Firstly we should say that we are talking about a single shareholder, which greatly facilitates the decision-making process, who is implementing a long-term vision, and who has also gained a swift grasp of the watchmaking industry. At the end of 2012, MCT was the first pawn placed on the watchmaking chessboard of Cage Holding, which has since continued its acquisitions, notably an assembly workshop and the company that designed our first caliber. This strategy of achieving vertically integrated production is continuing with several opportunities currently being examined, all aimed at making MCT a completely integrated Manufacture. In 14 months we have changed from a microstructure to a small group employing more than 40 people.
What advantages does this vertical integration bring ?
Firstly, MCT is no longer dependent on sub-contractors suppliers for movement supplies, which is essential today. This facilitates our development potential, and improves both our responsiveness and our time to market. In terms of image, it is also very rewarding to be able to claim Manufacture status, which also reassures our retail partners because this represents an immediate guarantee of reliability and long-term security. The proximity of our shareholder, who is involved in day-to-day management, also helps us accelerate timelines. The best example undoubtedly lies in the presentation at Baselworld of our first automatic caliber, which was entirely designed and created in-house. The synergies between our different entities and the partially industrialized processes implemented by our center of expertise resulted in the creation of this first automatic caliber in barely more than a year, which is quite an achievement. We already have more than ten or so studies in our pipeline of complications based on our calibers – both automatic and hand-wound.
What sets MCT apart other contemporary niche brands ?
There are several niche brands with a strong visual identity, but which do not have control of their production facility and rely on sub-contractors to evolve or deliver on time, exactly the kind of constraints from which we have managed to break free entirely. The technical skill involved in our timepieces is perpetuated because it is developed in-house. This means it is a real source of value, as has already been proved by a number of brands launched since the year 2000 and which apply this production control strategy. MCT’s combined artisan-style and industrial spirit is reflected in the setting up of a specific department at La Chaux-de-Fonds, charged with defining the best equilibrium between traditional craftsmanship and the advantages of industrialization. Very few brands in our segment can claim to be this robust and to have so much potential. Collectors are increasingly better informed and thus take an approach like this seriously. Naturally, in terms of products, MCT’s offer remains absolutely unique and stands out strongly from everything else that exists.
In your opinion, what does the Sequential One bring to the market ?
A revolutionary approach to the art of measuring time! The dawn of the third millennium has given rise to a plethora of complicated mechanical watches with innovative displays, all of which have shaken up the traditional indication with three central hands.
How did the transition go with designer Fabrice Gonet last year ?
Fabrice Gonet understood perfectly what was expected of him and gave the Sequential One – S110 caliber a more modern, daring and industrial look in accordance with the design of a module which tells the time. He retained the case designed by Eric Giroud, but modified the appearance of the dial (or rather the module displaying the time) and adjusted the style of the movement decoration. The more contemporary style of this new collection presented at Baselworld 2013 was a big attraction…
How would you define your brand-new Sequential Two?
This is a great example of modern watchmaking, which successfully marries its contemporary technical content with the classic values that can be seen in its shape and finishes. In addition, it also has that duality that we find in the first model and unambiguously displays MCT’s instantly identifiable DNA. Over time we will see whether its personality proves to be even stronger than that of the Sequential One.
Where does bespoke watchmaking fit into your palette of products ?
Having our own production units makes the task a lot easier, and provides clients with an undeniable guarantee of reliable execution. Our Main de Maître collection is particularly intended for collectors seeking unique pieces. We partner with artists in order to endow these dream timepieces with another whole dimension. For example, Sylvain Bettex or master-watchmaker Stéphane Widmer have enhanced the S100 with variations featuring materials that transform our Sequential One. These highly advanced customized interpretations are developed following discussions with the most demanding clients.
What will the next steps be in your opinion ?
We currently have two collections and two calibers, a range that we will continue to round out while increasing the rate of growth. The strength of design will remain intrinsically bound up with MCT’s development. In 2015, our vertical integration strategy will reach its cruising speed and yield its first tangible effects. We are going to expand the product range with a price pyramid ranging between CHF 40,000 and 200,000. From a production capacity of 150 units 2014, we expect to triple this volume within the next five years and are aiming for 700 units per annum in 10 years’ time.
Kristina ambartsumyan President of the board and representative of Cage Holding, sole shareholder of MCT
François Candolfi, CEO of MCT
