It’s high time we highlight the women who are shaping the future of horology. From pioneering watchmakers to influential executives and daring designers, these 100 women are trailblazers in their respective fields who prove that when it comes to time, women aren’t just along for the ride — they’re driving it forward. Without further ado, we present 100 women across 12 industry sectors, starting with …

(Names have been arranged in alphabetical order)

Brand Leaders

Caroline Scheufele
Co-President, Chopard 

Chopard, a family business since the 1960s under the Scheufele family, has thrived in the high jewelry and watchmaking industries under the guidance of Caroline Scheufele, alongside her brother, Karl-Friedrich. Caroline Scheufele’s passion lies in pioneering designs and materials. In a separate interview, she once highlighted the revolutionary launch of the Happy Sport collection, celebrating its 25th anniversary, as a turning point. By pairing diamonds with steel — an unconventional combination at the time — Chopard redefined industry norms. Similarly, the brand’s innovative use of colored titanium in high jewelry had broken new ground, blending aesthetics with practicality. 

Reflecting on her journey in a male-dominated industry, Scheufele acknowledges the challenges she faced as a young leader. She said in a statement, “I had to work myself up to where I am today — at first it wasn’t easy. The watch industry is pretty much run by men … You always have to start with the movement, whether it’s a man or a woman designing. If more women could get involved, the products would have a more feminine touch, and we could move away from first making a man’s watch then adapting it to a woman’s wrist. We’re very unique at Chopard, our passion is both watchmaking and jewelry, there’s a great synergy between the two worlds.”

Catherine Rénier
CEO, Van Cleef & Arpels

When Catherine Rénier assumed the appointment of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Van Cleef & Arpels, it was a move that followed after seven years at Jaeger-LeCoultre, where she held the CEO role since 2018. A French national with over two decades of experience in the luxury watch and jewelry industry, Rénier has held various leadership roles within Richemont since joining the group in 1999. Her early career at Cartier North America in New York focused on retail development, where thereafter in 2003, she transitioned to Van Cleef & Arpels in Paris as Deputy Marketing Manager. She later spearheaded the brand’s expansion in Asia Pacific, serving in roles such as Commercial Director, Managing Director for Hong Kong and Macau, and President for Asia Pacific over eight years. 

Christelle Rosnoblet
CEO & Owner, Speake Marin

In 2012, Christelle Rosnoblet became the CEO of Speake-Marin, the brand founded by English watchmaker Peter Speake-Marin in 2002. The Rosnoblet family had a commercial stake in the Speake-Marin brand since 2008, but by 2012, Christelle Rosnoblet was sole owner, making her one of the very few independent women in the watch business. Over the last 12 years, Rosnoblet has overseen the second chapter of this independent brand, refining the brand’s identity and modernising it — for example, the iconic Piccadilly case, which still remains largely untouched in the Heritage pieces has been refined in the Academic and Openworked lines. Rosnoblet is also responsible for one of the brand’s bravest ventures, the integrated, sporty Ripples.

While it’s clear that Rosnoblet has had a significant role in the evolving design of Speak Marin, it’s her investment in the calibres that goes to show that the future of Speake Marin looks strong. Since 2020, Rosnoblet has been an investor in Le Cercle des Horlogers, a well-regarded movement atelier specialising in high-end complications that was founded in 2012, and supplies calibres to brands such as Jacob & Co and Biver watches. With this combination of mechanical expertise and a brand with a catalogue that gets better every year, it’s clear that Christelle Rosnoblet is a force to be reckoned with.

Christine Hutter
CEO & Owner, Moritz Grossmann

Christine Hutter began her career as a watchmaker, driven by a profound appreciation for mechanical timepieces. Her passion led her to honor Moritz Grossmann, one of Glashütte’s legendary figures, by founding a company in his name in 2008. As one of the few female CEOs to build a watch brand from the ground up, Hutter has guided the company through economic challenges, establishing it as a distinguished name in haute horlogerie.

Hutter’s vision for the brand centered on craftsmanship and innovation. Starting with a small team, she expanded the company into a fully integrated manufacture, developing all movements in-house and growing to a staff of 50. Under her leadership, the brand has remained true to its core of classic design while embracing customization and innovation.

