Breathing New Life into an Iconic Name: How Federico Ziviani is Steering Gerald Charles Towards A Promising Future

Gérald Genta, arguably the most talented watch designer of his era, was the brains behind a suite of timeless pieces and models for esteemed brands such as the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, Patek Philippe Nautilus, IWC Ingenieur, and Universal Geneve Polerouter. He made the transition from the design board to the company nameplate when he sold his namesake brand to the present-day Bulgari and LVMH in the early 2000s. Not one to rest on his laurels, Genta started another brand under his middle name, Gerald Charles, which was later acquired in 2003 by the Ziviani family in Italy. Until his demise in 2011, Genta maintained an active role as the chief designer of the company.

Since Ziviani’s takeover, the company’s production has soared from 200 to over 1,500 watches annually. Prices have risen correspondingly, averaging around CHF 27,000 per piece. Ziviani is deeply passionate about the family-owned business and is confident in justifying the steep prices for the brand’s timepieces. Today, Gerald Charles can be found in approximately 100 retail stores globally, continuing to build on the legacy of Genta’s design excellence.