Private equity owners slash valuation of Swiss watchmaker Breitling
Financial Times
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Private equity owners have significantly reduced their valuation of Swiss watchmaker Breitling following a disappointing performance since its acquisition by Partners Group in 2023. The company was previously majority-owned by CVC Capital Partners, which acquired it in 2019 for $870 million. However, the sale to Partners Group marked a shift that has seen Breitling struggle to meet financial expectations.
The decline in valuation reflects challenges faced by luxury brands amid economic uncertainties and shifting consumer preferences. Despite its storied history as a leading Swiss watchmaker, Breitling has grappled with adapting to modern market dynamics. Factors such as increased competition from other luxury brands, supply chain disruptions, and evolving consumer trends have contributed to the underperformance.
This situation underscores broader risks in private
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Originally published on Financial Times on 2/22/2026