Hutter is a staunch advocate for gender diversity in the watchmaking industry. At Moritz Grossmann, nearly half the watchmaking team consists of women, reflecting her commitment to hiring based on character and skill rather than gender. She expressed, “Being a female CEO is a challenge. I do not care about men versus women, but it would be amazing to have more women in the industry. If you look around, there is no other woman who has set up a manufacture from scratch. If you have more women in the watch industry, it would be different. If you look at our German region, half of our watchmaking team is made up of women. In Germany, it’s not a question, but in Switzerland it may be different. And we do not look at gender when hiring, we hire for character and the quality of the work.”

Ilaria Resta
CEO, Audemars Piguet

Ilaria Resta is a seasoned leader with over 26 years of experience who transitioned from the beauty and perfumery sector to take the helm of one of Switzerland’s most prestigious watchmakers. While a fresh name to the horological world, Resta’s credentials are impressive. She served as President of Global Perfumery at Firmenich SA, where she drove digital innovation and organizational transformation to expand into new markets. Prior to this, Resta spent 22 years at Procter & Gamble, where she played a pivotal role in building and elevating global brands across diverse segments. 

Resta’s appointment represented a significant shift for Audemars Piguet, signaling the brand’s intent to blend its watchmaking heritage with innovative leadership. Case in point: recent events spotlighted the brand’s introduction to hyper-feminine Royal Oak models, research and development of the Royal Oak Concept line, material innovation, and, but not limited to, the ongoing expansion of AP Houses around the world. Her proven track record in fostering creative excellence and driving sales positions her to propel the brand into its next chapter. 

Jasmine Audemars
Board of Directors, Audemars Piguet

The name Audemars is one of the most well-known in all of watches, but it’s easy to forget that the Audemars family isn’t one consigned to dials and history books; they’re still very much part of Audemars Piguet. In 2022, Jasmine Audemars stepped down after her 30-year tenure as Chairwoman of the Board of the beloved brand — over which time she helped steer the brand through crisis and opportunity, turning the oldest family-owned watch brand into the powerhouse that it is today. Interestingly, watchmaking wasn’t the only arena in which Audemars was a pioneer. Before taking an active role in the family business, she was a successful journalist, becoming Switzerland’s first female editor-in-chief.

In 1992, the then 50-year-old took up her board seat as the fourth generation of Audemars to manage the company, replacing her father, Jacques-Louis, in a lineage that started with Jules-Louis Audemars back in 1875. While Jasmine Audemars may have stepped back from the day-to-day business of Audemars Piguet, she’s still involved as Chairwoman of the Auders Piguet Foundation, which looks after the brand’s philanthropic programmes, as well as overseas the brand museum.

Nayla Hayek
CEO, Harry Winston

The Swatch Group is one of the most important watchmaking institutions, with a net worth north of 20 billion dollars, and Nayla Hayek is the woman at the heart of the business. As Chairwoman of the Board, Nayla, alongside her brother (and group CEO) Nick. Between them, they’re responsible for looking after one of the greatest empires in modern watchmaking, one assembled from the ashes of the Quartz Revolution by her father, Nicholas Hayek.

As Swatch Group Board of Directors Chair, Hayek is in charge of the group’s executive management and setting the direction in which the mighty Swatch Group sails. As if that wasn’t enough, Nayla Hayek is also the CEO of prestigious diamond jeweller Harry Winston and has been since the Swatch group acquired the brand in 2013. Outside of watches, Nayla Hayek is a noted breeder and judge of Arabian horses, as well as an accomplished professional rider. Nayla Hayek stands out as an extraordinary leader, fuelled by passion and commitment.

