Lifestyle

Rolex, Omega, Cartier, Breitling, and Other Luxury Watchmakers Respond to Tariffs with Price Increases

Luxury watch enthusiasts and collectors might soon find themselves digging deeper into their pockets as prominent brands such as Rolex, Omega, Cartier, and Breitling announce forthcoming price increases in response to recently imposed tariffs. With watchmakers responding to tariffs, the imposition of tariffs on Swiss imports into the United States has triggered a wave of adjustments within the luxury watch industry, affecting both pricing strategies and market dynamics significantly.

Ultimately, Buyers will be the ones hit as Watchmakers Respond to Tariffs — Ultimately, Buyers will be the ones hit by the tariffs as watchmakers respond to tariffs

Background of the Tariffs

The scenario began unfolding when former President Donald Trump initially announced severe tariffs of up to 31% on Swiss products. Switzerland, renowned globally as the epicentre of luxury watchmaking, quickly found itself in a state of alarm. Dealers and retailers reacted urgently; some vintage dealers swiftly arranged emergency shipments to preemptively stockpile inventory, anticipating the impact these tariffs would have on the market. The industry breathed a collective sigh of relief when the administration introduced a 90-day postponement of the most extreme tariffs, but the remaining 10% levy has continued to exert considerable pressure on watchmakers and dealers alike.

Breitling have also announced a new price structure is incoming — Breitling has also announced that a new price structure is incoming

Impact on Brands and Pricing

Rolex, arguably the most iconic name in luxury timepieces, was among the first to confirm price adjustments. Starting May 1, Rolex raised its prices by approximately 3%, a notable shift for collectors and prospective buyers alike. Following Rolex’s move, Omega soon disclosed plans to increase prices by an average of 5% across its collections. These adjustments set the stage for widespread market expectations of similar responses from other major watch manufacturers.

Sources within the industry strongly indicate that additional brands under Richemont and Swatch Group umbrellas, notably Cartier, are also preparing to adjust their retail prices. Breitling, an independent yet equally prestigious watchmaker, will also implement similar changes. Luxury conglomerate LVMH, home to esteemed brands like TAG Heuer and Bvlgari, is similarly expected to raise prices in line with industry trends, with projected increments ranging between 3% and 5%.

The tariffs have not only affected pricing but also narrowed the profit margins available to authorised dealers, who traditionally rely heavily on sales of these high-value items. Reduced margins might further disrupt the sales ecosystem, compelling dealers to rethink strategies for sustaining their businesses amidst increased operating costs.

Smaller Watch brands Have Already Started T Factor in Higher Prices as Watchmakers Respond to Tariffs — Smaller Watch brands Have Already Started T Factor in Higher Prices

Consumer Impact and Market Dynamics

While a 10% tariff increase might initially appear modest compared to the proposed 31%, the tangible impact on the luxury watch market remains significant. The price hikes brought about by the tariffs have already begun influencing consumer purchasing decisions, particularly among middle-tier collectors and buyers whose budgets are more sensitive to price fluctuations.

Joshua Ganjei, a notable figure at Boston’s European Watch Company, points out that these price hikes are reshaping how enthusiasts engage with the market. He highlights a growing shift toward the secondary market, where pre-owned luxury watches offer more appealing financial propositions compared to new retail purchases. As MSRP climbs, the allure of sourcing watches through alternative channels, such as pre-owned dealerships, intensifies.

Trump's Tariffs have effected numerous industries — Trump’s Tariffs have affected numerous industries

The Secondary Market’s Opportunity as Watchmakers Respond to Tariffs

As prices for new watches rise, the secondary market stands poised to benefit substantially. Collectors seeking to avoid paying increased retail prices are likely to redirect their attention toward pre-owned watches, enhancing the already booming secondary market. This trend presents considerable opportunities for resellers and pre-owned luxury watch specialists who could see a spike in demand and increased sales volume.

Ganjei suggests that tariffs represent not merely a temporary policy shift but rather a fundamental transformation in how American collectors access luxury watches. The secondary market, therefore, is positioned to gain considerable traction, offering more economically accessible alternatives to luxury watch enthusiasts.

The reselling market will also be effected — The reselling market will also be affected

Reactions Among High-End Independent Brands

Interestingly, not all segments of the luxury watch industry express immediate concern over the tariffs. Brands such as H. Moser & Cie, which cater predominantly to high-end collectors less influenced by market volatility, remain relatively unperturbed. Edouard Meylan, CEO of H. Moser & Cie, conveyed confidence despite the unexpected tariff announcements. Meylan emphasised the importance of maintaining strong, long-term relationships with retail partners, stating that most orders placed ahead of these tariffs remain secure.

