WATCH this SPACE

Unconventional designer and diamond skull enthusiast PHILIPP PLEIN catches up with MAXIM to talk about the launch of his first timepiece collection, the Megan Fox campaign and the world of luxury post-COVID...

- REILLY SULLIVAN

Philipp Plein — the German-born, Swiss-based reigning rule breaker of fashion — continues to make serious business moves. Famed for his loud, unashamedly glamorous clothing, Plein has carved out a niche catering to cashed-up customers all around the world. His fashion shows, the ones before COVID anyway, resemble rock concerts and mostly serve as an excuse to stage an epic after-party. Most impressively, PHILIPP PLEIN is one of the few luxury brands to have grown a significant international business without the backing of a major conglomerate. “We are one of the last remaining independent luxury groups because people like what we do and what we are,” he tells us.

The occasion is the imminent launch of a PHILIPP PLEIN watch line, the newest licence for his ever-growing lifestyle brand. “Why not?” Plein asks rhetorically when queried on the decision to add watches to his collection. “Our customers have very high expectations season after season. PHILIPP PLEIN is not a boring brand and surprising our customers is our main goal. I have a passion for wristwatches so I decided to launch my own collection.” Plein has partnered with watch behemoth Timex to create the range. “It has been very emotional and I can’t wait to see the reaction of our customers and of the market. We are very positive and we are sure they will love it,” he adds.