Influential brand leaders include …

Key Executives

Evelyne Genta
Founder, Association Gerald Genta Heritage

While Gerald Genta was busy creating some of the 20th century’s most enduring and iconic watch designs and building a brand bearing his name, his wife Evelyne Genta was managing the company — from sales and production through to developing new markets; Evelyne Genta was there, making it happen. She was also there when the Gerald Genta company was sold, and she moved into a career in diplomacy. More recently still, Evelyne has spent some time reflecting on the legacy of Gerald Genta, and in 2019 she (along with daughter Alexia) ensured that his legacy as a watch designer would be preserved through The Gerald Genta Heritage Association, which also aims to support emerging horological talent. Gerald Genta’s skill as a watch designer was legendary — the work of Evelyne Genta has ensured he will remain a legend.

Elisabeth Dufour
President, Fondation Philippe & Elisabeth Dufour

The name Dufour is one of the most sacred in all of Swiss watchmaking. Philippe Dufour is revered as one of (if not the) greatest living watchmaker. But while Monsieur Dufour is the man with his name on the dial, he’s got plenty of help. In recent years, the Dufour family has been a more visible and active part of the business. Elisabeth Dufour is well known for her role handling the family’s communications, and daughter Daniela Dufour is working at the Atelier. In 2023, Elizabeth Dufour announced to a crowd of industry insiders the formation of the Philippe and Elisabeth Dufour Foundation — a non-profit organisation with a mission to provide direct support and empower those in need across the world. Already the Foundation has supported training in Pero, provided medical equipment in Switzerland and educational support in Madagascar, to name a few. It is clear that Elisabeth Dufour is a driving force, not just in watches but in the wider world.

Influential key executives include …

Brand Communications

Catherine Eberle-Devaux
Watch Communication Director, Bvlgari 

Catherine Eberle-Devaux’s illustrious career has been marked by significant achievements and leadership roles, earning her a place on our little ol’ list of 100 Influential Women in Watchmaking. Prior to her current role, Eberle-Devaux served as Heritage Director at TAG Heuer, where she played a transformative role in preserving and revitalizing the brand’s legacy. She spearheaded the revival of historic collections, most notably the TAG Heuer Carrera, where her efforts ensured that TAG Heuer’s heritage became a cornerstone of its global identity. Eberle-Devaux’s expertise in strategic storytelling continues at Bvlgari, where she leads the brand’s communication strategy to connect iconic timepieces with cultural and historical narratives, leveraging her deep industry insights to enhance the brand’s global presence.

Jasmina Steele
Global Communications Director, Patek Philippe

With a career spanning over two decades, Jasmina Steele is a name to note at Patek Philippe. Under her guidance, Steele oversees communication strategies, reinforcing the maison’s position as a paragon of timeless elegance. Patek Philippe’s storytelling has resonated deeply with collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, cultivating a profound appreciation for the brand’s legacy and craftsmanship. Steele’s journey in the Swiss watch industry began at Cartier then at TAG Heuer, where she joined as International Marketing Director, orchestrating campaigns that elevated the brand’s image and broadened its appeal to younger audiences.

Influential communication directors include …

… and Virginie Chevallier, Head of Public Relations at Rolex.

Technical Directors

Anne-Gaëlle Quinet
Head of Complications, Audemars Piguet

Anne-Gaëlle Quinet began her journey with a background in mechanical engineering, honing her expertise in micromechanics and precision engineering. She joined Audemars Piguet in 2005, quickly rising through the ranks to lead the brand’s complications department, a role requiring unparalleled technical acumen and creative vision. She has overseen the development of complex timepieces, including the Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar and the Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon, both celebrated for their innovation and precision. Quinet’s contributions extend beyond technical achievements; she has championed the integration of modern technology with traditional watchmaking, while fostering collaboration among artisans and engineers.

Carole Forestier-Kasapi
Movement Director, TAG Heuer

Carole Forestier-Kasapi’s expertise in movement design is a reflection of over two decades pushing the boundaries of horology. Forestier-Kasapi’s journey began at Renaud & Papi, where she worked on high complications before joining Cartier in 1999. At Cartier, her influence was transformative, overseeing the creation of the brand’s most lauded calibers, including the Astrotourbillon and the Rotonde de Cartier Minute Repeater Flying Tourbillon. In her current role at TAG Heuer, she continues to innovate, spearheading the development of avant-garde movements like the solar-powered caliber TH50-00 and overseeing projects that merge precision engineering with modern aesthetics. Her contributions have not only driven technical advancements but also inspired a new generation of watchmakers.