H. Moser & Cie proactively responded to the initial tariff announcement by swiftly shipping products to US retailers before the potential increase could take effect, demonstrating strategic agility. Such proactive measures reflect how adaptable independent brands can be in navigating unpredictable regulatory landscapes, particularly when supported by loyal, affluent clientele whose buying patterns are resilient to short-term fluctuations.

Rolex Will Raise Prices In Response To Tariffs — Rolex Will Raise Prices In Response as watchmakers respond to tariffs

Broader Implications

The ripple effect of these tariffs reaches far beyond consumers’ wallets. The luxury watch industry, notably reliant on intricate global supply chains and sensitive to international policy shifts, faces potential challenges in maintaining steady operations and profitability. While major brands and high-end independents might weather the storm, smaller retailers and dealers may face disproportionate struggles due to shrinking margins and potentially declining sales.

Moreover, if the tariffs dampen overall demand, watch manufacturers could face slower inventory turnover and disrupted production schedules.

This scenario would not only impact manufacturers directly but also reverberate through the broader luxury goods market, affecting ancillary businesses and associated industries reliant on robust luxury goods sales.

Rolex will now be more expensive as Watchmakers Respond to Tariffs — Building collections will now be a lot more expensive

Consumer Strategies Moving Forward

For consumers determined to purchase specific luxury watches despite higher prices, timing and market awareness become critical. Understanding market dynamics, tracking price adjustments, and considering strategic buying windows could mitigate some impacts of these price increases. Additionally, buyers may increasingly leverage relationships with trusted secondary market dealers, ensuring they obtain desired models at comparatively favourable prices.

Bond will have to go on a couple more missions to afford his Seamaster

Conclusion

The introduction of tariffs has undeniably shaken the luxury watch market, prompting brands like Rolex, Omega, Cartier, Breitling, and others to revise their pricing strategies upward. While immediate consumer responses vary widely depending on economic factors and personal purchasing power, the long-term implications could reshape luxury watch buying patterns profoundly.

Whether these tariffs remain a short-lived challenge or evolve into a prolonged reality, their initial impact is unmistakably significant. Collectors and buyers must now navigate a market where increased prices are the new norm, prompting a reevaluation of buying strategies and market interactions. This shift may permanently alter the landscape of luxury watch collecting, highlighting adaptability as the defining trait for brands, retailers, and consumers alike in navigating an uncertain future.

Related Topics:Breitling Cartier Luxury Omega Rolex tariffs watchmakers

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Official Images Of The Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’

The official images of the Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ have just surfaced, setting off excitement in sneaker circles around the world. Slated for release on 5 July 2025, this clean white silhouette completes a full-circle moment for Jordan Brand, coming right after the reissue of its darker sibling—the ‘Black Cat’. JD Sports has revealed a crystal-clear view of the sneaker, confirming that this updated version remains as true to the 2007 original as ever.

An Air Jordan Legacy in White: Back to 2007

The Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ was first introduced in 2007 as part of a duo pack alongside the ‘Black Cat’ edition. At the time, Jordan Brand was beginning to push beyond OG colorways, experimenting with styles that leaned into minimalism. ‘Pure Money’ was a standout—an all-white, tumbled leather masterpiece with subtle silver accents and a premium feel. In 2025, the retro version is staying loyal to that vision with its elegant features.

Crafted in crisp white leather with metallic silver upper eyelets and Jumpman logos in cool grey, this sneaker radiates understated elegance. The elephant print overlays on the toe and heel are slightly toned with a warm, off-white tint—distinguishable only to the trained eye and a nuanced evolution from the original release.

Hidden Details, Maximum Impact

One of the best easter eggs for true fans is the return of the ‘Pure $’ embroidery hidden behind the heel tabs, honoring the Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ legacy. This signature detail pays homage to the original and solidifies the retro’s credibility among collectors. Jordan Brand has also included an extra set of patterned elephant print laces to switch up the look without sacrificing cohesion.

These details may be minor, but they matter. In a market flooded with loud, collab-heavy releases, the Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ is a calm, confident callback to the golden era of retros.

