We’re talking about today’s most wanted watch – TechnoMarine – so wanted and desired that it is selling faster every minute. In the Philippines, it is exclusively distributed by Rafael Jewellery (2nd floor, Edsa Shangri-La Plaza Mall) and My Diamond (2nd floor, Glorietta 4, Ayala Center). Jeweler Raffy Florencio couldn’t believe his eyes when the first shipment of TechnoMarine was quickly grabbed by fashionistas and young executives.
"What probably makes it click is the diamonds in it, making it a good investment just like a jewelry piece," explains Raffy. "And then of course, it looks so young and modern, plus it was designed to endure the toughest conditions even under the sea."
It was Franck Dubarry, a sportsman with a taste for the good life, a love for the sea and a great appreciation for beautiful designs, who created TechnoMarine.
Designed to embody the best that life, sea and land have to offer, TechnoMarine was launched in St. Tropez, France in 1997. The TechnoMarine watch line began with one elegantly designed watch – a stainless steel chronograph with a translucent plastic band called the Raft. Innovative in design and superior in craftsmanship, the TechnoMarine Raft sold over 50,000 units during its first year in production.
As a result of the Raft’s success, in 1999 TechnoMarine set up its corporate headquarters in Los Angeles, California. The company soon spawned a full collection of diving watches – a combination of PU and stainless steel chronographs combining luxurious French design with unrivaled Swiss technology. Produced in a variety of bright colors with interchangeable colored bands, the TechnoMarine watches allowed consumers to combine fun, vivid creativity with quality craftsmanship.
In 1999, TechnoMarine developed and launched a breakthrough design, the TechnoDiamond. Cheered by the industry at that year’s Basel watch show and recognized around the world by sportsmen and luxury seekers alike, the TechnoDiamond was a truly unique innovation in the timepiece category. As the first original diamond chronograph, this fully functional diving watch and luxury accessory is complete with the signature TechnoMarine interchangeable gel bands and a carat of handpicked diamonds set in a stainless steel revolving bezel.
International recognition immediately followed and the TechnoDiamond became a favorite of celebrities. The celebrity interest and subsequent exposure sent the consumer demand for the TechnoMarine beyond the existing retail supply. Sales for TechnoMarine skyrocketed into the tens of millions almost overnight.
The TechnoMarine product line has grown to include more than 110 distinct styles while distribution has expanded to include retail outlets in six continents. From its original location in Los Angeles, TechnoMarine’s US headquarters has moved to Miami, Florida – a premium location for its proximity to both Europe, where all of the company’s research and development is done, and Latin America, where the new distribution center is located.
In 2001, TechnoMarine evolves even further as the company splits to include two lifestyle-focused divisions, TechnoMarine and TechnoSport. The TechnoMarine line includes more of the upscale styles, like the diamond timepieces, while maintaining the adventurous integrity of the TechnoMarine brand. The TechnoSport line includes trendier, funkier pieces for a younger, more creative consumer.