Watchmakers 

Alcée Montfort
Watchmaker, Maison Alcée

Alcée Montfort, the watchmaker behind Maison Alcée, has carved a remarkable path. Under her eponymous brand, she debuted the Persée Alcée, a mechanical clock that allows clients to assemble it themselves, highlighting the concept of interactivity. Montfort’s career took a major leap with the brand’s debut at the prestigious MB&F M.A.D Gallery in Geneva, where thereafter her achievements continued to impress with Maison Alcée’s triumph at the 2023 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), winning the Audacity Prize. In 2024, Montfort further expanded her global footprint by launching a new retail space in Singapore, in partnership with The Hour Glass group.

Dr. Rebecca Struthers
Watchmaker and historian

Dr. Rebecca Struthers, a renowned watchmaker, historian, and author, was the first British female watchmaker to be awarded a Master Watchmaker’s qualification by the British Horological Institute. As co-founder of Struthers Watchmakers, a watchmaking atelier in Birmingham, she crafts bespoke, hand-finished timepieces that celebrate traditional British watchmaking. Struthers authored “The Watchmaker’s Apprentice,” a book that explores the evolution of watchmaking and the artistry behind it. Her unique combination of scholarly insight and practical expertise has made her a key figure in preserving the history of horology. 

Influential watchmakers include …

Retailers 

Chiara Pisa
CEO, Pisa 1940

Under Chiara Pisa’s leadership as CEO since 2018, Pisa 1940 has undergone a significant management restructuring to better navigate the dynamic retail landscape. This restructuring has seen the company divide its operations into specialized yet interconnected divisions, reflecting Pisa’s focus on growth, innovation, and customer engagement. A notable aspect of this transformation is Pisa’s decision to appoint managers under the age of 40 to key roles, signaling the company’s trust in youthful leadership. This move emphasizes Pisa’s belief in the energy and fresh perspectives that younger executives bring, embodying the philosophy of “together we grow stronger,” which continues to propel the family-owned business forward in the competitive luxury retail sector.

In 2014, Chiara and her mother, Maristella, introduced the first line of Pisa jewellery, “Lancette.” Four years later, the pair launched the PISA Diamanti jewellery salon on the top floor of the brand’s flagship store, marking another milestone in their expansion. 

Influential retail leaders include …

Artisans and artists 

Anita Porchet
Master enameller

Anita Porchet, widely regarded as one of the greatest master enamellers in Swiss watchmaking, having elevated the art of enameling, collaborating with prestigious brands such as Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, and Hermès to create intricate and breathtaking timepieces. Her work, characterized by vibrant hues, meticulous detail, and innovative techniques, is evident in the various enameling methods — including cloisonné, champlevé, and miniature painting — has redefined the possibilities of watch dials, transforming them into works of art.

In addition to her artistry, Porchet has been instrumental in preserving and passing down this delicate craft. Through mentorship and workshops, she has nurtured a new generation of artisans, ensuring the survival of this centuries-old art form. Her contributions have not only enriched the aesthetic landscape of Swiss watchmaking but also reinforced its commitment to artistry, heritage, and innovation, cementing her as a central figure in the industry’s cultural legacy.

Influential artists include …

Community & Events

Carine Maillard
Director, Fondation du Grand Prix d’Horlogerie

Carine Maillard, Director of the Fondation du Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), has contributed to transforming the GPHG into a leading authority that celebrates excellence in horology, showcasing the artistry, craftsmanship, and innovation of Swiss timekeeping to an international audience. Over the years, the GPHG has expanded its scope and influence, evolving from a local awards ceremony into a global platform that unites industry leaders, artisans, and enthusiasts. Through exhibitions and collaborations in major cities worldwide, Maillard’s contributions have aided in solidifying the GPHG as the “Oscars of Watchmaking” and reinforcing Switzerland’s position as a global leader in horological excellence.