A Perfect Summer Drop

Dropping in July is no coincidence. With its breathable leather upper and tonal white profile, the Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ is a summer essential and a perfect addition to any wardrobe. It works with everything—denim, joggers, shorts—and adapts easily from streetwear to smart casual.

This drop also coincides with the reissue of the ‘Black Cat’, completing the story arc from 2007. In contrast to its stealthy twin, ‘Pure Money’ is bright, clean, and unapologetically premium.

Family Sizes and UAE Availability

Full family sizing is confirmed: men’s, grade school, preschool, and toddlers. Adult pairs will retail for $210 (approx. AED 770). UAE sneakerheads can expect availability via Nike SNKRS, JD Sports UAE, Foot Locker Middle East, and select boutiques in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Raffles are expected to open early July for the much-awaited Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ drop.

This inclusive sizing ensures Jordan Brand’s appeal cuts across generations, echoing the global reach the Jumpman has cultivated since the 80s.

Subtle Power in a Loud World

The ‘Pure Money’ retro doesn’t scream for attention—and that’s precisely its charm. In an era dominated by visual overload, this release embraces clean design and careful craftsmanship, maintaining the legacy of Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’. The warm-tinted elephant overlays, the heritage branding, and the use of luxurious leather all serve to elevate this sneaker beyond its simple colorway.

It’s a modern minimalist’s dream and a purist’s trophy. It appeals to those who want history underfoot without being flashy about it.

Comparing With the Air Jordan ‘Black Cat’

Released earlier this year, the ‘Black Cat’ offered an opposite aesthetic: all-black, stealthy, and moody. ‘Pure Money’ brings balance. Where ‘Black Cat’ is evening wear, ‘Pure Money’ is midday shine. Both complete the thematic pack, but ‘Pure Money’ delivers wider versatility, making it arguably more wearable on a day-to-day basis.

From a quality standpoint, the white version might even surpass its sibling. The texture of the leather, the stitching finesse, and the iconic branding all feel thoughtfully executed.

A Cultural Reset

What the Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ really represents is a cultural pause. A moment to remember what made sneaker culture matter. Before the bots, before resale madness—there were shoes like the Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ that simply looked good, felt premium, and told a story. This drop harks back to those days.

And yet, it isn’t stuck in the past. The 2025 update honors the legacy while refining just enough to make it fresh. It’s for the seasoned sneakerhead and the newcomer alike. For the collector and the casual fan.

UAE Sneaker Culture: Why It Fits

In the UAE, where clean silhouettes and high-end fashion cross paths every day, the Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ fits perfectly. The climate supports light tones, and the streetwear scene continues to evolve. This release will undoubtedly resonate with both the fashion-forward and the culturally rooted.

Whether you’re in Dubai’s Design District or downtown Abu Dhabi, this shoe makes sense. It’s functional, premium, and limited enough to spark conversation.

The Air Jordan Legacy Lives On

The Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ isn’t just another retro. It’s a declaration. That Jordan Brand still remembers its roots. That minimalism still matters. That sometimes, the loudest thing you can wear is nothing loud at all.

Set for release on 5 July, this sneaker isn’t just about style. It’s about story, balance, and cultural heritage—the essence of Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’. It may come wrapped in white leather, but it carries the weight of history.

Lifestyle

Meet Balenciaga’s New Crative Director, Pierpaolo Piccioli

Balenciaga, one of the most talked-about names in fashion, has made a headline-grabbing move in July 2025 by appointing Pierpaolo Piccioli as Balenciaga’s new creative director. This appointment of Balenciaga’s new creative director takes place with immediate effect from 10 July, Piccioli takes over following Demna’s exit and shift to creative leadership at Gucci, marking a watershed moment in Kering’s brand recalibration. Balenciaga’s new creative director appointment sets the stage for one of the boldest creative transitions in fashion’s recent history.

👔 Who is Pierpaolo Piccioli?

Piccioli, a native of Nettuno, Italy, is best known for reshaping Valentino during his 25-year tenure. Originally co-creative director with Maria Grazia Chiuri (now at Dior), he led the maison solo from 2016 until his departure in 2024. His legacy is defined by:

Architectural haute couture silhouettes
Bold colour blocking and monochrome experiments
Red-carpet dominance with celebrities like Florence Pugh, Zendaya, and Anne Hathaway
Critical acclaim for presentations in Paris, Rome, Venice, and Beijing

At Valentino, Piccioli boosted brand visibility during post-pandemic luxury booms and reconnected younger audiences to couture, particularly via social media virality and red-carpet symbolism.

