After months of anticipation, the Damiani Group has officially taken full ownership of the 193-year-old luxury watch brand Baume & Mercier, marking a significant shift in the high-end timepiece market, according to Fashionnetwork. This transaction transfers a storied Swiss watchmaker to a prominent Italian luxury group, opening a new chapter for both within the luxury sector.
A major luxury conglomerate, Richemont, divested this heritage watch brand. Simultaneously, a family-owned jeweler bet on its future growth. This reveals fundamentally opposing strategic visions for the same luxury asset.
This acquisition suggests a strategic re-evaluation of brand portfolios within the luxury sector, potentially leading to more targeted investments and divestments by major groups.
The Deal is Done: A New Era for Baume & Mercier
The Damiani Group and Richemont officially completed the acquisition of Baume & Mercier, according to Damianigroup and Professional Jeweller. This definitive transfer of ownership solidifies Damiani's strategic expansion into luxury timepieces and reshapes a segment of the high-end watch market.
A Planned Transition: Months in the Making
The sale of Baume & Mercier was initially announced in January 2026, according to Professional Jeweller. Its completion follows months of anticipation, confirming a deliberate strategic realignment for both Richemont and Damiani, not an abrupt shift.
What's Next for Baume & Mercier and Richemont?
Damiani Group is expected to integrate Baume & Mercier into its existing luxury portfolio. This integration offers the potential to revitalize the brand with fresh marketing and distribution strategies. Richemont, post-divestment, will likely sharpen its focus on core watch brands, aiming to optimize its luxury portfolio by year-end 2026.
