Stuart Sklar has been named the new president of Maurice Lacroix USA, headquartered in Encino, Calif., effective Sept. 15. Maurice Lacroix USA is the U.S. subsidiary and distributor of the upscale Swiss watch brand. He replaces Robert Siragusa, who introduced the brand into the United States in 1994 and left the operation in August.

Sklar has held key positions in sales and management in the watch industry for the last 15 years, including the Movado Group, where he was senior vice president of Concord Watch Co., and ESQ Watch Co. He began his career with the Movado Group as a midwest sales executive for the Piaget, Corum and Movado watch brands.

Sklar has “a proven track record of profitable sales growth and operational excellence that he brings to Maurice Lacroix USA,” stated Philippe C. Merk, CEO of the Maurice Lacroix S.A., Zurich, Switzerland. With the U.S. operation poised for “tremendous growth in the coming years,” he added, “we’re pleased Mr. Sklar will lead the charge in further building and establishing our brand in the United States market.”

In his own letter to the brand’s U.S. retailers, Sklar said there is “a tremendous opportunity for both Maurice Lacroix and our strong distribution network to continue growing a healthy retail luxury timepiece business together.” He noted there would be “many positive changes over the next 6 months” that would benefit their business and “illuminate the Maurice Lacroix brand to the luxury watch consumer.” They include “elevating the brand with a worldwide marketing and advertising campaign [including the U.S.] for the Fall season.” In addition, he promised to maintain “the highest level of professionalism and service from our regional managers, timely deliveries to our retailers, attractive and useful point-of-sale materials, beautiful displays, and impactful, consistent training.”

The brand is also launching new models and collections in the United States, including the women’s diamond Selena series, the Masterpiece Phase de Lune Dame (the brand’s first mechanical “Masterpiece” watch for women), and the Masterpiece Phase de Lune Tonneau.

Maurice Lacroix S.A., established 28 years ago, is one of the few remaining independent Swiss watch manufacturers. Its timepieces are sold in over 4,000 selected specialty shops in 45 countries, including more than 400 U.S. jewelers.

JCK