Greubel Forsey wants to ban leather from its bracelets

At the end of June, Greubel Forsey announced that it will completely eliminate animal leather from its straps. Starting January 1st 2022, 100% of straps will be crafted from high-quality plant-based materials. This is a first for the brand.

This decision represents a paradigm shift in the industry. The watchmaking brand does not compromise on quality and today, the Atelier is yet again reaffirming its convictions. Indeed, “the technical offer for plant-based straps is mature, and our clients are by nature forward-thinking and welcoming of innovation. We want to be in line with their world vision and we are delighted to write a new chapter of responsible and sustainable High-end Watchmaking” said Antonio Calce, CEO of the brand based in La Chaux-de-Fonds.

The Atelier’s specifications for the new plant-based straps are exactly the same as those for its leather straps. Its principle of pursuing exceptional quality is now being pushed to the extreme: aesthetics, durability, wear, resistance to water, ultraviolet rays, etc. It’s virtually impossible to differentiate between a plant-based strap and its leather predecessor by look and feel.

Several color variations will be available. The same will apply to buckles: with a folding clasp or pin buckle, depending on the model and on the demand. This is yet another innovation, as high-end plant-based straps with a folding clasp did not yet exist in Fine Watchmaking.

This eco-responsible initiative will not remain isolated as the workshop is working on new developments along the same lines.

July 01, 2021