Inside Frederique Constant CEO Niels Eggerding's Pursuit to Preserve Affordability Amid High-End Horology Aspirations

Niels Eggerding, the CEO of Frederique Constant and sister marque Alpina, in an exclusive podcast, elucidates his challenging mission of upholding the company’s value-driven approach while offering high horology. Since 2018, he’s been in the helm displaying a deft hand at navigating trials and victories. His tenure has introduced more exclusive collections to the brand, including perpetual calendars, tourbillons, and entered into esteemed collaborations. At the same time, over 90% of the brand’s production volumes still belong to their value-priced watches. Clashing economic factors like rising production costs, a strong Swiss franc, and the imposition of US tariffs, have rendered the task even more complex. Eggerding is seized with the task of upholding FC’s reputation as an affordable high-end watchmaker, all while ensuring returns for their Japanese owner, Citizen. His exhaustive understanding of the field is apparent in his nuanced approach to balance these facets. His exciting plans for the brand combined with a close eye on economic trends are critical as he steers forward. Despite the pressures, he remains committed to keep Frederique Constant’s perpetual calendar under $10,000, a testament to the brand’s commitment to its consumers.