📊 Fashion Industry Context: 2025’s Creative Shakeup

Piccioli’s appointment isn’t happening in isolation. The year 2025 has been a turning point:

Brand	New Creative Director	Previous Director	Shift Summary
Gucci	Demna (ex-Balenciaga)	Sabato De Sarno	Streetwear revival
Dior	Peter Do (rumoured)	Maria Grazia Chiuri	Modern tailoring focus
Chanel	Virginie Viard exits	TBC	Classicism under review
Valentino	Alessandro Michele	Piccioli	Boho meets glamour

Kering’s reshuffle at Balenciaga, Gucci, and Bottega Veneta reflects its goal to reposition brands amid slowed growth, rising Gen Z influence, and high demand for both authenticity and exclusivity.

🧵 Why Balenciaga Chose Piccioli: Couture Meets Commerce

Kering’s official statement praised Piccioli as “a master of haute couture” with “a unique creative vision.” Yet the decision signals deeper intentions:

Aesthetic Reset: Moving away from Demna’s memeable, dystopian branding toward beauty, elegance, and heritage
Elevating Brand Equity: Couture excellence and fashion art matter more in a maturing market
Expanding Client Base: Attracting older and more traditional high-net-worth clients alongside progressive luxury consumers

Demna’s version of Balenciaga brought viral moments and rapid merch sales, but luxury’s top end has shifted. Clients are prioritising emotional connection, timeless silhouettes, and authenticity.

🎭 What Will Piccioli’s Balenciaga Look Like?

Piccioli is expected to show his first collection in October 2025. Whether it’s a full runway debut or a softer reveal remains to be seen. His potential strengths for Balenciaga include:

Reactivating Cristóbal Balenciaga’s archival DNA (volume, geometry, restraint)
Redefining ready-to-wear as wearable art
High fashion with humanistic undertones
Rebuilding accessories with longevity (a Piccioli weak spot at Valentino)

The real challenge: merging his romanticism with Balenciaga’s streetwear heritage, without alienating either camp.

👜 Balenciaga vs. Valentino: Performance Comparison (Pre-2025)

Metric	Valentino (under Piccioli)	Balenciaga (under Demna)
Peak Annual Revenue	~€1.4 billion (2022)	~€2.1 billion (2022)
Social Media Followers (IG)	18 million	14 million
Couture Focus	High	Relaunched (2021)
Accessories Share	Low to Moderate	High (Sneakers + Bags)

Valentino under Piccioli leaned heavily into couture, celebrity dressing, and emotion-led campaigns. By contrast, Balenciaga has been commercial, fast-paced, and often polarising.

Piccioli’s couture was among the most celebrated of the last decade. It was inclusive, casting diverse models and challenging narrow beauty norms. He frequently referenced:

Feminist narratives
Renaissance and religious art
Gender-neutral silhouettes
Poetic storytelling over spectacle

This philosophical backbone may inject intellectual credibility into Balenciaga’s next era—crucial for engaging critics, curators, and high-value collectors.

Balenciaga linked up with Lamborghini — Meet Balenciaga’s New Crative Director, Pierpaolo Piccioli

🔮 What This Means for Kering and the Fashion World

Kering’s stock is likely to see long-term impact from this directional move. Balenciaga, one of its crown jewels, must now:

Grow haute couture revenue
Rebuild mid-tier product trust (after controversy backlash)
Compete with LVMH’s Dior and Chanel on cultural capital

This appointment signals that Kering is investing in timeless luxury rather than trending virality—a pivot that mirrors macro-luxury trends post-2023.

“Piccioli is one of the most talented and celebrated designers of today… His mastery of haute couture and passion for savoir-faire made him the ideal choice for the house.” – Francesca Bellettini, Deputy CEO of Kering

Final Word: A New Future for Balenciaga

This is more than a leadership shuffle—it’s a transformation. With Pierpaolo Piccioli, Balenciaga is embracing fashion as art again, focusing on storytelling, structure, and sustainability.

Kering’s long-term strategy now hinges on whether the couture purist can make beauty, not noise, the new business model for 21st-century luxury.

Stay ahead of fashion’s next evolution right here.

Lifestyle

The LEGO Nike Dunk Set Drops July 1st: Here’s Everything You Need to Know

For once, these are some sneaker bricks you definitely can’t pass up. The LEGO Nike Dunk Set is officially here, and it’s bringing together two titans of creativity—LEGO and Nike—for one of the most hyped collectible launches of 2024.

