Born in New York of parents active in the diplomatic corps, Davide Traxler has travelled the world since a young age. A genuine polyglot – he is fluent in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and carries a strong multi-cultural background. After graduating in Political Science in Milan Italy he soon joined the luxury industry developing his business acumen at a fast paced momentum.
With more than 15 years experience in this field, first with Bvlgari then with Chopard, he gathered knowledge in various domains of the luxury world, from retail to distribution. With roles such as Managing Director of Chopard Italy, then Chopard USA to WorldWide Licenses Director, Davide Traxler is known for his management ethic.
Transparency, team playing and a genuine humanistic approach of leadership are his signatures. Placing people, teams, their shared knowledge & experiences at the center of any equation are his core values.
On September 14th 2015, Citychamp Watch & Jewellery Group appointed Davide Traxler as CEO of Montres Corum. As the new leader of Corum management, he is implementing global strategy and is in charge of all business operations. This strategic appointment demonstrates Citychamp’s long term vision, confidence for sustainable development and continuous growth of the brand. It is a milestone in pursuing Corum’s redevelopment both continentally and internationally. In an exclusive interview with our Contributing Editor, Eldrich Ferns, Davide talks about Corum’s plans for Baselworld 2016 and the imminent future:
What is your favorite watch from the novelties to be launched at Baselworld 2016 and why?
My favorite is certainly the new round Golden Bridge – it is all about micromechanics that are a Corum tradition and transparency around our unique linear bridge movement – what more could you ask for?
What are the current trends in the watch business in your opinion?
The market has matured in terms of watch sizes and is maturing in the sizes of the egos of the players. Today the market is looking for something lovely as well as possibly unconventional and a bit debonair. Our belief is that we should put some fun into our products in addition to superior knowhow and technology. That is the theme around our Bubble Collection, which truly represents a Corum watch that is in cooperation with artists from all around the world.
What are your business projections for 2016 and beyond?
We are indeed optimistic as the year has had a great start and we need to improve our business and presence.
How important is the Middle East market for your brand? Please provide figures if possible or at least a percentage in terms of market share would be welcome?
We expect the Middle East market to reach over 15% of our total worldwide sales in 2016. But this does not include sales made to Middle Eastern clients in Paris, London or elsewhere. The Middle East market is a connoisseur-driven market that greatly influences the entire horological world.
What in your opinion is the significance of the smartwatch industry and the Apple watch in particular? Do you think it will have a long-term effect on the Swiss watch industry?
The Apple watch is great and the connected watch generation is a whole new existing world to come to the market and that will certainly grow. It does not of course possess the Corum DNA and I do not think that any watch can be called smarter than our fabulous Golden Bridge with our inimitable linear movement!
