Nicolas Hayek 1928-2010 - 06.28.10

It is with deep sadness that we report the unexpected passing from heart failure of Nicolas Hayek—the visionary founder of the Swatch Group and the man credited as the savior of the Swiss watch industry. In his years running the Swatch Group, Hayek developed a well-deserved reputation as one of Switzerland’s foremost business leaders. Mr. Hayek passed away while working at his beloved Swatch Group. He was 82.

Nicolas Hayek entered the Swiss watch industry at a time when many brands had been reduced to almost forgotten names, shells of their former glory. Going against conventional thinking, Hayek saw the potential of Swiss watchmaking to succeed once again at a time when few were optimistic about future.
Over the years, Hayek launched or relaunched numerous watch brands, from the affordable and accessible Swatch to ultra-high-end marques Breguet and Blancpain. What each brand had in common was its remarkable success, which began as a direct result of Nicolas Hayek’s passionate and devoted leadership.
Nicolas Hayek is survived by his two children, Nick and Nayla Hayek. Nick Hayek is the Swatch Group’s current CEO, and Nayla Hayek sits on Swatch Group’s board.