Hind Seddiqi
Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, Seddiqi Holding and Director General, Dubai Watch Week

Hind Abdul Hamied Seddiqi exudes a presence that commands attention, blending authenticity and charisma with a quiet yet undeniable influence. As Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Seddiqi Holding and Director General of Dubai Watch Week, she has long championed education and inclusivity within the watch community, particularly in empowering women to appreciate the intricacies of fine watchmaking. Her leadership has been instrumental in shifting perceptions about women’s role in the watch industry, particularly in the Middle East. Under her charge, Dubai Watch Week has become one of the world’s most influential horological events, fostering a unique platform for collectors, enthusiasts, and industry leaders to exchange ideas and celebrate the art of watchmaking.

Influential community leaders include …

Public Relations

Marine Lemonnier-Brennan
Founder & Managing Director, 289 Consulting

Marine Lemonnier-Brennan is renowned for her transformative influence as a public relations strategist (or perhaps better referred to as a “Silent Forces of the Swiss Watch Industry”). As the founder of 289 Consulting, an independent PR powerhouse in the Swiss watch industry, Lemonnier-Brennan has earned her reputation for elevating brands and shaping narratives with precision and integrity. Her expertise has been instrumental in the success of iconic figures like Jean-Claude Biver, as well as brands such as Jacob & Co., where her strategic guidance helped them earn respect for their horological craftsmanship. Lemonnier-Brennan’s impact extends beyond big names, as she has also championed emerging talents like Hervé Schlüchter, cementing her role as a mentor and advocate for innovation in watchmaking. With a unique ability to transform perception and build prestige, she is often the first point of contact for industry leaders seeking to launch or reposition their brands.

Influential PR professionals include …

Auction Houses

Chabi Nouri
CEO, Bonhams

Chabi Nouri, who was recently appointed the Global CEO of London auction house, Bonhams, brings extensive expertise in luxury and retail, having served as CEO of Piaget for seven years. Before joining Bonhams, she was a Private Equity Partner at the Mirabaud Group and held key roles at Cartier during her decade-long tenure there. In an official statement, Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard, Bonhams’ Executive Chairman, praised Nouri’s brand-building expertise and luxury market insights, calling her a “perfect fit” for the company. Nouri expressed excitement about Bonhams’ heritage and innovation, emphasizing her commitment to enhancing its global reach and digital transformation.

Tiffany To
Head of Sale, Phillips Watches

Tiffany To’s contributions to the watch auction landscape has earned herself a reputation for expertise, innovation, and a deep understanding of horology. Her approach in curating exceptional collections and creating engaging narratives around timepieces has elevated Phillips to among the leading positions in the luxury watch auction space. By cultivating strong relationships with collectors, brands, and connoisseurs, To has been central to facilitating the sale of historically significant and unique timepieces. Her influence extends to shaping market trends, spotlighting independent watchmakers, and emphasizing craftsmanship and innovation. 

Influential figures in the auction scene include …

Journalists 

Ming Liu

Ming Liu, a distinguished watch and jewelry journalist, has carved a remarkable career her incisive writing and deep knowledge of the horological craft. Liu has contributed extensively to leading publications such as The Financial Times, where her features blend technical expertise with cultural context, bringing the art of watchmaking to a global audience. Through interviews with master craftsmen, brand CEOs, and innovative designers, she has shed light on the passion and precision that define Swiss watchmaking. Her reporting on sustainability initiatives within the industry has also been influential, urging brands to embrace ethical practices while preserving tradition.

Tracey Llewellyn

Tracey Llewellyn is one of the most influential voices in watch journalism. With a career spanning over two decades, Llewellyn’s keen eye for detail and profound knowledge of watchmaking has been instrumental in bridging the gap between technical craftsmanship and accessible storytelling, bringing the nuances of Swiss watchmaking to a global audience. Beginning her career in luxury lifestyle journalism, Llewellyn quickly carved a niche in the horological realm, becoming editor-in-chief of our very own Revolution UK. Her editorial leadership emphasized both innovation and heritage, earning her accolades for championing independent watchmakers and boutique brands alongside established maisons. 

Influential journalists include …

Influencers & Collectors