JC Biver and Ben Küffer on The New Norqain Wild One

A couple of days in the past, Norqain introduced its newest watch, the brand new Wild ONE. The launch supplied the chance to current NORTEQ, a brand new materials. The large information with this carbon fibre composite is that it may be mass-dyed, making it an ideal answer to craft vibrant, rugged sports activities watches. The entire challenge was sparked by watch business veteran Jean-Claude Biver, Advisor to the Board of Norqain. Throughout the launch in Zermatt, we sat down with the younger CEO of the model, Ben Küffer, and Jean-Claude Biver to grasp how their collaboration works.

Xavier Markl, MONOCHROME – Norqain has come a great distance in simply 4 years. The launch of the Wild ONE is a vital step for the model. Are you able to inform us about it?

Ben Küffer, CEO of Norqain – It’s a big step for the model. The challenge began two years in the past once I met Jean-Claude Biver. Norqain had an incredible begin however within the midst of the pandemic, I began desirous about our future. I used to be put in contact with Jean-Claude by a mutual pal, and really quickly, we had a dialog. Jean-Claude needs to assist the younger era. The truth is, he challenged me, telling me that we had created an incredible base at Norqain, that this was an incredible first step the place many individuals fail, however that it was now time to grow to be the challenger model, that it was time to put money into product and innovation. I requested him if he would assist us, and he answered right away: “In fact, however I wish to know what you’re going to do.” A couple of weeks later, I informed him I had an fascinating thought for a brand new materials; the Wild ONE is the results of this primary assembly.

How was this modern materials developed?

Jean-Claude Biver, Advisor to the Board for Norqain – The thought was to discover a provider that might present new supplies by way of resistance, weight, and hues… we thought the perfect provider could be Biwi. They’ve performed an important position and made issues potential. You’ll be able to have concepts, however it’s essential to additionally realise them. Biwi understood our wants, and our temporary and took the problem.

After which the whole lot began. We had the form of the case, and the fabric; we had the engine with the Kenissi motion, which is one other fascinating asset.

Ben Küffer – it was additionally important for us to be 100% Swiss-made. Jean-Claude continually challenges us to go for the perfect options. His phrase is all the time “zero compromises no matter we do.” His consideration to element is exceptional. Simply have a look, for example, at these screws that observe the form of the lugs completely.

Did you employ the Independence case to create the Wild ONE?

Ben Küffer – We stored the concept of the case. Jean-Claude instantly informed us that the Independence was a winner; it was obtainable in metal, and we needed to deliver it to the subsequent stage.

The Wild ONE could be very completely different from an Independence case: there’s this 25-piece building, the 2 ranges, the bumpers, the strap is built-in… the ergonomics are unbelievable. Should you put the watch on, it feels prefer it was meant to be in your wrist. Everyone says it matches completely on the wrist.

What in regards to the dial?

Ben Küffer – The dial is made by Montremo in La Chaux-de-Fonds. There once more, the concept was to do one thing that had by no means been carried out. With the experience of Montremo, we created a three-layer, laser-cut 3D dial. It actually provides the watch a particular contact.

Jean-Claude Biver – certainly, this isn’t a watch that might be straightforward to repeat!

Ben Küffer – The preliminary suggestions is great. We needed individuals to see how a lot has gone into the creation of this watch however at a worth that also matches Norqain. That is our flagship product. 4 years after the model was launched, we’re actually making an enormous assertion.

This can be a huge step for Norqain; what’s the subsequent one?

Jean-Claude Biver – Consolidation. After such an enormous step, you want consolidation. It’s essential enhance on all types of particulars that folks may not see however that can make a distinction ultimately.

You’ve a playground for creativity with the Wild ONE, significantly by way of colors. Can we count on new actions? 

Ben Küffer – Sure. The Wild ONE relies on a container defending the motion. We are able to play with it. If we make the container slimmer, there are compromises concerning water-resistance. However sure, we are able to work with completely different actions.

How is your distribution community rising? 

Ben Küffer – We could have 200 shops in 30 completely different nations by the tip of the 12 months. We attempt to construct partnerships with strategic companions to have the ability to present the best service. This 12 months our progress is 130%, which could possibly be unhealthy – we now have to watch out that we are able to nonetheless supply the perfect service. Norqain has grow to be profitable as a result of we provide glorious service and deal with individuals the best means. We must be there for our companions. Our precedence is to assist our retailers and our shoppers. That is consolidation, identical to Jean-Claude talked about.

Jean-Claude Biver, you might be launching your personal model along with your son. You’re supporting the younger Norqain workforce. Is there a theme right here about passing one thing on to the subsequent era?

Jean-Claude Biver – My son is 22. He’s working with me, and the concept is to create a model from scratch and to grasp even the invisible components of a watch by ending each single a part of the motion, together with the screws hidden contained in the motion. Issues are carried out in probably the most conventional means. We have now a preliminary meeting for classy actions; then, they’re taken aside and cleaned earlier than being assembled once more (montage à blanc). That is the final word luxurious, the final word consideration to element. 

The distinction with Norqain could be very small. There is identical consideration to element however for a distinct sort of watches; it’s what we had been saying in regards to the screws affixed to the lugs earlier. Conceptually, we observe very a lot the identical route.

My son is youthful than Ben. He’s simply 22. I’m telling him to rent individuals his age. He typically tells me, “nicely, Dad, we can’t rent solely individuals of their early 20s.” However sure, I wish to work with younger individuals and move one thing on. What can I move on to somebody who’s 50 years outdated? I wish to give again.

What topics do you discuss with Ben and the Norqain workforce?

Jean-Claude Biver – I talk about something they need. Any query is open. I’m an Advisor of the Board; I’m not a Member of the Board. I feel a board typically wants recommendation from the surface. It provides me far more freedom.

Ben Küffer – Think about what it means for me to have this spine. I’m 34 years outdated. Once we began, we had been 5 individuals; now we’re 50. I’m managing Norqain with little expertise and loads of ardour. When I’ve an essential choice, I name Jean-Claude. Like our partnership with the New York marathon. I known as him, and he informed me this was a “sure” partnership inside 5 seconds. I don’t have an issue calling somebody who is aware of higher than me. It simply makes us stronger.

Jean-Claude Biver – Ben has nice qualities. He’s passionate, open and curious.

Ben Küffer – We get alongside very nicely… we’re passionate, and have a optimistic mindset and perspective when dealing with issues. And most significantly, we’re having enjoyable!

For extra info, please go to www.norqain.com.