Ebel....

So word around the campfire is that a major announcement is due from/regarding Ebel in the "not-too-distant future".

As many may already know, Ebel in their infinite wisdom decided to sell their chronograph to Ulysse Nardin.  So now, the word bubbling in and around the valleys is that another "big" announcement from Ebel is imminent.  With Mr. Hoffman the proud owner of Ebel's chronograph, and perhaps ready to finally move UN forward after the passing of it's patriarch, my money would be on perhaps a few possible outcomes:

Although I am not a betting man, my first marker would be put on UN buying Ebel from Movado.  Although nobody is talking, my suspicion is that there is enough money in the "war chest" to at least partially fund this.  Ebel could still go on, sharing technology with UN - there is still a market there, and   no offense Movado - you never really took advantage of this.

But then, as Gordon Gekko would have said - "Bright, but not bright enough Sherlock.  Let's move the pieces around..."

A more realistic bet would be the same folks from China who currently own Eterna and now Corum.  It makes sense.  Eterna for calibers, Corum for FLASH, and Ebel can round out the group.  Of course, Richemont or LVMH might decide that they want a taste.  It makes no sense for RIchemont, LVMH has now missed the boat several times.  Hublot is the crown jewel, and is devaluing by the day.  Zenith, despite having a fantastic CEO is still found on Ashford.com and other grey market Internet supermarkets dumping product.  So a now only semi-viable brand (which honestly should be INCREDIBLY VIABLE) might not be on their shopping list.  

But then what about our friends at PPR?  With the acquisition of Gucci, JR, GP and the rumors swirling about Richard Mille - well maybe Ebel would be some low-hanging fruit?  Keep in mind that any deal with Richard Mille will most likely not happen until next year as Mr. Mille has certain commitments that must be "settled" prior to any sale - if the reports from other sources are credible - and I see no reason why they would not be.  So maybe Selma H. will be wearing an Ebel in the not-too-distant future?

And this would leave Concord as the last remaining REAL watch brand in the stable.  So what is the play?

You may hear it somewhere else first, but I promise to report as soon as any news reaches me.

And as always, you are free to draw your own conclusions.