MLEB Holding, an independent family run group of niche brands, made news on the eve of Baselworld 2013. Edouard Meylan who gained attention as co-founder of Celsius X VI II, a mobile phone that gains part of its energy source from the same principals as mechanical watches, is now CEO of H. Moser & Cie, the newest part of the group.
Based near Zurich in Schaffhausen the company had gained industry acclaim and respect, but had been struggling before its acquisition last year by MELB Holding — see my interview during GTE in Geneva with former Audemars Piguet boss Georges-Henri Meylan, chairman of the group and father to Edouard (click here).
When the company, which traces its history to 1826, was relaunched a decade ago, website World Tempus wrote, “The new watches that have been developed by H. Moser & Cie. over the last three years add a hint of understatement to their traditionally classic/elegant appearance, and, entirely in keeping with the tradition of the establishment, utilize mechanical movements designed in-house and executed to the highest quality standard.”
With continued consolidation in the watch industry, MELB looks to take synergies with sister companies, including the also well respected Hautlence.
In a press release, the Wharton educated younger Meylan stated, “My aim is to develop H. Moser & Cie. as a benchmark brand and manufacture, whilst retaining the elegance and subtlety that has been integral to its success to date. In the long term, I hope we will become an alternative to the big watchmaking brands, while bringing a touch of ingenuity. Today, our team is in start-up mode with a dynamic, proactive approach.”
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