Combining the cultural iconography of sneakers with the hands-on joy of LEGO building, this 1,180-piece LEGO Nike Dunk kit delivers a must-have experience for both sneakerheads and LEGO enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a collector, a DIY artist, or a parent hunting for the coolest summer release, the LEGO Nike Dunk set has already shot to the top of every “must-buy” list.

📦 LEGO Nike Dunk Set: Release Date, Price & Where to Buy

Release Date: July 1st, 2024
Price: $100 USD
Where to Buy: LEGO.com/nike (pre-order now), LEGO Stores, Nike.com

Mark your calendars. The LEGO Nike Dunk set officially drops on July 1st, but pre-orders are already open through LEGO’s official site.

Priced at $100, this isn’t just another sneaker or another toy—this is a full-on cultural fusion.

🧱 What’s Inside the LEGO Nike Dunk Box?

The 1,180-piece LEGO set replicates the iconic Nike Dunk silhouette in stunning detail, capturing the blue-and-white colourway that has defined the Dunk since its inception. But there’s more than just looks:

Working Storage Compartments: Hidden stash areas inside the Dunk shell
Custom Lacing Options: Extra LEGO shoelace bricks for full personalisation
Interactive Play: Rotatable brick basketball toy included
Collectible Minifigure: The exclusive Nike LEGO Minifig called “B’Ball Head”

Yes, you read that right—there’s a sneaker stash inside the LEGO Dunk. And with the rotatable basketball toy and Nike minifigure included, this is a build-and-play experience with endless display value.

🔥 Next Up: LEGO x Nike Air Max Dn (August 1st)

Launching just a month later, the LEGO x Nike Air Max Dn will drop on August 1st as a kids-exclusive release via Nike and select retailers.

This shoe is not a LEGO build—it’s wearable and designed with LEGO-inspired aesthetics:

Bright LEGO Yellow Upper: Primary colour nod to the toy brand’s origins
Studded Texture: Mimicking LEGO brick surfaces
Prismatic Midfoot & Heel Plate: For that dynamic, futuristic vibe
Translucent Dynamic Air Bubble Heel: Featuring a LEGO head inside

It’s more than a kids’ sneaker—it’s a wearable toy, art piece, and statement all in one. Perfect for gifting, collecting, or letting your little ones flex the coolest collab of the season.

👟 LEGO x Nike Dunk Low Drops September 1st

If the LEGO Dunk set and Air Max Dn weren’t enough, the LEGO x Nike Dunk Low sneaker will cap off the trilogy with a release date of September 1st.

Here’s what we know so far:

Colourway: White/Black
Upper: Seamless, single-piece upper
Tongue Detail: LEGO logo branding
Exclusive Drop: Nike and select retailers

This model is built for collectors and minimalists alike—clean, iconic, and infused with LEGO’s playful design ethos.

👟 LEGO and Nike: Why This Collab Works

This isn’t just a gimmick. LEGO and Nike are both cultural powerhouses. LEGO is about building, imagination, creativity. Nike is about movement, performance, identity. Together, they’ve created a collection that speaks to both worlds—one you can wear, build, or showcase.

As sneaker culture continues to evolve, and toy collecting hits mainstream relevance, this type of hybrid product is exactly what fans want. And from a design standpoint? Every detail—from the brickwork to the basketball—feels authentic, thoughtful, and unique.

📅 LEGO x Nike Timeline At A Glance:

Product	Release Date	Price	Availability
LEGO Nike Dunk Set	July 1, 2024	$100 USD	LEGO.com/Nike, LEGO Stores, Nike.com
LEGO x Nike Air Max Dn	August 1, 2024	TBA	Nike.com, select retailers
LEGO x Nike Dunk Low	September 1, 2024	TBA	Nike.com, select retailers

🛒 How to Secure Yours

Pre-order the LEGO Dunk Set right now on LEGO.com/nike
Sign up for launch alerts on Nike’s official app and retailer newsletters
Follow trusted retailers for confirmed stockists for the Air Max Dn and Dunk Low

Quantities will be limited—expect collector demand, resale markups, and hype-driven sellouts. This is your early warning.

Final Word: These Bricks Are Built Different

Whether you’re a sneakerhead, a LEGO builder, or someone who loves culturally iconic drops, this LEGO x Nike partnership might be the coolest collab of the year. From collectible builds to wearable sneakers, this series is redefining hype across generations.