Following the success of Europa Star’s ‘80th Anniversary Portraits’ column that we ran in 2007, we have decided to feature an exceptional portrait section in this issue as part of our special glamour section. The particularity about these portraits is that there isn’t a man among them. From Germany to Japan, Italy to Australia, France to the United States and the United Kingdom to Switzerland, there are some incredible women moving and shaking the watch business. Europa Star’s network of international correspondents decided to talk with some of the industry’s most talented women to find out how they have succeeded in the male dominated world of horology.

Stacie Orloff grew up in the watch business. Her family owned retail jewellery stores in California and it naturally became her career. After stints with Gucci and Corum, Orloff is now the president of Bell & Ross North America.
“I love the watch industry, the product, the people, the camaraderie and the competition,” she says, her enthusiasm and engaging smile contagious.
Orloff says that the biggest challenge facing women is also the biggest cliché for women, “Fitting In.” “I must say however, on a personal note I’ve never felt this to be a great challenge for me.,” she explains. “I’ve often been told I’m like ‘one of the guys’. I take this as a compliment and not as an insult or personal affront to my own strength, quite the contrary. The challenge for women is to feel confident with who you are and what you believe in. Success has no gender. It does help to have a sense of humour and I try not to take things too personally.”
Orloff acknowledges that opportunities have increased for women in the watch industry. “It’s an exciting time for women in the industry now,” she says. “Watchmakers and manufacturers are rising to the occasion by developing more ‘complicated’ watches for women, thus solidifying women’s place in what was once considered a male only market and securing the growth of a new and important segment to the industry. Whether this trend becomes the overwhelming theme or moneymaker for the women’s market doesn’t matter. It has opened the door to a new way of thinking and to a new way of doing business. This will lead to continued growth and help create new opportunities for the future.”
As for advice for other women, Orloff says, “Be strong and stand firm on your own terms. Don’t be afraid to be tough or demanding. Most important, be fair and honest at all times. This will always serve you well and keep you at an advantage. And remember, respect is something you earn, not something you deserve.” (KWS)


Source: Europa Star October-November 2008 Magazine Issue