by Aminath Ifasa
  • 2 minute read
  • June 04, 2023
TimeVallée CEO Michael Guenoun On Why The UAE Is A Key Focus For The Brand

Luxury timepieces have a captivating allure like no other in the regional market. So, when multibrand boutique TimeVallée opened its first-ever UAE boutique in Abu Dhabi this month, watch enthusiasts offered it an arms-wide welcome.

Michael Guenoun, Global CEO of TimeVallée and International Distribution Director of Richemont Specialist Watchmakers’ Maisons, is one of the prime forces behind TimeVallée and its creative endeavours. With his sights set on further bolstering the brand’s position in the region, he speaks with Villa 88 about why the UAE is at the core of his vision for growth.

“Last year, we hosted a TimeVallée pop-up store for a year in Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi,” says Michael. “Following its success, our UAE partner, Trafalgar Luxury Group, and I decided to launch our first permanent store in the region,” he adds. The boutique is the brand’s 14th global outpost and solidifies the UAE capital’s status as a hub for watch connoisseurs. 

“It’s an important region for luxury and networking. We’re lucky to be in this industry where we see a strong appetite for luxury watches. The UAE’s young, knowledgeable, and passionate customer base, coupled with its thriving luxury market, make it an ideal destination for TimeVallée,” he shares.

In a post-COVID-19 world, TimeVallée has witnessed a surge in young customers, who are not only interested in purchasing luxury watches but also possess know-how of their craftsmanship and market value. “We’ve observed that the young generation is deeply intrigued by the luxury watch industry,” Michael holds.

The store houses a stellar collection of watches from seven brands, including Baume et Mercier, Cartier, IWC, Jaeger LeCoultre, Panerai, Watchfinder, and Piaget, with the latter also offering exquisite jewellery pieces.

Michael’s goal is to create a space where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of haute horlogerie and find the perfect timepiece to reflect their distinct personalities. “We’ve always struck a balance between heritage and innovation. This is what drives our success,” he notes.

TimeVallée’s strength lies in delivering enduring timepieces for clients who consider them to be heirlooms that can be passed down for generations. “We’re always stirring excitement in the market because the boutique experience includes offering exclusive and exceptional collections.”

The Maison’s ability to grip the attention of the UAE’s young demographic, its nods to tradition and innovation, and embrace of digital touchpoints contribute to its success in the ever-evolving luxury retail landscape. As it continues to redefine the horological experience, it’s sure to secure its position as a satiable timepiece hub for the UAE’s smart tastemakers.


Visit Timevallee.com and follow @Timevallee on Instagram.

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