The Swiss horological landscape is witnessing a significant transition as Pierre Jacques prepares to step back from his executive duties as CEO of De Bethune this summer. After an impressive fifteen-year tenure steering one of independent watchmaking's most revered houses, Jacques is shifting gears to pursue fresh endeavors while maintaining his connection to the brand as Honorary President.
This isn't your typical corporate shuffle. Jacques has been instrumental in transforming De Bethune from a promising independent into a genuine force within Swiss Haute Horlogerie circles. His appointment as CEO in 2011 couldn't have come at a better time—that very year saw De Bethune claim the coveted Aiguille d'Or at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève—, cementing a decade of boundary-pushing innovation that collectors had been quietly watching unfold.
The real magic happened when Pierre Jacques assumed Board leadership in 2015, injecting fresh energy into an already dynamic brand. Working hand-in-hand with co-founder and master watchmaker Denis Flageollet, he's managed to expand De Bethune's global footprint while never compromising the visionary spirit that makes these timepieces so compelling for serious collectors.
Reflecting on his tenure, Pierre Jacques shared: “Fifteen intense and deeply fulfilling years—an extraordinary chapter of my life. I am proud of what De Bethune has become and profoundly grateful to Denis for everything we’ve built together. Our majority shareholder, The 1916 Company remains firmly commited to De Bethune’s vision, continuously investing in alignment with Denis’ guidance and the best interests of all our employees. We are preparing a smooth and thoughtful transition, and I am excited for both the De Bethune team and the brand’s promising next chapter.”
Jacques' strategic vision extends far beyond typical business growth. He's been the architect behind securing the manufacture's future in Sainte Croix, fostering partnerships with the world's most discerning retailers, and championing those one-off bespoke pieces that make collectors' hearts race. Perhaps most significantly, he orchestrated the management buyout that aligned like-minded shareholders with the brand's long-term vision.
The 2021 alliance with WatchBox—now The 1916 Company—stands as perhaps Jacques' most forward-thinking move, tapping into the evolving luxury watch market while accelerating De Bethune's trajectory. As he transitions to his new role, collectors can expect the seamless handover he's planning with Flageollet and Executive Chairman Justin Reis to maintain the innovative momentum that defines this exceptional manufacture.
Justin Reis, Executive Chairman, added: “This transition is guided by a shared sense of trust and continuity. We are grateful to Pierre for remaining Honorary President to support this next chapter, working alongside Denis and the team to ensure the De Bethune constellation continues to shine. Representing the majority shareholder, we are excited for the brand’s future and remain deeply invested and committed to Denis and De Bethune’s long term success. The future has never been brighter for De Bethune.”
For the collecting community, this represents continuity rather than disruption—exactly what you'd hope for from a brand that consistently has delivered horological excellence.
Denis Flageollet, co-founder and master watchmaker, remains fully engaged at De Bethune, affirming his ongoing dedication: “My close collaboration with Pierre over the past fifteen years has helped shape De Bethune into a truly singular brand. I will continue the journey with a focus on strengthening our in-house expertise, passing on our know-how, and staying true to our mission: to innovate, to create, and to inspire.”
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