decoration of the store is anchored in the Japanese culture inherent in the spirit of the brand.
“I wanted to create a store where you can feel the Japanese sensibility and culture in which nature has such an important place. So I focused first on the materials used that show the ultimate attention to detail that craftsmanship pays.” says Kengo Kuma.
The shop is embellished with traditional Japanese materials such as sumushiko bamboo covering the walls and washi stone. This is harmoniously enhanced by more contemporary materials such as Vals stone and oak.
Organised on two levels, the prestigious boutique exhibits iconic and exclusive pieces on the ground floor, while on the first floor, the breathtaking view of the square enhances the watchmaker’s collection.
© Grans Seiko
“We are thus taking a major step forward in our European development with the opening of this first boutique on Place Vendôme, which illustrates – in the heart of the City of Light – the history, strength and richness of the Grand Seiko brand and its collection,” comments Frédéric Boudoux, President of Grand Seiko Europe.
A very inspiring environment for the house which features two limited editions of ten numbered pieces, exclusively available in the Parisian flagship store.
These are two Elegance timepieces with cases in platinum for 38,000 euros or 39 mm pink gold for 28,000 euros. Their dials are decorated with a “pavé de Paris” motif, with carat hour-markers and the blue-green hand evokes the Vendôme column. All protected by a domed sapphire crystal and a crocodile strap.
© Grand Seiko
Inside, a hand-wound mechanical calibre 9S63 offers a small seconds at 9 o’clock and a power reserve at 3 o’clock.
Grand Seiko Boutique Paris Vendôme
7, Place Vendôme
75001 Paris France
Read also > SWITZERLAND : FOREIGN TRADE COLLAPSES IN APRIL, WATCH EXPORTS NOT SPARED
Featured photo : © Grand Seiko[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
