WATCH & JEWELRY /
WATCH NEWS
May 11, 2015
DANIEL ROTH & GERALD GENTA | Unwavering individuality born from assured quality
DANIEL ROTH & GERALD GENTA | Daniel Roth & Gerald Genta
Solid Quality Creates Unwavering Individuality
Daniel Roth & Gerald Genta
Managing Director
An Interview with Gerald Roden
By Aki NagaoPhotos by Nobuo Iida
The Bonds Forged by Small-Scale Craftsmanship
Both "Gerald Genta" and "Daniel Roth" are watch brands with a unique individuality, excelling in complex mechanisms. Though founded relatively recently – Daniel Roth in 1989 and Gerald Genta in 1969 – they boast a legion of devoted fans.BulgariOverseeing these two brands, which belong to the Bulgari Group, is Managing Director Gerald Roden. Mr. Roden has been at the helm of these two brands since 1998.
"Gerald Genta and Daniel Roth have distinct production styles: one is 'contemporary,' the other 'conservative.' However, their concept is the same in that both were created by accomplished creators. Although the founders are no longer with us, we have continued to produce watches that honor their original vision, not to mention their quality."
What Creates Unique Individuality is "Quality"
Daniel Roth's "Assis V" adorns the wrist of Gerald Roden.
Their aim is to be extremely "niche." Mr. Roden emphasizes that even if the market is small, the quality of the watch has always been paramount. Furthermore, both Daniel Roth and Gerald Genta are brands with a deep commitment to "complex mechanisms." The skills of the watchmakers in their workshops are highly regarded.
"We have no intention of creating mass-produced watches. Our strength lies in our small scale, which allows us to directly engage with customer feedback and incorporate it on the factory floor. While we certainly aim to fulfill the desire for unique timepieces, cultivating 'trust' that will endure for 10 or 20 years is what matters most. We prioritize long-term relationships, including minor repairs. It's even acceptable if this leads to profitable resale in the secondary market (laughs), as it provides 'peace of mind' for the wearer. While the natural inclination is to increase production when sales are good, we never release watches that we cannot fully account for. That is the proof of our passion."
Many customers seeking not the latest model but a "unique piece" are drawn to Gerald Genta and Daniel Roth. Mr. Roden smiles as he notes that trendsetters, dressed in tailored suits and handmade shoes, often visit their boutiques.
"As I mentioned earlier, to pursue the individuality that is expected of us, our watches must be of the highest quality. Quality control is also a crucial part of my job. We have established a system so that even when customers visit Switzerland, the workshop can respond promptly if they provide a serial number. Regarding 'Grand Sonnerie,' which Gerald Genta excels at, we have implemented a system for precise accuracy measurement. We believe that every aspect of quality directly impacts the customer's state of mind."
Continuing the Brand with a Long-Term Vision
Because they are small brands, the focus is not on short-term profits but on building value incrementally over the long term. This is Mr. Roden's business philosophy.
"We are committed to preserving the brand DNA conceived by the two founders, Gerald Genta and Daniel Roth. This is a principle we have upheld. The 2009 new release, 'Andulée,' is a prime example of a watch that embodies the essence of Daniel Roth. We must continue to create pieces that would satisfy the founders, should they visit unexpectedly at any moment. Mr. Gerald Genta visits us monthly, and each time he leaves satisfied. For brands like ours, the ability to sustain our history is a crucial key. Without solid quality, brand value cannot be created."
Gerald Roden, Managing Director overseeing "Daniel Roth" and "Gerald Genta."